Entry and employment options
This section provides a summary of the range of entry pathways and employment options available in this sector.
Entry pathways
One or a combination of these options can support you to prepare for work in this sector:
- volunteering can be a great way to “test the waters” to see if this sector is a good fit for you. Some organisations also recruit from their volunteer pool. There are a range of websites (such as Volunteering Australia) that list volunteering opportunities in your area. You may also like to contact organisations in your area directly. It is also important to ensure you understand your rights as an unpaid volunteer by visiting the Fair Work Ombudsman website.
- work experience can also help you to determine if you are a right fit for this sector. It also allows employers to see how you fit into their business.
- training is another way you can prepare for work in this sector. Some roles in the sector may require you to hold a formal qualification, while others may just require licences (such as a first aid certificate) or individual training modules. Completion of the Certificate III in Individual Support will require you to complete a work placement which will build your skills and confidence in the work place. Refer to the "What training options are available for the sector?” section on the Explore care and support careers page for further information.
It is likely that you will need a Police Check for these entry pathways.
Employment options
There is a range of employment options.
In addition to regular full-time and part-time positions, casual employment is quite common in this sector as it enables employer’s flexibility to match workers with client’s schedules and preferences.
The sector also offers a range of traineeship options across both aged care and disability. For further information on traineeships visit the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways website or the Australian Apprenticeships website.
Preparing your application
This section provides tips and advice on how to be competitive for jobs in this sector.
Developing your “employer pitch”
Developing your employer pitch is a great way to consolidate your thinking on why you are a good fit for work in this sector. You can use your employer pitch to provide content for your applications, when you are speaking with employers, and during interviews. This document steps you through how to develop your employer pitch for this sector.
Preparing and tailoring your résumé
A good résumé, which is tailored to the specific role you are applying for, will help you to stand out from other candidates. Your résumé for this sector will likely look a bit different to your standard résumé, as employers in this sector want to see your relevant life experiences, hobbies, and interests, in addition to the usual résumé components, so they can identify how you match with their clients. Use these résumé tips and example résumé to identify how you can develop and tailor your résumé for this sector.
Preparing for your interview
Preparing for your interview will help you to feel more confident on the day. This document provides some general interview tips as well as a range of common interview questions that employers in this sector like to use to find out more about candidates, and determine if you are a good fit for their organisation.
Links to job vacancies
Employers in this sector use a range of jobs boards to advertise their vacancies, including:
