About the sector

What is the community care and disability sector?

The community care and disability sector is one of the largest industries in Australia, providing a range of services aimed at improving the quality of life for members of the community with support needs. These include people:

  • Who are older, frail or infirm
  • Have physical or intellectual disabilities
  • Have mental health issues

The sector is primarily comprised of a number of government-funded organisations, not-for-profit organisations, charities and benevolent institutions who together service more than 400,000 clients within New South Wales (NSW).

From desk-based administration roles right through to those requiring medical qualifications, and entry level roles through to those needing tertiary qualifications – the sector offers a wealth of career opportunities.

Who works in the sector?

Over 26,000 people work in community care and disability support in NSW – from all ethnicities, cultures, ages, and every imaginable level of experience – from qualified to hands on know-how. Here are some examples:

  • Matt, who came from a recording studio background
  • Ken, who was a manager in a manufacturing firm
  • Kellie, who held a team role in a corporate environment
  • Debbie, who took 24 years to find this job after working in retail and customer service

There are more women working in the sector than men, with a large proportion being 45 years of age or more.

Why is the sector recruiting?

  • Growing demand – an ageing population and a changing health care landscape are combining to drive a growing demand for the sector's services. With this change comes a need for a more specialised workforce across a broader range of roles.
  • More complex services – supporting people to live in their homes and communities enhances and maintains their independent living.
  • Social demographic changes – changes in family situations are increasing the demand for support services. Higher divorce rates and increased female workforce participation are reducing the number of people available to care for family members.
  • A growing service demand and a decline in workforce coupled with a poor image of the work available - all contribute to the sector's need to recruit.

 

Why is it a good sector to work in?

Working in this sector is more than a career; it's a way of life. If you enjoy real challenges, and appreciate real diversity in what you do and in the people around you, you'll discover the feeling of genuine satisfaction.
Benefits include:

  • Job variety – no two days are ever the same
  • Challenge – the work will stretch your abilities
  • Work-life balance – flexible working hours that suit your schedule
  • Salary packaging – working for certain organisations means you could pay less tax, thus earning more

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