The Australian Government has recently unveiled the New Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement, what is this and what does it mean for potential Aged Care Workers  

What is the New Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement? 

The New Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement allows employers to sponsor international staff in occupations that were previously ineligible under different visa options. These occupations are: 

• Aged or Disabled Carer 
• Nursing Support Worker 
• Personal Care Assistant 

The agreement also has variations on English Language Skills, Work Experience, and market salary requirements to be eligible for sponsorship.    

How do I best prepare myself to be eligible for sponsorship under New Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement? 

To be eligible for sponsorship under this agreement you will need to meet the following criteria.  

• Obtain a positive skills assessment if you obtained your qualifications outside of Australia. This also applies if you claim work experience in lieu of the formal qualifications.  For a Personal Care Assistant (ANZSCO 423312) and Nursing Support Worker (ANZSCO 423313) you will need to obtain this from Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) https://anmac.org.au/aged-care-industry-labour-agreement-ila-direct-care-occupations . For an Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111) you will need to obtain this from Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) https://www.acwa.org.au/migrants/  

• Complete an English language proficiency test with a minimum result IELTS 5.0 or equivalent (vocational English).  Workers with community language skills who will be employed by a suitable culturally diverse aged provider need an IELTS 4.5 or equivalent .  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/english-language  

Aged and disability care providers will need to apply to access the new agreement to employ staff. Before accessing this labour agreement, employers must first enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the relevant industry union(s) and then be recognised by the Department of Home Affairs.  Not all Aged and Disability providers will be likely to access this opportunity. 

For more information on the Aged Care Labour agreement

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/skilled-migration-program/recent-changes/new-aged-care-industry-labour-agreement 

*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