adminAustralia has become one of the leading destinations for healthcare and social support employment, with home care workers being at the center of this demand. The industry is expanding rapidly due to the country’s aging population, longer life expectancy, and increased government funding towards aged and disability care.
As of 2025, the average hourly wage for home care workers in Australia ranges between $28.50 and $34.76, depending on the region, qualifications, and level of responsibility. This wage range makes the profession one of the most attractive entry points for international job seekers looking for visa sponsorship and long-term career stability in Australia.
The attraction of home care jobs is not limited to the salary alone. The Australian government continues to support skilled and semi-skilled migration pathways to fill labor shortages across healthcare services.
For foreign workers, this creates a unique opportunity to secure permanent residency through home care roles, particularly under regional visa schemes. In addition to strong pay packages, workers benefit from flexible working arrangements, paid training opportunities, and in many cases, employer-sponsored visas.
The job scope of a home care worker extends beyond basic medical support. Workers are responsible for assisting individuals in their daily activities, providing companionship, ensuring a safe living environment, and sometimes delivering specialized healthcare under supervision.
These responsibilities make home care jobs in Australia not only financially rewarding but also personally fulfilling, as workers directly impact the lives of the elderly and disabled community.
Given the high demand, salaries are set to rise further, and job seekers who take early advantage of these openings can expect both immediate employment and long-term security.
This article will break down why the home care industry is one of the fastest-growing in Australia, the skills required, the regions with the highest pay, and the visa sponsorship pathways that make relocating possible for foreign workers.
Why Work in the Home Care Industry?
The home care sector is now considered one of the backbone industries in Australia’s healthcare system. With more than 4.1 million Australians aged over 65 as of 2025, the demand for qualified and compassionate caregivers has never been greater.
The government has allocated billions of dollars annually towards aged care and disability services, ensuring that the industry remains stable and continues to grow. This makes home care jobs some of the most secure employment opportunities in the country.
Another reason to consider this career is the flexibility it offers. Many home care workers are employed under casual or part-time arrangements that allow them to balance work with personal responsibilities.
This flexibility, combined with competitive hourly wages averaging between $30 and $34.76, creates a balance that many professionals in other sectors struggle to find.
Personal and Professional Development
Home care jobs in Australia also provide excellent training opportunities. Employers often sponsor mandatory courses such as Certificate III in Individual Support, which is essential for working in the industry.
With this qualification, workers can progress to supervisory or specialized roles such as aged care coordinators, palliative care specialists, or disability support managers, earning annual salaries upwards of AUD $75,000.
Contribution to Society
Beyond financial gain, home care work offers the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. Workers assist vulnerable individuals with mobility, hygiene, nutrition, and emotional support, which greatly improves quality of life.
This personal fulfillment is one of the main reasons many migrants choose to remain in this sector long-term, even after gaining permanent residency.
High Job Security
While industries such as retail or hospitality may be vulnerable to economic shifts, the healthcare sector is consistently stable. The need for caregivers does not decline with economic downturns, making these jobs resilient even during challenging global financial periods.
Types of Home Care Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Foreign workers looking to relocate to Australia under visa sponsorship programs will find a wide range of home care roles suited to different skills and qualifications. From entry-level support workers to specialized healthcare assistants, the sector accommodates workers at multiple levels.
Aged Care Support Worker
Aged care support workers are the largest category of home care jobs. They assist the elderly with day-to-day activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility assistance.
The average pay for this role ranges from AUD $29.40 to $33.80 per hour, depending on the region. Employers in aged care frequently sponsor workers under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa due to chronic shortages in this area.
Disability Support Worker
This role involves working with clients who have physical or intellectual disabilities. Workers help them develop independence, manage routines, and access community programs.
Disability support workers often earn around AUD $30.50 per hour, with senior workers or those in rural regions earning closer to $34.50 per hour. These positions are highly prioritized for visa sponsorship under regional skilled migration schemes.
Home Health Aide
Home health aides provide basic health services under the supervision of registered nurses or doctors. This includes monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with rehabilitation exercises. The average pay is AUD $31.20 per hour, with employers often providing additional allowances for night shifts or weekend work.
Palliative Care Assistant
Workers in this category provide end-of-life care, focusing on comfort and emotional support. This is a specialized role, with hourly rates ranging between AUD $32.00 and $34.76. Due to its sensitive nature, employers often prioritize experienced workers and may offer permanent visa sponsorship to retain them.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
One of the advantages of home care jobs in Australia is that many positions are open to candidates without extensive prior experience, provided they are willing to undergo training.
Employers place a higher value on qualities such as compassion, patience, and reliability than on formal education at the entry level. However, having certain certifications and skills can significantly increase chances of employment and higher pay.
Educational Qualifications
The most common qualification for home care roles is the Certificate III in Individual Support. This course, which takes between six months and one year to complete, equips workers with the practical skills needed to provide personal care, manage client safety, and handle communication effectively.
Some employers sponsor international workers for this course as part of employment contracts, while others prefer candidates who already hold similar qualifications from their home country.
Workplace Skills
Employers look for skills such as communication, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity. Since many clients may come from diverse backgrounds, being able to adapt to different cultural norms is considered essential. Workers are also trained to handle emergencies, follow health and safety regulations, and keep detailed care records.
Previous Experience
While not mandatory for entry-level jobs, experience in nursing, childcare, or hospitality can be an advantage. For instance, workers who have previously worked as hospital attendants, cleaners, or food service staff often transition successfully into home care roles. Employers recognize transferable skills such as teamwork, customer service, and physical stamina.
Licensing and Background Checks
Candidates must also undergo background checks, including police clearances, before beginning work. Some states require additional health checks or proof of vaccination against common illnesses like influenza and COVID-19. Employers sponsoring visas usually guide workers through this process.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Wages for home care workers in Australia vary depending on the region, cost of living, and demand for care services. Urban centers and remote regions often pay higher salaries to attract and retain workers.
For international job seekers, understanding which states and territories offer the best payment structures is crucial when planning relocation.
New South Wales (NSW)
Sydney and surrounding areas in NSW consistently rank among the highest-paying regions for home care workers. Hourly wages range from AUD $31.50 to $34.76, with additional allowances for weekend and night shifts.
Employers in Sydney also provide paid transport allowances, given the city’s expansive geography and the need to travel between clients. The strong demand for aged and disability care in metropolitan Sydney ensures stable job availability.
Victoria
Melbourne is another hotspot for home care employment. Workers here earn between AUD $30.20 and $34.10 per hour.
The Victorian government has heavily invested in aged care reforms, and many registered providers offer sponsorship for foreign workers to fill gaps in the workforce. Rural Victoria also pays slightly higher wages, up to AUD $34.50 per hour, to compensate for limited local labor supply.
Queensland
In Brisbane, home care workers typically earn AUD $29.80 to $33.50 per hour. However, in regional Queensland, especially in towns such as Cairns and Rockhampton, wages can climb closer to $34.70 per hour. Employers often provide subsidized housing or relocation packages to attract skilled foreign workers to these areas.
Western Australia (WA)
Perth and mining towns in WA have seen a steady increase in home care salaries. Workers earn an average of AUD $30.80 to $34.20 per hour. Due to the state’s geographic isolation, foreign workers are actively recruited, and employers are more likely to offer long-term visa sponsorship to maintain staff stability.
Tasmania and Northern Territory
These regions, while smaller in population, offer some of the most attractive salary packages to compensate for limited workforce availability. Home care workers in Darwin, Northern Territory, earn an average of AUD $32.00 to $34.76 per hour, while workers in Tasmania report average wages of AUD $31.50 per hour.
These areas are particularly favorable for foreign workers seeking regional visas, as the Australian government provides extra incentives for migrants to live and work in less-populated regions.
Salary Expectations for Home Care Workers
The salary expectations for home care workers in Australia are influenced by experience, qualifications, region, and the level of responsibility assigned.
According to 2025 labor statistics, the national average hourly rate is AUD $31.20, with entry-level workers starting at around AUD $28.50 per hour and experienced workers earning up to AUD $34.76.
Entry-level Salary
Newcomers to the industry without formal experience can expect to start at AUD $28.50 to $30.00 per hour. With employer-sponsored training programs such as Certificate III in Individual Support, salaries can increase within the first year of employment.
Mid-level Salary
Workers with two to three years of experience and specialized training often earn AUD $31.50 to $33.00 per hour. These roles may include supervising other care workers, assisting in medical routines, or managing small client groups.
Specialized and Senior Roles
Senior care workers or those with additional qualifications in palliative care, disability management, or dementia support can command salaries at the top of the pay scale, between AUD $33.50 and $34.76 per hour.
Annual salaries for full-time specialized home care workers typically range from AUD $68,000 to $72,000, excluding overtime and allowances.
Allowances and Benefits
In addition to the hourly wage, many employers provide benefits such as paid overtime, weekend loading, travel reimbursements, and superannuation contributions. Workers in rural areas may also receive housing allowances or relocation support. These additional benefits can increase total annual earnings by 10% to 15%.
For foreign workers on visa sponsorship, some employers cover visa processing costs and provide financial assistance for settlement. This significantly reduces the upfront expenses of relocating to Australia.
Visa Types and Options for Home Care Workers
Visa sponsorship is one of the main reasons Australia is attracting so many foreign home care workers. The Australian government has created several pathways to allow migrants to enter the healthcare sector, ensuring that labor shortages are effectively addressed.
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
This visa allows Australian employers to sponsor foreign workers for up to four years in occupations listed on the skilled shortage list, which includes aged care and disability support workers.
Workers can earn the standard industry wage while gaining valuable Australian work experience. After several years, many transition from this visa to permanent residency.
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa – Subclass 494
This visa is tailored for workers in regional areas where labor shortages are more pronounced. Home care workers employed in places like Tasmania, Northern Territory, and regional Queensland can secure a five-year visa with the possibility of applying for permanent residency after three years.
Hourly wages under this visa are often higher, averaging AUD $32.50 to $34.76, due to incentives offered by employers in remote areas.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186
This visa provides a direct pathway to permanent residency. Employers nominate foreign workers for long-term positions in home care, particularly for specialized roles such as palliative care assistants or disability program managers.
Workers under this visa enjoy the same benefits as Australian citizens, including healthcare and education rights for family members.
Working Holiday Visa with Pathways to Care Work
For younger candidates under 35, the Working Holiday Visa allows temporary entry into Australia. Many start as casual home care workers and later secure sponsorship under the TSS or ENS visa. This route is particularly attractive for workers seeking short-term employment with the option of extending their stay.
How to Find Home Care Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Securing a home care job in Australia with visa sponsorship requires both preparation and strategic job searching. Employers prioritize candidates who meet minimum qualification standards, but opportunities are widely available for those willing to invest in training and relocation.
Online Job Platforms
Websites such as Seek, Indeed Australia, and Workforce Australia list thousands of home care vacancies every month. Many of these ads specifically highlight visa sponsorship options for international applicants. Candidates should target employers recognized by the Australian government as approved sponsors.
Recruitment Agencies
Several recruitment agencies specialize in placing international healthcare workers in Australia. Agencies such as Healthcare Australia and Bupa Aged Care Recruitment have dedicated programs to help workers secure visas, training, and placement. These agencies often fast-track qualified candidates into high-demand regions.
Direct Employer Applications
Many aged care facilities and disability support providers hire directly through their websites. For example, providers like HammondCare, BaptistCare, and Regis Aged Care regularly sponsor foreign workers. Applying directly ensures faster communication and reduces competition compared to public job boards.
Government Migration Programs
The Australian government runs initiatives like the Skilled Migration Program and State Nomination Programs. Workers who register through these programs may be matched with employers seeking sponsorship. These official channels also guarantee that the jobs offered meet fair pay standards, ensuring hourly wages between AUD $30.00 and $34.76.
Networking and Referrals
Many foreign workers secure employment through word-of-mouth referrals from friends or relatives already in Australia. Employers value trusted recommendations, and candidates with referrals often bypass lengthy interview processes.
For job seekers, it is important to prepare professional resumes, ensure all documents such as police checks and health clearances are updated, and be ready to demonstrate flexibility in location. Rural areas often provide faster visa sponsorship opportunities due to greater demand.
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