Just 11 aged care providers have an Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement in place – but hope is on the horizon.
Six months after the Federal Government launched the new Industry Labour Agreements with much fanfare, fewer than five visas have been approved by the Department of Home Affairs – but the Agreements are proving to be a successful workforce solution for the few providers with one in place.
In this week’s issue of SATURDAY, we investigate why many larger providers have dismissed the option of establishing an Agreement – and why the required Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the unions is also posing a barrier for some operators.
Despite these challenges, early indications are that the Agreements are paying off – with ‘phones ringing off the hook’. Perth provider Curtin Heritage Living has reported 2,000 applications over the six months, half from suitable candidates.
Operators reported significantly lower staff turnover and agency staff spend and greater loyalty to the organisation.
In a sector where turnover has traditionally stood at over 30%, that is a real win.
But the big benefit of the Program is the certainty that the Agreements are delivering to long-serving staff.
“Some of these staff have been working with us for 10 years yet still don’t have permanent residency,” said one CEO.
“If people have been loyal and done the right thing by our residents and the organisation, these deserve better than being on a temporary visa and not knowing what tomorrow will bring.”
There is also more hope on the horizon for aged care providers looking to fill workforce shortages with major changes on the way for the Government’s migration program.
Starting from 25 November, pathways to permanent residency will expand for all skilled workers.
Additionally, the Government is due to release its final migration strategy in early December, which is expected to completely overhaul the employer-sponsored program.
More green shoots for aged care.
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