As an experienced aged care worker, you’ve no doubt dreamed of taking your skills international and pursuing opportunities in Australia. The country has a booming aged care industry providing care to the growing elderly population. However, finding employer sponsorship for a visa can be one of the most challenging hurdles to overcome.
In this complete guide, I’ll reveal the step-by-step process to find sponsorship from an approved employer so you can receive your coveted visa and launch your career down under. By following these strategies, you’ll position yourself as the ideal candidate and dramatically increase your chances of landing a job offer to sponsor your visa application.
Let’s get started on your journey to working in Australian aged care!
How is the Australian Aged Care Industry Growing?
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Australia has an aging population like many developed nations. It’s estimated that by 2058, the number of Australians aged 65 and over will reach 8.8 million, almost double the current figure. This demographic shift is fueling exponential growth in the aged care industry as more facilities and care workers are needed to meet the rising demand.
The Australian government expects 230,000 new aged care workers will be required by 2050. This presents a tremendous opportunity for experienced international workers like yourself to expand your career and take advantage of Australia’s need for skilled professionals.
While the opportunity is plentiful, finding sponsorship from an eligible employer is no easy feat. You’ll need to position yourself as the ideal candidate by following the strategies revealed in this guide.
Let’s break down the process step-by-step:
Step 1: Get Your Skills Assessment
Before beginning your employer search, you must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority – in this case, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council (ANMC).
The ANMC will verify your qualifications, training and experience match the required standard for your nominated occupation in Australia. This proves to potential employers that you have the right skills and qualifications for the role.
I recommend starting this process early as it can take several months to complete. Ensure all your documents are in order and you meet the eligibility criteria before applying. A positive skills assessment opens the door for you to search for sponsorship.
Step 2: Research Approved Occupations
You’ll want to target occupations listed under the new Aged Care Award 2020 and Aged Care Industry Award 2010 if seeking sponsorship through the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa pathway.
Key roles in demand include:
– Personal Care Assistant (ANZSCO 423313)
– Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 421318)
– Registered Nurse (Aged Care) (ANZSCO 254415)
Conduct in-depth research on your nominated occupation using the Australian Bureau of Statistics and job descriptions to understand exact roles, responsibilities, qualifications and experience required.
This research will allow you to craft tailored, industry-specific language for your employer communications and applications demonstrating your strong suitability and subject matter expertise.
Step 3: Find Approved Employers
Only certain large employers have signed onto the Aged Care Industry Award/Agreement and are eligible to sponsor visas. I’ve identified five major companies who have recently signed:
– Curtin Heritage Living
– Fremantle Italian Aged Persons Services
– Penrhos Care
– CLC Group
– Uniting
Thoroughly research each employer online, learning about their history, values, services and geographic locations. Note any roles or areas that closely match your experience for targeted applications.
Step 4: Craft a Compelling Application
It’s time to put together the ultimate application package that will have recruiters clamoring to interview you.
– Resume: Highlight keywords from the position description, achievements in bullet points, and strong action verbs. Quantify your impact and results.
– Cover Letter: A personalized, 2-3 paragraph letter highlighting why you’re the perfect fit culturally and professionally using industry lingo and statistics learned.
– References: 2-3 glowing recommendations from managers/employers on company letterhead verifying your qualifications and character.
– Skills Assessment Letter: prove you’ve been deemed job-ready.
– Qualifications: Certificates, licenses, transcripts if needed.
Personalize each application package for the specific employer and role. Attach everything in one professional, well-organized PDF file for an polished impression.
Step 5: Email Your Introduction
It’s now time to introduce yourself to recruiters and hiring managers. Craft an attention-grabbing subject line like “Experienced Aged Care Worker Seeking Australian Opportunity.”
In the body, refer to your attached application materials and succinctly emphasize your top 2-3 most relevant qualifications that are an ideal cultural and skills match. Request a follow up call to further discuss your potential fit.
Be sure to:
– Address the recipient by name if possible
– Keep it to 3-4 concise paragraphs
– Use an upbeat, polished tone
– Proofread for any errors
Attach your full application packet and hit send. Now it’s time to wait eagerly for a response as you continue submitting to multiple approved companies simultaneously. Extra touchpoints like thank you notes after any interviews will help you stand out.
Step 6: Interviews and the Job Offer
With persistence, the right experience and an optimized application strategy, you’re bound to start receiving calls and interviews from interested employers.
Research the companies thoroughly so you can demonstrate in-depth knowledge of their values, history and industry trends during conversations. Be ready to provide compelling examples from your background that prove how you’ll add value from day one.
Emphasize your enthusiasm, work ethic and cultural fit for life in Australia.
With some luck, one approved employer will extend a formal job offer along with a sponsorship invitation to apply for the Temporary Work (Skilled) (Subclass 482) visa through them. Congratulations, your dream is within reach!
Time to Pack Your Bags for Australia
By following this proven process, you’ve optimized your chances of landing vital employer sponsorship for your visa to Australia. With your new job offer in hand, the final visa application and approval is the last hurdle before your international move.
With Australia’s booming aged care sector desperate for talented workers, motivated applicants like yourself have a golden opportunity. I wish you the best of luck in your exciting new chapter abroad – you’ve got this! Don’t hesitate to reach out if any other questions arise along the way.
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