If you’re passionate about making a meaningful difference as an aged care worker and considering a move to Australia, there’s exciting news for you.
The Australian government has introduced the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement. This program is designed to streamline the recruitment of skilled overseas workers in aged care, addressing critical workforce shortages while providing international professionals with rewarding career opportunities in the country.
This article outlines how the agreement works, who is eligible, and what steps you can take to get started.
What Is the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement?
The Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement enables Australian healthcare providers in the aged care sector to sponsor internationally qualified professionals in key care roles. The agreement is particularly helpful when suitable workers cannot be found within Australia.
Roles Eligible Under the Agreement
The initiative applies to several direct care positions, including:
- Nursing Support Worker (ANZSCO 423312)
- Personal Care Assistant (ANZSCO 423313)
- Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111)
Eligible workers can be nominated for two specific visa streams:
- Skilled Work Temporary (subclass 482) Labour Agreement stream
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) Labour Agreement stream
This targeted approach ensures that both employees and employers can collaborate under favorable and efficient conditions.
Key Advantages of the Labour Agreement
The Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement offers several benefits for overseas workers. It simplifies visa applications and introduces convenient terms tailored to meet the industry’s specific needs.
Terms and Concessions
Workers under this agreement receive:
- A two-year pathway to permanent residency via the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa.
- Priority visa processing for a quicker path to employment.
- No requirement for post-qualification work experience.
- English language concessions, especially for workers who speak relevant community languages, creating opportunities for culturally diverse care delivery.
- A minimum guaranteed salary of $51,222 AUD per year or the market salary rate, whichever is higher.
These provisions make the program highly accessible to skilled international professionals while ensuring robust support for those transitioning into Australia’s aged care workforce.
Preparing for Sponsorship
Here’s how you can prepare to become eligible for the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement:
1. Skills and Qualifications
- You must hold an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Certificate III or an equivalent qualification.
- Alternatively, if you don’t hold formal qualifications, you can demonstrate 12 months of relevant work experience or equivalent part-time experience.
2. Skills Assessment
If your qualifications or experience were gained overseas, a positive skills assessment is essential. Depending on your role, you need to contact the appropriate assessing authority:
- For Personal Care Assistants and Nursing Support Workers, reach out to the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC).
- For Aged or Disabled Carers, contact Community Work Australia (formerly ACWA).
3. English Language Proficiency
Applicants are required to complete an English proficiency test, with different thresholds depending on your scenario:
- A minimum IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent for general applicants.
- Workers employed by culturally and linguistically diverse providers who possess relevant community language skills may qualify with an IELTS score of 4.5.
Different thresholds may apply for permanent residency options, such as the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa, which requires an IELTS score of 5.5.
4. Visa Nomination by an Employer
Before applying, ensure your employer is approved under the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement. Once confirmed, your employer will nominate you for a visa under the appropriate stream.
What Aged Care Providers Must Do
For aged care providers to recruit under this agreement, they must sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with relevant industry unions. The MoU ensures that staffing arrangements meet ethical and industry-approved standards. Providers can connect with unions such as:
- Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF)
- Health Services Union (HSU)
- United Workers Union (UWU)
After establishing the MoU, providers can submit a labour agreement request to the Department of Home Affairs through their ImmiAccount.
Opportunities Await Caring Professionals
This agreement allows international aged care workers to join an industry committed to delivering high-quality care while benefiting from robust support systems. With a direct path to residency, streamlined processes, and a welcoming environment, the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement is an excellent opportunity for compassionate professionals ready to make their mark in Australia.
Final Thoughts
Australia places a high value on ensuring dignity and quality of life for its aging population. By joining the aged care sector, you’ll have the opportunity to make a profound impact on lives while advancing your career. Whether you’re drawn to providing direct care, engaging in holistic support, or contributing to community integration, now is the perfect time to explore this exciting pathway.
If working in aged care in Australia sounds like the right fit for you, reach out to your potential employer or assessing authority to start your application process today. With the framework offered by the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement, your pathway to a fulfilling career in Australia has never been clearer.
References
For additional information, visit:
*This article is intended for general information and should not be construed as legal advice on the matter. Please refer to Home Affairs for detailed advice and information
