Build your career as a Patient Care Assistant

health & community

Patient Care Assistant

A career as a Patient Care Assistant is a meaningful way to support those in need while gaining valuable hands-on experience in healthcare. You'll assist patients with daily activities, provide emotional support, and work alongside nurses and other medical professionals to deliver essential care. With Australia’s ageing population and growing demand for healthcare services, skilled Patient Care Assistants are highly sought after—offering strong job security and career growth opportunities. 

 

Thinking about a career in healthcare? Discover how becoming a Patient Care Assistant can be your first step into a rewarding and in-demand industry. 

Explore your career as an:

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EMPLOYED 103,500
PART-TIME SHARE 57%
AVERAGE FULL-TIME HOURS 42
MEDIAN WEEKLY EARNINGS $1,279

Patient Care Assistants in Australia are in high demand, particularly in hospitals, aged care facilities, disability support services, and home healthcare. With an ageing population and an increased focus on quality patient care, the need for skilled support workers continues to grow.

The healthcare and social assistance sector is Australia’s largest employing industry, offering strong job stability and opportunities for career progression. Many Patient Care Assistants go on to specialise in aged care, disability support, or nursing, making it a great entry point into the broader healthcare field.

If you're looking for a career with long-term growth and meaningful work, now is the perfect time to get started

Gender Split

Employment by State

Highest Level of education (%)

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What can you expect from working as a Patient Care Assistant?

Patient care assistants provide essential support to patients, helping with personal care and assisting healthcare professionals to ensure patient well-being. Key duties typically include:

  • Personal Care Support: Assisting patients with their personal care needs, such as showering, dressing, and eating.
  • Mobility & Communication: Assisting patients with their mobility and communication needs to ensure comfort and safety.
  • Care Planning Participation: Participating in planning the care of individuals by contributing to care strategies.
  • Therapy Support: Following therapy plans, including interventions to assist patients with dementia and behavioural problems.
  • Observation & Reporting: Observing and reporting changes in patients' conditions, as well as documenting complaints about care.
  • Rehabilitation & Medication Assistance: Assisting with rehabilitation exercises, basic treatment, and delivering medications as directed.
  • Therapist Support: Providing direct support and assistance to therapists during treatment and therapy sessions.

How to become a Patient Care Assistant?

Become a Patient Care Assistant by completing online training for flexibility while gaining hands-on experience through work placements. With the right qualifications and checks, you’ll be ready to step into roles in hospitals, aged care, and community health.

HLT33115

Certificate III in Health Services Assistance

Get ready to enter an exciting field and provide valuable assistance to nurses and health professionals. Equip yourself with job ready skills and enjoy the prospect of exciting growth opportunities in the future.
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