This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
Explore all careersHow do I become a Residential Care Officer?
Get qualified to work as a Residential Care Officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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Common questions
In Australia, a full time Residential Care Officer generally earns $1,200 per week ($62,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.
Courses.com.au Team
Opportunities for Residential Care Officers in Australia are expected to grow very strongly over the next 5 years as more than 179,000 new jobs in aged and disability care open up around the country. This will include roles for supervisory roles. Residential Care Officers are employed by adult care centres, nursing homes, aged care facilities, group homes, and rehabilitation units.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
Residential Care Officers need real world experience in personal care as well as supporting qualifications. As a minimum you’ll need a Certificate III in Individual Support, and if you are working with the elderly or disabled you might also consider additional VET qualifications in those areas. Try the Certificate IV in Disability and the Certificate IV in Ageing Support. They take about a year to complete and also provide leadership skills. You will also need a current first aid and CPR certificate, and in some cases an up-to-date influenza vaccination and police check.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Certificate III in Individual Support (Home and Community Care)?
6th January 2022
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10th November 2023All residential care officer courses
Residential Care Officer careers
Residential Care Officers lead personal care work teams at nursing homes, aged care facilities, rehabilitation units, adult care facilities, and group homes. They ensure that the children and adults living in residential care (and cannot live independently), receive outstanding personal care.
As a Residential Care Officer you’ll be organising staff levels and ensuring that enough personal carers are rostered on to assist the residents, you’ll also be coaching and training your people on the job. Supervisors at Residential Care Centres also take of administration, paperwork, and training records.
