If you’re thinking about working as a caregiver in Australia, the good news is that there are plenty of opportunities including roles that offer visa sponsorship with high paying hourly or monthly pay rate of AUD $28–$34 per hour while full‑time annual salary ranges from AUD $55,000–$68,000. Australia places a strong focus on high‑quality care for older adults, people with disabilities, and anyone who needs day‑to‑day support. If you’re passionate about helping others, this field can offer a genuinely rewarding career and a stable pathway into the country.
Why Caregivers Are in Demand
The care industry in Australia has grown rapidly in recent years. An ageing population, increased disability support services, and a shortage of local workers mean that skilled caregivers are needed more than ever. As the document notes, “caregiving services are in high demand in Australia, with both local and international professional opportunities accessible.”
Caregivers support people with daily tasks such as:
- Personal care (showering, grooming, dressing)
- Mobility and transfers
- Meal preparation
- Social support and companionship
- Transport to appointments and activities
It’s meaningful work that directly improves someone’s quality of life.
Types of Caregiver Roles
- Aged Care Workers
Aged care workers support older adults in nursing homes, retirement villages, and private homes. Tasks include personal care, medication reminders, meal prep, and companionship.
Updated Pay (2025)
Pay Type Amount
Hourly AUD $28–$34/hr
Full‑time annual salary AUD $55,000–$68,000
- Disability Support Workers
These workers assist people living with disabilities — helping with mobility, community access, therapy routines, and daily living tasks. Many roles are funded through the NDIS.
Updated Pay (2025)
Pay Type Amount
Hourly AUD $30–$36/hr
Full‑time annual salary AUD $58,000–$72,000
- Childcare Workers / Nannies
Child caregivers look after children’s safety, wellbeing, and development. Jobs exist in private homes, childcare centres, and early learning settings.
Updated Pay (2025)
Pay Type Amount
Hourly AUD $26–$32/hr
Full‑time annual salary AUD $52,000–$65,000
Visa Sponsorship Options
Australia offers several visa pathways for caregivers:
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
Allows employers to sponsor skilled workers for up to four years.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
A permanent residency visa for sponsored workers.
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187)
Permanent residency for workers employed in regional Australia.
These visas help international caregivers build long‑term careers in the country.
Qualifications You Need
Caregiving is considered an entry‑level field, so formal qualifications aren’t required to start. However, you must meet three legal requirements under the Aged Care Act 1997:
- You cannot be bankrupt or insolvent
- You must have no indictable criminal offences
- You must not be of “unsound mind”
Most employers prefer — or eventually require — training such as:
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability)
The standard entry qualification for aged care and disability support.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support
For senior or supervisory roles.
These qualifications significantly improve your job prospects and earning potential.
What Caregiver Jobs Usually Involve
Typical duties include:
Building strong, supportive relationships with clients and families
Helping with personal care, grooming, and hygiene
Preparing meals and assisting with household tasks
Providing transport to appointments and social activities
Following safety and health guidelines
Where to Find Caregiver Jobs With Sponsorship
You can search for roles through:
Major Job Websites
- Seek
- Indeed
- Jora
- CareerOne
- EthicalJobs
- Care Careers
Care Providers
Apply directly to aged care homes, disability organisations, and home‑care agencies.
Healthcare Facilities
Hospitals, clinics, and community health services often hire support staff.
Networking
Industry events, training workshops, and professional groups can open doors.
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Getting Visa Sponsorship as a Caregiver in Australia
Here’s a clear, realistic pathway you can follow:
Step 1 — Make Sure You Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you can pass:
- A National Police Check
- A Working With Children Check (if working with kids)
- Health and character requirements
- The Aged Care Act criteria (no indictable offences, not bankrupt, etc.)
Step 2 — Get the Right Training (Optional but Highly Recommended)
While not mandatory, completing:
- Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability)
- First Aid & CPR certification
…dramatically increases your chances of sponsorship.
Many employers won’t sponsor without it.
Step 3 — Prepare an Australian‑Style Resume and Cover Letter
Australian employers prefer:
- Short, clear resumes
- Bullet‑pointed duties
- Evidence of compassion, reliability, and communication skills
- Any experience with elderly or disabled clients
I can create one for you if you want.
Step 4 — Apply Only to Employers Who Offer Sponsorship
Look for keywords like:
- “482 sponsorship available”
- “Visa sponsorship provided”
- “Overseas applicants welcome”
These appear frequently on Seek, Indeed, and Care Careers.
Step 5 — Attend Interviews (Usually Online)
Most employers will:
- Ask about your experience
- Test your understanding of personal care
- Assess your communication skills
- Check your willingness to work flexible hours
Step 6 — Receive a Job Offer
If the employer wants to hire you, they will issue:
- A formal job offer
- A nomination for your visa
- Instructions for the next steps
Step 7 — Employer Lodges the Sponsorship Nomination
The employer submits:
- Their business details
- Proof they need a worker
- Evidence they can pay your salary
You don’t handle this part — they do.
Step 8 — You Submit Your Visa Application
You will need:
- Passport
- Police checks
- Health exam
- Skills/qualification evidence
- English test (if required)
Step 9 — Wait for Visa Approval
Processing times vary, but many caregiver visas are prioritised due to workforce shortages.
Step 10 — Move to Australia and Start Work
Once approved, you can:
- Travel to Australia
- Begin your sponsored role
- Work toward permanent residency (if eligible)
Benefits of Caregiving in Australia
- Job security — high demand across the country
- Pathways to permanent residency
- Emotionally rewarding work
- Competitive pay
- Career progression opportunities
Caregiving is a field where you can make a real difference while building a stable future.