RTO ID: 41597 | CRICOS Provider: 03540C
What Happened with Aged Care Pay?
The Fair Work Commission approved a 15% pay increase for aged care workers in 2024 — the largest in the sector's history. This was followed by further increases in 2025 and 2026 as part of the Aged Care Work Value Case. The government's $3.7 billion aged care funding injection has funded these increases directly. For the first time, aged care work is competitive with other entry-level professions in terms of pay.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you qualify as an aged care worker in 2026, you start your career at $27–$32 per hour — above the national minimum wage. With shift loadings on weekends and public holidays, effective hourly rates can reach $40–$55. This makes aged care one of the best-paying entry-level career options for people without a university degree.
How to Qualify and Benefit
The minimum qualification is CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support. Delivered by Clinton Institute (RTO 41597 | CRICOS: 115261A) at the Melbourne campus, CHC33021 takes 26 weeks for international students. Once qualified, you earn the new aged care rates immediately.
Career Progression to Even Higher Pay
With CHC33021 at $27–$32/hr, progress to CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support for $32–$38/hr, then to team leader and supervisor roles for $38–$45/hr. These rates are all above the 2026 average for entry-level careers.
Ready to Benefit?
Clinton Institute (RTO ID: 41597 | CRICOS Provider Code: 03540C) offers CHC33021 at the Melbourne campus. Apply at clinton.edu.au/apply-to-study.