The role of overseas workers in Australian aged care
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With an ageing population increasing the need for round-the-clock care, the country’s heavy reliance on overseas professionals has become more apparent than ever. Recent government initiatives, policy shifts, and steadfast advocacy from organisations like the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) have all converged to shape how overseas workers are welcomed, trained and retained within the aged care system.
The ACN, led by CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN, continues to play a central role in attracting internationally qualified nurses to Australia. “As CEO, I have led the College’s long-time efforts to attract, retain and support overseas nurses to come here and stay to provide quality care where it is needed most – often in rural and remote communities,” Ward explains. She notes that the ACN has long offered bridging courses and training programs, ensuring that new arrivals adapt seamlessly to local healthcare protocols and work settings.
Ward also highlights the importance of fostering supportive workplace environments, emphasising that “we will work with the Government to recruit, train, retain, and respect nurses to increase the nursing workforce across all areas of the health system.” Yet while the ACN stands firmly behind skilled migration for nurses, Ward clarifies it does not support compulsory union membership for newly arrived workers, saying, “We have been assured that compulsory union membership for nurses is not on the table.”
Government data underscores just how vital these overseas workers have become. According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, over 42,000 skilled healthcare professionals have registered to practise in Australia since July 2022. In aged care and nursing specifically, there has been a record influx of workers from Timor-Leste, Nepal, New Zealand, and across the Pacific. Funding targeted visa programs and eliminating red tape, the Federal Government has simplified processes to let professionals move more quickly into the workforce.
Changes to visa conditions effective from July 2024 are set to further reshape the landscape. Holders of sponsored temporary work visas, including those employed through Aged Care Labour Agreements, will have up to 180 days at a time (and a total of 365 days across their visa period) to seek new employment if they leave their current sponsor. This increased flexibility aims to reduce worker exploitation and facilitate a more responsive labour market.
As a result, aged care providers are advised to adapt recruitment and retention strategies so they do not lose valuable staff to competitors.
“The changes may improve efficiency in recruitment for aged care providers by allowing onshore visa holders to be employed quickly,” explains legal expert Taya Hunt.
However, she also cautions that these new freedoms may make staff turnover more likely, prompting providers to maintain excellent working conditions to remain competitive.
By 2025, Australia’s commitment to stronger immigration pathways, combined with robust advocacy from professional bodies, points to a thriving partnership between overseas workers and the nation’s aged care system. In bridging pressing workforce gaps, international nurses and carers bring diverse skills and much-needed capacity—ultimately ensuring older Australians receive the dignity and high-quality care they deserve.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
