Curtin Heritage Living has announced it has become the first aged care provider in Australia to secure a new Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement with the Federal Government, which will allow a rapid entry and permanent residency pathway for Assistants in Nursing, Carers and Support Workers working in aged care.

The Agreements – announced earlier today – require aged care providers to enter a Memorandum of Understanding with an industry union, with the Agreement negotiated directly between unions and employers.

Read the story on the Labour Agreement Announcement

Curtin Heritage Living told The Weekly SOURCE that the organisation had already begun the process of setting up a standard Labour Agreement last year to help address its workforce shortages.

However, the operator learnt of the new aged care specific Agreements when it began negotiating with the United Workers Union (UWU) which had been working with the Aged Care Minister’s office – and was offered the opportunity to become the first provider to take up the new arrangements.

“This Labour Agreement is a win for Curtin Heritage Living, our valued workforce, and the entire industry,” said its Managing Director David Cox.

“Those who are eligible will benefit from access to secure employment opportunities in Australia, helping them to build a stable future for themselves and their families. At the same time, Curtin Heritage Living will benefit from a diverse and skilled workforce, which will help to ensure our residents receive the highest quality care possible.”

“From an industry perspective, we believe this agreement is a positive step toward addressing a critical shortage of skilled workers and will hopefully offer some relief to other aged care service providers. I would like to acknowledge the United Workers Union (UWU) for their initiative and their support during this process. The UWU have been instrumental in the delivery of an approved Labour Agreement, ensuring our workforce is informed and well represented.”