International program bolsters aged care workforce

Anglican Care’s workforce in Taree has been bolstered with the arrival of the first group of employees under an international sponsorship program.

Bishop Tyrrell Place and Storm Village both welcomed five new staff members after Newcastle Anglican joined a HealthX Pacific Aged Care Training (PACT) initiative.

The program, which is endorsed by the federal government, supports aged care providers through early access to student carers from the South Pacific. They will complete their Certificate III while working at their host facilities.

Following the first group of employees, a further five participants are expected to arrive at Bishop Tyrrell Place in November.

Storm Village will also receive five more staff members in early 2024.

Newcastle Anglican Talent Acquisition and Wellbeing Manager Justin Ryan said there were a number of benefits to joining the HealthX program.

“These new arrivals will provide a more stable workforce, provide an amazing experience of life in Australia for our workers, and offer continuity of care to our residents,” he said.

“The program also provides participants with career and learning development opportunities and will likely lead to a long-term career in aged care.”

Mr Ryan added the employees had enjoyed a successful start to their new careers in Taree.

“Our care support staff members are already fitting in well and supporting our residents in all aspects of care, activities, and wellbeing,” he said.

“They are loving the local area and all the things the Mid North Coast has to offer.”

Under the HealthX program, a recruitment team travels to the South Pacific four times a year and works with local governments and training organisations.

Upon selection, student carers are then prepared for life in Australia through cultural lessons, financial literacy, health, and hygiene.

A facilitator will now fly to Taree each month and present two days of classroom training. Participants also engage in a weekly training session via Zoom.

Newcastle Anglican has the option to sponsor participants full-time following a three-year period.