How to Prepare for the Future of the Aged Care Workforce

The Aged Care workforce will need to triple in size by 2050 and with many providers considering the best way to retain and recruit staff at all levels, now is the time to explore what’s needed and what the future workforce will look like.  

I believe there are 3 key focus areas to consider as we prepare for providing and supporting the right staff to meet future demands in the Aged Care Services Sector, including:

  1. Employing individuals who are the right fit
  2. Building our workforce in rural, regional and remote areas
  3. Staff wellbeing and productivity

Employing individuals who are the right fit

Most roles in the Aged Care Services sector require people skills. This means a desire to work with people and the ability to get along with people. People skills are the tools you use to communicate and interact effectively with others. Individuals with strong people skills are able to predict behaviour, relate to others and interact with others easily.


In the Aged Care Sector I believe the following attributes are also important:


  • valuing helping and improving an individual’s wellbeing
  • genuine desire to make a difference to the health of others
  • liking variety and enjoying a challenge
  • being organised and working as part of a team


Many of these behaviours ultimately need to be observed on the job, which is why the role of reference checking is such a critical element of your recruitment process.

Building our workforce in rural, regional and remote areas

 Recruitment and retention systems must be provided to the workforce in rural, regional and remote areas, along with comprehensive support and professional development for staff.

 

Covid-19 has accelerated the acceptance of online learning and provides a greater opportunity for all Australians in more remote areas to access training and resources that may have previously only been available by attending conferences and in real life events. This learning and development trend is likely to continue and improve.

ACSA is dedicated to supporting the aged care services industry to have ready access to a range of practical and relevant Training and Professional Development options.


Communities also need to continue to review and develop their plans to provide a supported pathway into courses, scholarships and mentoring to attract school leavers and community members into relevant Aged Care Sector courses.


Staff wellbeing and productivity


Mentally healthy workplaces are as important to Australian employees as physically safe workplaces. However, the State of Workplace Mental Health in Australia report by TNS Research for Beyond Blue reported that workplaces are not meeting their expectations.

 

Key findings of this report included that only 52% of employees believe their workplace is mentally healthy compared to 76% for physical safety and only five in ten (56%) believe their most senior leader values mental health. The specific results for the Healthcare and Social Assistance sector are listed in the table below.

The survey found that when mental health is valued by leaders there are real benefits to the business:


  • mentally healthy workplaces are important to workers (91% agreement among employees, 89% among leaders)
  • a widespread perception that organisations that value mental health are likely to be more productive (72% agreement among employees, 71% agreement among leaders)
  • organisational leaders who focus on mental health in the workplace inspire respect among employees (65% agreement among employees).


Strategies and resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of Australian workers are now readily available and the opportunity is for leaders to support the mental health of their teams to ensure a productive and safe work environment.

Providing your staff with a Mental Health toolkit supports their individual wellbeing and the overall wellbeing of your business. The Mental Health toolkit from blackdoginstitute.org.au includes:


  • a complete overview of what mental health means
  • detailed information on stress, depression and anxiety in the workplace
  • best practice advice on seeking help and tips on supporting others
  • information on wellbeing and staying well at work
  • links to helpful videos, websites and online tools


This evidence-informed workplace mental health toolkit is a practical guide for Australian workers to assist in the understanding of common mental health issues in the workplace, and provides strategies and resources to support those who may be experiencing a mental health condition.


It is my hope that there continues to be a proactive move by leaders to provide both interventions and wellness programs to assist all of their staff’s wellbeing.


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We attended the Shoalhaven Disability Expo 2025

September 29, 2025
Health Staff Australia Going Places! Shoalhaven Disability Expo 2025 On Tuesday, 17 September 2025, we had an amazing time attending and showcasing at this year’s Shoalhaven Disability Expo at the Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre in Bomaderry. Now in its 11th year, this expo is the largest volunteer-run, not-for-profit event in the region, bringing together people of all abilities, families, carers, and friends for a day full of learning, connection, and fun. The expo was buzzing with over 90 service providers, engaging activities, and local community groups — and our stand definitely stood out! We had the chance to meet incredible people, make new friends, and connect with the community in a meaningful way. Every conversation, smile, and shared story reminded us why we love being part of events like this.  From meaningful chats with families and carers to connecting with other service providers, the day was packed with energy, inspiration, and a real sense of community. Our team brought their A-game, showcasing what Health Staff Australia has to offer, while having an absolute blast meeting everyone who stopped by our stand. A huge thank you to our amazing staff who made this possible — your energy and enthusiasm lit up the room! And of course, a big shout-out to the Shoalhaven Disability Forum for organizing such an inclusive and vibrant event, including the Quiet Hour from 12:00pm – 1:00pm, which made the day even more welcoming for everyone. We left the expo inspired, energized, and already looking forward to next year. To everyone who visited our stand — thank you for making it such a memorable day. Can’t wait to see you all again! Health Staff Australia is proud to be part of the Shoalhaven community , connecting, sharing, and supporting people of all abilities, their families, and carers — one exciting event at a time!
Each year, an estimated 720,000 people die by suicide worldwide. The impact is devastating — ripplin

Changing the Narrative on Suicide

September 8, 2025
World Suicide Prevention Day 2025: Changing the Narrative on Suicide Why World Suicide Prevention Day Matters Each year, an estimated 720,000 people die by suicide worldwide . The impact is devastating — rippling through families, friendships, workplaces, and entire communities. Behind every statistic is a story, a life, and loved ones left behind. This reality reminds us why World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) matters. On 10 September 2025 , people and organisations across the globe will come together to mark WSPD under the theme: “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” This year, the campaign is placing particular emphasis on accessibility, with resources translated into more languages so the message of hope can reach more people, in more places. As Professor Jo Robinson, President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), shares: “Suicide prevention is a shared commitment that unites us across borders, cultures, and communities. As we continue our journey to change the narrative on suicide, let us ensure our message of hope and understanding reaches everyone — in every corner of the world.” What Does “Changing the Narrative” Mean? For too long, conversations about suicide have been surrounded by silence, stigma, and misunderstanding. Changing the narrative means shifting towards openness, empathy, and support. It’s about making suicide prevention everybody’s business — not just the responsibility of mental health professionals. The movement calls us to action in several key ways: Raising awareness and understanding through open, compassionate conversations. Advocating for the decriminalisation of suicide and the development of national suicide prevention strategies. Taking action by checking in with loved ones, sharing stories, and participating in training. Ensuring that people in crisis areas have access to mental health care and protective support. Ways You Can Get Involved in World Suicide Prevention Day 1. Start a Conversation and Raise Awareness Online A simple post using #WSPD can help challenge stigma and spread hope. Free resources, posters, and videos are available through organisations such as Suicide Prevention Australia, Lifeline, and the International Association for Suicide Prevention. 2. Raise Awareness at Work Workplaces play a powerful role in shaping culture and supporting staff. Host an event, share resources with your team, or consider creating a wellbeing initiative that prioritises mental health in your workplace. 3. Reach Out to Someone If you notice a friend, colleague, or family member struggling, reaching out can make all the difference. Asking “How are you really going?” might be exactly what they need to hear. 4. Listen Well When someone shares their worries, listen without judgment. Don’t minimise their feelings or rush to provide answers. Sometimes, being heard is the most powerful form of support. 5. Rethink Attitudes Toward Mental Health Reject harmful ideas like “just get over it” or “toughen up.” Encouraging openness shows people it’s safe to talk about their struggles and seek help when they need it. 6. Encourage People to Seek Support Whether it’s through a GP, a counsellor, or a helpline, professional help can make a huge difference. Remind those around you that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

The Youth Is Needed

August 6, 2025
International Youth Day – Celebrating the Future of Healthcare Each year on International Youth Day, we honour the creativity, resilience, and potential of young people around the globe. At Health Staff Australia, we believe it’s also a powerful opportunity to highlight how youth play an essential role in shaping the future of healthcare in our country — from aged care to frontline nursing and allied health services. Young healthcare professionals are not just the future — they’re already making a difference today. Whether it’s through their work as Registered Nurses (RNs), Assistant in Nursing (AINs), Support Workers, Doctors, Occupational Therapists (OTs), or in countless other roles, young people are stepping up with compassion, innovation, and a drive to care. Youth in Aged Care and Nursing: The Impact is Real Australia’s healthcare landscape is changing rapidly, particularly as our population ages. This makes sectors like aged care and disability support more vital than ever. Youth who choose careers in these fields bring fresh energy, empathy, and a willingness to learn — helping to enhance the quality of care for some of our most vulnerable citizens. The nursing profession is the largest single health profession in Australia, and as the Australian Parliament notes, “workforce planning is critical to ensure alignment of nursing supply with demand required by the health system, to create a sustainable nursing workforce for Australia” ( source ). That means we need more young people to consider healthcare as a career path — and not just any role, but those in high-demand sectors like residential aged care, community health, mental health support, and disability services.