Work in Australian Hospitals & Aged Care – Visa Support and Free Training Offered

Australia’s healthcare sector is experiencing an urgent and growing need for workers across both hospitals and aged care facilities. If you’re looking to start a meaningful career with no previous experience, there’s good news—free training is available, and visa sponsorship opportunities exist for eligible candidates, both locally and internationally.

Whether you’re a jobseeker in Australia or an overseas applicant dreaming of building a better life, this is a rare opportunity to enter one of the most respected, stable, and rewarding sectors in the country.

Why Healthcare and Aged Care Workers Are in High Demand

An Ageing Population

Australia’s population is ageing rapidly. By 2030, more than one in five Australians will be over 65 years old. As a result, the demand for aged care workers has never been higher. The country requires thousands of new carers to support elderly Australians with daily activities, health needs, and emotional wellbeing.

Pressure on the Hospital System

Increased hospital admissions, growing public health responsibilities, and a shortage of clinical support staff have created significant pressure on hospitals nationwide. This has opened up opportunities for people to work in non-clinical roles, such as support workers, ward assistants, administration staff, and cleaners—many of which require no prior experience.

Post-Pandemic Workforce Gaps

COVID-19 accelerated the demand for health sector staff and exposed critical workforce shortages. While borders were closed, the supply of overseas workers dropped dramatically. With immigration pathways now reopened, Australia is again welcoming healthcare workers from abroad.

Entry-Level Roles You Can Apply For

The healthcare and aged care sectors offer multiple entry-level positions for people without formal experience or qualifications. Some of the most accessible roles include:

Aged Care Support Worker

Aged care workers assist elderly people with:

• Daily personal care (bathing, dressing, eating)

• Medication reminders

• Transport to appointments

• Companionship and emotional support

• Light household duties

This role requires compassion, patience, and good communication skills.

Hospital Support Worker / Patient Services Assistant

Hospitals employ support staff to ensure smooth operations. Tasks may include:

• Transporting patients between departments

• Assisting nurses with non-medical tasks

• Distributing meals and linen

• Maintaining a clean and safe environment

You do not need medical training, and on-the-job training is typically provided.

Disability Support Worker

Support workers help clients with disabilities live independently. Tasks often overlap with aged care duties but may also include helping with mobility aids and recreational activities.

Free Training Programs to Help You Get Started

To prepare individuals for these roles, many Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and community colleges across Australia offer free or subsidised training under government-supported programs.

Common Courses Include:

• Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability)
  Teaches the fundamentals of aged care and disability assistance, including manual handling, infection control, and communication.

• Certificate II in Health Support Services
  Designed for non-clinical hospital staff, this course focuses on workplace safety, infection prevention, and service delivery.

• First Aid and CPR Certification
  A mandatory component for most care-related roles.

Many of these programs are fully funded under state and federal government initiatives, such as Skills First (VIC), Smart and Skilled (NSW), and JobTrainer across various states.

Training typically includes both classroom instruction and a practical placement, allowing you to build real-world experience before applying for full-time employment.

Visa Sponsorship Opportunities for Overseas Workers

Australia’s immigration system recognises the critical shortage of care workers and hospital support staff. As a result, many of these roles are now on the Skilled Occupation List, making it easier for foreign nationals to apply for work visas.

Common Visa Pathways:

• Skilled Worker (Subclass 482 – TSS Visa)
  Allows employers to sponsor foreign workers for roles they cannot fill locally. Care workers, disability support staff, and certain hospital assistants are eligible under this scheme.

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189/190)
  Permanent residency options for workers with formal qualifications and work experience. Many health support roles qualify.

• Working Holiday Visa with Pathway to Sponsorship
  Some employers will trial international staff on a working holiday visa and later offer sponsorship based on performance.

Visa sponsorship is often provided by:

• Public and private hospitals

• Aged care facilities and nursing homes

• Community support organisations

• Registered home care providers

To qualify, you typically need:

• Basic English skills (IELTS or equivalent)

• Relevant training or willingness to complete it

• Clean background and health checks

• A genuine interest in care work

What Employers Are Looking For

No matter your experience level, healthcare and aged care employers look for the following qualities:

• Empathy and compassion

• Strong communication skills

• Reliability and time management

• Cultural sensitivity

• A willingness to learn and work in a team

If you have these soft skills, you’re well-positioned to enter the sector—even if you’ve never worked in a hospital or care home before.

Benefits of Working in Australia’s Healthcare Sector

• Competitive Pay
  Entry-level aged care workers earn between AUD 24–30 per hour. With overtime, weekend shifts, and holiday pay, income can quickly rise.

• Career Progression
  Begin with entry-level support roles and move up to become a team leader, care coordinator, or even pursue nursing.

• High Job Security
  The healthcare sector is one of the most stable industries in Australia, with long-term employment prospects.

• Visa Sponsorship & Permanent Residency
  Employers are often willing to sponsor reliable workers. After a few years, many staff transition to permanent residency.

• Work That Matters
  Healthcare and aged care roles offer real purpose. You’re not just earning a wage—you’re making a difference in someone’s life every day.

Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for:

• Young adults seeking stable, meaningful employment

• Mid-career individuals looking to switch industries

• Migrants with or without experience in healthcare

• International applicants looking for a visa pathway

• People passionate about helping others

Whether you’re living in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, or overseas, the door is open to join a sector that truly values compassion, dedication, and community service.

How to Apply and Get Started

1. Choose Your Path
   Decide whether you want to work in aged care, hospital support, or disability services.

2. Find a Training Provider
   Research local TAFEs and RTOs offering government-funded Certificate III or II programs.

3. Begin Training
   Many programs have rolling intakes and offer flexible schedules for working adults.

4. Apply for Jobs or Sponsorship
   Once trained, apply for open roles through major job boards, aged care providers, or hospital networks. If you’re overseas, look for employers advertising sponsorship.

5. Start Your Career
   With training completed and a job secured, begin building experience and moving forward in your career.

Conclusion

Australia’s healthcare and aged care sectors are urgently seeking new workers to support the wellbeing of millions of people across the country. With free training, entry-level opportunities, and visa sponsorship available, there’s never been a better time to join this vital industry.

You don’t need medical experience or formal qualifications to get started—just a willingness to learn and a desire to help others. From aged care homes to busy hospitals, employers across Australia are ready to welcome compassionate, dedicated individuals into the workforce.

Take the first step toward a meaningful, secure, and respected career. Explore training programs today, connect with employers offering visa support, and build a future where your work truly matters.