Here’s how to get started with a little help from a nationally recognised VET qualification!
You’ve probably heard that Australia has an ageing population, with 16% of the total popular aged 65 or older. But did you know this percentage is projected to grow to 21-23% by 2066?
It means we’re going to need more skilled workers to support this demographic, as well as the expanding disability sector. Cue the job opportunities if you’re someone who likes helping others and wants a meaningful career filled with rewarding work!
What to study
“Aged care and disability are two of the fastest-growing sectors in the country, and the demand for qualified, compassionate workers isn’t slowing down,” says Tony Koukoulis, VET Operations Manager at the University of Notre Dame Australia.
“A CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) gives graduates a genuine head start into an industry that needs them now and will need them for decades to come.”
This head start happens quickly too. In just 33 weeks of full-time study, you’ll be prepared to work in a range of settings.
“What sets this course apart is the balance between theory and real-world placement. Students aren’t just learning about care in a classroom, they’re out in community, home-based and residential settings gaining the confidence and hands-on skills that employers are actually looking for,” says Tony.
There are also opportunities to build knowledge in areas like dementia, disability, food and nutrition, and supporting people with complex needs, according to Magda Chaparro, trainer and assessor for the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability).
“Additionally, students will develop practical skills and strategies to support their own health, wellbeing and self-care, recognising that providing quality care to others begins with understanding how to care for oneself.”
Where can this qualification take you?
So many places, thanks to its flexibility! “Graduates can choose to work in aged care, disability support, or both, and many go on to build long careers that let them specialise or move into leadership roles,” explains Tony. “It’s a genuinely rewarding pathway for anyone who wants a career built around helping people.”
Some of the awesome careers you can land include:
- Personal support worker
- Personal care assistant/worker
- Personal carer
- Care aide/worker
- Multi-skilled support worker
- Support worker
- Disability support worker
- Community disability support worker
- Residential support worker
- Aged care support worker
The qualification can also be used as a launchpad into further study, including a Bachelor of Nursing.
“Students that complete the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) may progress to the Diploma of Nursing, which can then provide a pathway to the Bachelor of Nursing,” says Magda.
Bonus!
If you’re a WA resident, you can study the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) for free in 2026. Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions do apply, so be sure to check with Notre Dame’s VET team if you’re interested in going down this path. VET scholarships are also available and can be explored on Notre Dame’s Find a Scholarship page.
Learn more
Head to the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) course page on Notre Dame’s website to explore this qualification, learn about student requirements and get a summary of the core units you’d be studying.
This article was brought to you in partnership with the University of Notre Dame
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- Your next move: careers in health with Notre Dame Uni
- Choose a Vocational Education and Training pathway at Notre Dame
- Celebrating alternative pathways: The A-Z of VET
Images: Shutterstock
