
AGED CARE SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Gender Representation
87% Female
Median Age
47
Median Weekly Earnings
$1643
Average Weekly Hours
38 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
An Aged Care Support Coordinator helps older individuals navigate and access the services they need to maintain independence, wellbeing, and connection to their community. Unlike a Case Manager who may oversee a complete care plan, a Support Coordinator works more closely on guiding clients through their available options, helping them understand government-funded services (like My Aged Care or Home Care Packages), and linking them with the right providers.
They assist with goal setting, service scheduling, monitoring outcomes, and ensuring the client’s voice remains central to every decision. A Support Coordinator also provides practical and emotional support to families and carers, ensuring the coordination process runs smoothly. Key skills include clear communication, knowledge of aged care systems, empathy, and the ability to multitask. While not always mandatory, qualifications in aged care, community services, or disability support are highly regarded and can enhance opportunities in this role.
MARKET SIZE & ECONOMIC IMPACT
Australia’s aged care industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, driven by an ageing population and increased demand for support services. As more Australians live longer, the need for aged care professionals continues to rise, creating strong job prospects and long-term career stability.
The industry plays a vital role in the national economy, contributing significantly to employment across the country. With ongoing government investment and reforms aimed at improving care standards, aged care remains a priority sector for both funding and development. Whether in residential facilities, home care, or community support settings, the aged care workforce is essential to Australia’s social and economic wellbeing.
EMERGING TRENDS & FUTURE OUTLOOK
The Australian aged care industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by changing preferences, demographic shifts, and government reform. A growing number of older Australians are choosing to age in place, leading to increased demand for home-based and community care services that provide personalised support in familiar environments.
A strong emphasis is now being placed on person-centred care, where services are tailored to the unique needs, values, and preferences of each individual. This shift includes recognising and respecting cultural safety, linguistic diversity, and inclusive practices—particularly for First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, and LGBTQIA+ elders.
In response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the government has committed to a series of reforms aimed at delivering safer, more transparent, and higher-quality care. These reforms are reshaping workforce standards, increasing accountability, and encouraging ongoing training and professional development across the sector.
Looking ahead, the demand for qualified aged care workers is expected to surge. There will be growing opportunities for those with multilingual abilities, mental health training, or specialised experience in dementia and palliative care. Technology will also play a bigger role, with innovations such as digital health records, remote monitoring, and assistive devices enhancing the way care is delivered and documented.
Overall, the future of aged care in Australia promises a more responsive, compassionate, and inclusive system—one that offers fulfilling and impactful career opportunities for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of older people.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Specialise in High-Need Support Areas
Support Coordinators are increasingly sought after in areas requiring advanced knowledge and personalised planning:
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Dementia Care – Coordinate person-centred support plans for individuals with cognitive decline, involving family education, behavioural strategies, and environmental adjustments.
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Palliative Care – Support clients and families through end-of-life planning, ensuring appropriate services and compassionate, dignified care are in place.
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Mental Health Support – Assist older clients experiencing social isolation, grief, depression, or anxiety, while collaborating with mental health services for integrated support.
Specialising in these areas enhances your ability to provide responsive, holistic care and positions you as a valuable resource across aged care and community services.
Pathways for Career Advancement
This role can serve as a springboard into more senior or specialised positions. With further study or experience, you could:
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Progress into roles such as Care Manager, Service Delivery Coordinator, Case Manager, or Package Manager for Home Care or NDIS.
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Pursue advanced qualifications like the Diploma of Community Services, Graduate Certificate in Case Management, or Diploma of Leadership and Management.
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Move laterally into allied sectors such as mental health coordination, disability support, or policy and advocacy.
Upskilling & Continuous Development
The aged care sector values lifelong learning and professional growth:
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Undertake short courses in areas like advanced care planning, cultural safety, trauma-informed practice, or aged care legislation.
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Stay current with aged care reforms, funding model changes (HCP, CHSP, NDIS), and aged care quality standards.
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Attend sector conferences, webinars, or workshops to connect with others in the field and broaden your knowledge.
Make a Lasting Impact on Clients and Their Families
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Empower clients to understand their options, navigate systems, and make informed decisions about their care.
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Build trusted relationships with clients, providers, and families through consistent and compassionate communication.
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Enjoy a career with both meaning and momentum—where your skills grow alongside your impact.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Service Navigation & Resource Knowledge
Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
Communication & Advocacy
Organisation & Case Management
Empathy & Cultural Competency
Looking to support older Australians through personalised care plans, advocacy, and coordination? A career as an Aged Care Case Manager allows you to make a lasting impact—connecting individuals and families to the right services, supporting complex needs, and promoting independence.
Whether you're stepping up from a care role or coming from a community services background, the right qualifications will help you lead with confidence and compassion.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support
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Certificate IV in Disability
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Certificate IV in Mental Health
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Diploma of Community Services
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Diploma of Leadership & Management
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First Aid & CPR (HLTAID011)
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Manual Handling & Infection Control Training
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Short Courses in Dementia Care, Palliative Care or Cultural Competency