Aged Care Workers Demand Pay Rise

Australia’s aged care workforce is calling for significant reform—including a long-overdue pay rise. With rising demand, staff shortages, and wage stagnation, frontline workers say they need better compensation to continue providing quality care to our ageing population.

In 2023, aged care workers secured a landmark interim pay rise of 15% following recommendations from the Fair Work Commission. But unions and advocacy groups argue that more is needed to ensure staff retention, safe staffing levels, and sustainability in the sector long term.

Why Aged Care Workers Are Demanding Higher Wages

The aged care industry has long been under pressure due to low wages and increasing demand. Entry-level workers in residential aged care have historically earned well below the national average, contributing to high turnover and staffing challenges across the country.

According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, workforce shortages continue to affect both home care and residential facilities. A pay increase is seen as a critical step to making aged care a more viable, rewarding career path.

Key concerns from the sector include:

• Chronic underpayment of qualified care workers and nurses
• Growing workloads due to staffing shortages
• The emotional and physical toll of care work
• Need for funding to support better training and conditions

The federal government has already committed billions in additional aged care funding through its Aged Care Reform Agenda, but sector leaders say more targeted wage support is essential.

Australia’s Ageing Population: The Numbers Behind the Need

As Australia’s population ages, the need for aged care services is growing rapidly. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, by 2050 more than 22% of Australians will be aged 65 and over—up from around 17% in 2023.

This demographic shift will have major implications for the healthcare and social services sectors. The government anticipates a sharp increase in demand for aged care workers across home, community, and residential settings.

Workforce Shortages: A Looming Aged Care Crisis

The aged care workforce is ageing alongside the population. Many nurses and carers are approaching retirement, while too few new professionals are entering the field. Without intervention, this will leave a serious gap in care capacity.

Ian Yates, Chief Executive of the Council on the Ageing, has publicly warned of growing gaps in home care support and workforce availability. Home care services allow older Australians to remain in their homes longer—easing pressure on hospitals and aged care facilities. But these services require a trained, reliable workforce.

Opportunities in Aged Care Careers

Despite current challenges, the aged care sector is brimming with opportunity. Job security is strong, demand is increasing, and reforms are underway to improve wages, working conditions, and career progression.

Common roles in aged care include:

• Personal Care Assistant (PCA)
• Home Care Support Worker
• Enrolled Nurse or Registered Nurse
• Lifestyle Coordinator or Activities Officer
• Aged Care Team Leader or Facility Manager

Whether you’re starting your career or reskilling later in life, the aged care sector welcomes people with compassion, patience and a genuine desire to make a difference.

Explore accredited aged care courses to begin or advance your career in this growing industry.

Looking Ahead: Why Pay Reform Matters

Better pay is more than just a worker’s right—it’s a strategic necessity. A well-paid, professionally supported aged care workforce improves quality of care, reduces burnout, and helps attract and retain the next generation of carers and nurses.

As aged care continues to be a national priority, it’s likely that further pay increases and funding measures will shape the future of this vital profession.