Australia’s aged care sector is booming. With a growing elderly population and a shortage of qualified local staff, care homes across the country are increasingly turning to skilled foreign workers to fill vital roles.
For job seekers looking to work abroad, care homes in Australia offer not only rewarding employment opportunities but also the potential for visa sponsorship.
If you’re a trained caregiver, nurse, or support worker interested in working in Australia, this article is your comprehensive guide to finding jobs with visa sponsorship, understanding requirements, and exploring career growth in the aged care sector.
Why Work in Care Homes in Australia?
Australia’s aged care industry is expanding rapidly due to its ageing population. By 2050, it’s estimated that over 22% of Australians will be over the age of 65. This demographic shift is driving significant demand for care workers in nursing homes, residential care facilities, and community-based aged care services.
Key reasons why this sector is attractive for foreigners:
- High demand for qualified care assistants, nurses, and personal support workers
- Competitive salaries and benefits
- Stable job market with long-term career growth
- Opportunity to receive employer-sponsored work visas
For many foreign workers, aged care jobs also offer the chance to gain permanent residency in Australia through skilled migration pathways.
Care Assistant Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Care assistants, also known as personal care workers or aged care support workers, are on the frontlines of the aged care system in Australia. These professionals provide essential day-to-day assistance to the elderly, including help with hygiene, mobility, feeding, medication, and emotional support.
Job Description:
- Assisting residents with daily living activities
- Monitoring health and wellbeing
- Supporting social engagement
- Collaborating with nurses and healthcare professionals
- Maintaining care records and reporting changes in condition
Requirements for Foreign Applicants:
- Certificate III or IV in Aged Care or Individual Support (recognized in Australia)
- English language proficiency (usually IELTS 5.5 or equivalent)
- Previous experience in caregiving or healthcare roles
- Police clearance and working with children/vulnerable people checks
- A caring, patient, and respectful attitude
Common Job Titles:
- Personal Care Assistant (PCA)
- Aged Care Worker
- Support Worker
- Community Care Worker
Average Salary:
Between AUD 50,000 to AUD 65,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
Do Employers Sponsor Visas for Care Assistant Jobs?
Yes. Many aged care providers are willing to sponsor skilled and experienced foreign workers, especially in regional and rural areas where staff shortages are more severe.
These roles often qualify for employer-sponsored visas under Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) subclass 482 visa or the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) subclass 494 visa.
Aged Care Jobs in Australia (with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners)
Beyond care assistant roles, the aged care sector in Australia also includes a wide range of professional opportunities, including registered nurses, enrolled nurses, clinical care managers, and allied health professionals such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists.
In-Demand Aged Care Roles:
- Registered Nurses (RNs):
- Oversee medical care and support for elderly residents
- Administer medications and create care plans
- Collaborate with doctors and families
Visa Option: Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) - Enrolled Nurses (ENs):
- Provide direct care under supervision of RNs
- Monitor vital signs, give medications
Visa Option: Subclass 482 (TSS visa) - Lifestyle Coordinators:
- Plan and organize recreational activities for residents
- Enhance social and emotional wellbeing
- Clinical Care Coordinators:
- Manage overall clinical operations in care homes
- Supervise nursing teams
Visa Option: Subclass 186 or 494
Benefits of Working in Aged Care in Australia:
- Government-supported industry with clear regulation
- Opportunities for continuing professional development
- Potential pathway to permanent residency
- Job security and social impact
Care Homes in Australia That Sponsor Foreign Workers
Several large care home providers and aged care organizations across Australia have a history of sponsoring foreign workers due to the increasing workforce demand. Many of these organizations operate across multiple states and have a reputation for quality care and staff support.
Top Aged Care Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship:
- Estia Health – One of Australia’s largest residential aged care providers, often hiring registered nurses and support staff.
- Bupa Aged Care – International brand with many facilities across Australia. Known to sponsor nursing and care roles.
- Regis Aged Care – Offers relocation support and visa sponsorship for eligible foreign candidates.
- Japara Healthcare – Regularly recruits overseas aged care workers and nurses.
- Allity Aged Care – Actively recruits for care worker positions with opportunities for sponsorship.
- Southern Cross Care – Present in several states and offers training and sponsorship pathways.
Regional facilities are especially likely to sponsor foreigners due to higher demand and government incentives.
Pro Tip: Apply directly on the official careers page of these organizations. Make sure to check the “International Applicants” section or reach out via email for visa sponsorship inquiries.
Australian Visa Options for Foreigners in the Aged Care Sector
Several Australian visas support foreign workers looking to enter the aged care workforce:
1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
- Sponsored by an employer
- Valid for up to 4 years
- Allows full-time work
- Option to apply for permanent residency later
2. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa – Subclass 494
- For jobs in regional areas
- Employer must be approved as a sponsor
- Leads to permanent residency via Subclass 191
3. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186
- Permanent visa option
- Must be nominated by employer
- Often requires 3 years’ relevant work experience
4. Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189 or 190
- Based on a points system
- No sponsorship required
- Suitable for registered nurses and highly qualified workers
Documents Usually Required:
- Proof of qualifications and experience
- English language test results (IELTS, PTE)
- Police clearance certificates
- Valid passport
- Skills assessment (for certain roles)
Where to Find Aged Care Jobs in Australia (with Visa Sponsorship)
To maximize your chances of landing a sponsored job in aged care, target these platforms and strategies:
1. Australian Job Portals
You can use the following websites:
- Seek
- Indeed
- CareerOne
- AgedCareJob
Use filters like “visa sponsorship,” “international applicants welcome,” and “sponsorship available.”
2. Direct Company Applications
Visit the careers section of major aged care providers mentioned earlier. Tailor your application for each role.
3. Recruitment Agencies
Specialized healthcare recruiters such as:
- Healthcare Australia
- Nursing Jobs Australia
- Skilled Medical
- Global Health Source
They often assist with relocation and visa support.
4. Government Skilled Occupation Lists
Check if your job title is listed on:
- Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
Skills and Qualifications That Boost Your Chances
Must-Have Skills:
- Compassion and empathy
- Manual handling knowledge
- Medication assistance training
- First aid and CPR certification
- Strong communication skills
Certifications That Matter:
- Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)
- Certificate IV in Ageing Support
- Basic Nursing Qualifications (Diploma or Degree)
- Recognized CPR and First Aid Courses
Consider completing a short course with an Australian Registered Training Organization (RTO) online or in-person to enhance your employability.
Salary Expectations by Role and Region
| Role | Salary Range (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Care Assistant | 50,000 – 65,000 | Entry-level, support roles |
| Enrolled Nurse (EN) | 60,000 – 75,000 | Requires nursing diploma |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | 75,000 – 95,000 | Most in-demand for sponsorship |
| Clinical Coordinator | 85,000 – 100,000 | Management-level roles |
| Lifestyle Coordinator | 55,000 – 70,000 | Focused on recreational activities |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for aged care jobs in Australia without Australian experience?
Yes. Many employers value overseas experience and are willing to provide training if you have the right qualifications and attitude.
Is English mandatory for care home jobs in Australia?
Yes. You must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores) to qualify for both the job and the visa.
What’s the best way to get sponsorship?
Apply to employers in regional areas and highlight your caregiving experience and training. Use healthcare recruitment agencies with sponsorship programs.
Can I bring my family with a sponsored care job visa?
Yes. Most employer-sponsored visas allow you to include family members in your application.
What are the chances of getting permanent residency through aged care jobs?
High – especially for nurses and care workers employed in regional areas on a 494 or 186 visa.
Final Thoughts
Care homes in Australia are actively looking for qualified and compassionate foreign workers. If you’re trained in aged care or nursing and meet the basic eligibility requirements, you can turn this growing demand into a life-changing opportunity.
Visa sponsorship is not just a possibility—it’s a reality for those who meet the qualifications and apply strategically.
Start preparing your resume, gather your documents, and take the first step toward your career in Australia’s aged care sector.