New Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement
Breaking News for Australia's Aged Care Sector
Australia is currently experiencing a significant demographic shift, with a rapidly ageing population that places a growing strain on the country's aged care system. In response, the Australian Government has taken decisive action to ensure that our senior citizens receive the care and support they deserve. The introduction of the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement is a major step towards bolstering the aged care workforce.
This agreement allows employers in the aged care industry to sponsor skilled direct care workers, such as Nursing Support Workers, Personal Care Assistants, and Aged or Disabled Carers, through the TSS 482 Visa Program. By eliminating the need for individual negotiations with each aged care provider, this streamlined process makes it easier for skilled workers to find employment in the industry.
How do aged care providers apply for the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement?
Here are the steps:
Establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with one of the approved unions, such as the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), Health Services Union (HSU), or United Workers Union (UWU).
Once the MoU is in place, you can proceed with preparing and submitting an application for the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement (ACILA) to the Department of Home Affairs.
Are there any concessions available for the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement?
The Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement comes with several concessions that simplify the visa application process. These include a two-year pathway to permanent residency, no post-qualification work experience requirement, priority processing, and English language concessions for applicants with relevant community language skills.
What are the eligibility requirements for aged care workers?
Applicants must hold a relevant AQF Certificate III or higher qualification. Alternatively, they can have 12 months of relevant work experience or its part-time equivalent. Additionally, a positive skills assessment from either the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council or the Australian Community Workers Association is required for overseas qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum level of IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent) is also necessary, with a lower requirement of IELTS 4.5 (or equivalent) for workers employed by culturally and linguistically diverse aged care providers who possess target community language skills.
Once aged care providers have established an MoU with the relevant union(s), Labour Market Testing (LMT) requirements will be considered fulfilled. However, it's important to note that the specific skill and qualification requirements may differ from those outlined in the ANZSCO. To ensure accuracy, refer to the terms of each approved labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs.
Is there a pathway to PR for aged care workers?
Yes! In much welcome news, the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement offers sponsored employees a pathway to permanent residency through the 186 Employer Nominated Scheme visa program. To qualify, workers must have at least two years of work experience in a relevant direct care occupation. The flexibility of this requirement allows employees to gain experience with different employers or visa subclasses.
What does this mean for aged care workers and aged care providers?
The Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement represents a significant milestone in Australia's commitment to supporting the ageing population and meeting the demand for skilled workers in the aged care sector. By simplifying the visa process and offering concessions, this agreement aims to address the urgent needs of our senior citizens and build a strong and compassionate aged care workforce.
If you're an aged care provider or a direct care worker interested in learning more about the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement and how it can benefit you, our team of experienced immigration lawyers is here to assist you. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and explore the possibilities this agreement presents.
