Step-By-Step Guide: How to Get a Personal Care or Disability Support Job in Australia
If you’re looking to move to Australia to start a rewarding career that makes a real difference in people’s lives, personal care and disability support work are among the fastest-growing sectors in the country. With an ageing population and growing demand for quality care, opportunities are abundant — but landing your first role requires the right strategy.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to secure a job in personal care or disability support in Australia, including qualifications, skills, and practical tips for standing out.
1. Understand the Industry and Opportunities
Australia’s personal care and disability support sectors cover a wide range of roles, including:
Personal Care Worker / Support Worker – Assisting clients with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal prep.
Disability Support Worker – Providing tailored assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping with personal care, skill development, and social inclusion.
Aged Care Worker – Supporting elderly clients in home care or residential facilities.
According to the Australian Government Job Outlook, employment in these sectors is expected to grow strongly over the next five years, making now a great time to start your career.
2. Required Qualifications and Certifications
While some entry-level roles require minimal experience, certain certifications can significantly improve your chances of getting hired:
Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care / Disability / Home & Community Care) – Often the minimum qualification employers look for.
First Aid & CPR Certification – Essential for safety compliance.
Working with Children Check (if supporting minors) – Mandatory for working with vulnerable groups.
National Police Check – Ensures suitability to work in care environments.
Many training providers in Australia offer short courses or online programs that can help you fast-track your qualifications.
3. Develop the Right Skills
Employers value both technical and soft skills. Key skills for personal care and disability support roles include:
Empathy and communication – The ability to connect with clients and understand their needs.
Time management & reliability – Completing tasks efficiently while maintaining high standards of care.
Problem-solving & adaptability – Supporting clients with varying needs in unpredictable situations.
Teamwork – Coordinating with other healthcare professionals and family members.
Highlighting these skills on your resume and in interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
4. Gain Experience
Even small amounts of experience can make a big difference:
Volunteering – Organisations like NDIS service providers, aged care homes, or community centres often welcome volunteers.
Work placements / internships – Many training programs include practical placements that count toward real-world experience.
Casual or part-time roles – Starting in entry-level positions gives you exposure and helps you build your network.
Employers in this sector highly value practical experience, so even volunteer work can significantly boost your employability.
5. Create a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
A tailored resume is essential. Focus on:
Relevant certifications and qualifications
Experience in caregiving, volunteering, or support work
Soft skills such as empathy, patience, and teamwork
Professional references from previous employers, trainers, or volunteer supervisors
Your cover letter should highlight why you are passionate about helping others and your commitment to improving clients’ quality of life.
6. Where to Find Job Opportunities
Some of the best places to find personal care and disability support roles in Australia include:
Job boards: Seek, Indeed, Jora, and ethicaljobs.com.au
NDIS providers: Many hire directly for disability support positions
Recruitment agencies: Specialised agencies focus on aged care and disability support
Local community centres: Often have noticeboards or newsletters with job openings
Networking and reaching out directly to service providers can also increase your chances of landing a role.
7. Tips for Success in Interviews
Demonstrate your understanding of the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) and the client-first approach.
Share real-life examples of how you’ve helped others, showing empathy and reliability.
Show your commitment to ongoing learning, as the care sector values professional development.
8. The Benefits of a Career in Personal Care or Disability Support
Choosing this career path comes with many rewards:
Job security – High demand ensures stability and growth opportunities.
Flexible work options – Full-time, part-time, casual, or shift work.
Personal fulfillment – Making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Career progression – Opportunities to specialise, become a team leader, or move into allied health roles.
Final Thoughts
Landing a job in Australia’s personal care or disability support sector is achievable with the right preparation. By obtaining relevant certifications, gaining experience, and demonstrating empathy and professionalism, you can secure a fulfilling and rewarding career.
At Pure Care Adelaide, we specialise in supporting individuals who want to start or grow their careers in personal care and disability support, helping them access training, guidance, and opportunities across Australia.
Contact our friendly team of staff for more information on how to work with our team!
