Health

A major transformation is on the horizon for Australia’s aged care sector—and it’s not just reshaping how older Australians receive support but also redefining the role and future of aged care workers across the country. On 1 July 2025, the Aged Care Act 2024 will officially take effect, ushering in a landmark reform that places older individuals—and their…

The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation in NSW is undergoing significant changes, with potential national implications. SafeWork NSW has initiated a public consultation period, open until 12 March 2025, to gather feedback on proposed amendments to the State Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017. The current WHS Regulation is set to be repealed on…

The Australian aged care sector is set for a significant boost this year, with eligible workers receiving a much-needed $1000 pay rise. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to address staffing shortages, improve working conditions, and ensure the highest standard of care for elderly Australians.  If you are currently employed in aged…

The Australian aged care industry is undergoing a transformative period, with the first historic pay rise for aged care workers taking effect on January 1, 2025. The Fair Work Commission (FWC) approved increases between 2.3% and 13.5%, acknowledging the critical contributions of aged care workers in residential and home care settings.   This landmark decision not…

The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, and its importance has only been magnified in recent years. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for healthcare professionals continues to surge, with Australia’s healthcare and social assistance sector expected to grow by 14.9% over the next four years. This expansion presents a wealth of opportunities…

In a bold move to reshape the aged care landscape in Australia, the federal government has announced a comprehensive set of reforms to improve the quality and accessibility of services for older Australians. These changes come in response to the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, signalling a new era…

The Department of Health and Aged Care and Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) have identified unprecedented challenges to Australia’s health workforce. These challenges encompass current issues and anticipated impacts that are reshaping the future of healthcare professionals nationwide.     Increasing Demand for Health Workforce  The demand for healthcare professionals in Australia continues to rise,…

In a bid to foster greater understanding and empathy among disability support workers, Advocacy WA, in collaboration with VALiD in Victoria, has launched a groundbreaking video titled “Stay Off your Phone!” The 15-minute video sheds light on the expectations of people with disabilities regarding the conduct of their support workers, particularly when navigating community settings.…

In a significant step towards advancing disability employment opportunities, the Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, has announced a substantial funding injection of $26 million. This allocation will support various initiatives to enhance employment prospects for individuals with high support needs within the disability community.  The funding encompasses several key programs, including the first round…

Following the groundbreaking decision by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) to grant aged care workers a substantial wage increase of up to 28.5 per cent, Brighten Institute Australia (BIA) reiterates its commitment to empowering the aged care workforce through comprehensive training and certification programs.  The long-awaited victory for aged care workers follows years of advocacy…