Tasmania targets future aged care workforce shortages

Tasmania is seeking to strengthen its aged care workforce through a new Industry Skills Compact signed between the Tasmanian Government and Ageing Australia.

The agreement is designed to improve workforce pathways into the sector, support existing workers and better connect employers, training organisations and jobseekers as demand for aged care services continues to increase.

Skills and Jobs Minister Felix Ellis said the initiative would help attract more people to the sector while supporting long-term careers in aged care.

“Around 36,000 Tasmanians currently receive aged care support services, and with the number set to grow significantly in coming years, we need more people entering the workforce, and more support for those already in it,” he said.

“This Compact is about making it easier to get a job in the aged care sector, stay in the workforce, and build a meaningful career.”

The compact includes measures aimed at creating clearer entry pathways through traineeships and nationally recognised qualifications, while also promoting aged care as a career option and strengthening links between employers and training providers.

Ageing Minister Bridget Archer said building workforce capacity would be critical to meeting the needs of an ageing population.

“An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is giving people more choice, more support and better care as they age,” she said.

“The aged services workforce is at the heart of quality care for older Tasmanians, and this will ensure the sector has the skilled workforce it needs for the future.”

The agreement also includes initiatives focused on transition-to-practice support for nurses, home care workforce development and expanded traineeship opportunities.

“As our population ages, it is important that we continue to invest in training and workforce pathways that support both aged care workers and the Tasmanians who rely on them,” Ms Archer said.

The compact is the latest effort by the state government and industry to address future workforce needs as demand for aged care services continues to grow across Tasmania.