Online disability and aged care support platform Mable and TAFE NSW have formed a partnership allowing independent support workers to obtain their Certificate III in Independent Support (Disability and Aged Care) through TAFE NSW - for free - while working in the industry.
Two groups of Mable independent support workers have already completed the courses, gaining the skills to navigate the complexities of the disability and aged care sector and providing specialised care to their clients.
Aged care and disability support workers are among the most in-demand jobs in Australia - and demand for the workers is only set to grow stronger. Forecasts put the required care and support workforce at 211,430 by 2025.
There are also increased requirements for their training. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety recommended that personal care workers hold a minimum Certificate III qualification.
Mable Chief Finance and Operations Officer Emma Clark said the partnership will mean there are more qualified support workers in the sector.
Emma Clark
“We are ensuring continuity in care arrangements as support workers can work with clients for longer by developing new skills as clients' needs change.
“Older people and people with a disability often need help with everyday activities, such as brushing their teeth, showering and toileting. However, these personal services require a support worker to have a Certificate III or higher.
“Independent support workers who have completed this course with TAFE NSW have found it extremely comprehensive and informative."
Independent support worker Camilla Mendoza (see main picture), 65, who provides personal care to clients through Mable, last year upskilled through TAFE NSW’s Fee-free Certificate III in Independent Support (Disability and Aged Care).
“I’ve loved completing the Certificate III course as it provided me with the skills I need to provide better care and support to my clients,” Camilla said.
