Aged care training in the ‘real world’
The federal government this week awarded $8.25 million in 16 grants to transform universities and aged care facilities into “practical learning centres”. Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, says the money will bring research, training and “real world” scenarios together for students.
The federal government this week awarded $8.25 million in 16 grants to transform universities and aged care facilities into “practical learning centres”.
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, says the money will bring research, training and “real world” scenarios together for students.
The 16 projects to receive funds under the Teaching and Research Aged Care Services initiative include a range of disciplines such as nursing, psychology, medicine, physiotherapy and occupational therapy. The projects are directed specifically at those who work with the elderly.
Tasmania has reportedly adopted a similar pilot scheme.
“By 2050, we expect more than one in 20 working Australians will be an aged care worker,” Mr Butler says.
“This means we need more than half a million new workers and we want the best possible learning environment for this wave of students.”
He adds: “It is critical as the population ages, that we ensure we have a highly skilled workforce, and the career path is attractive to the younger generations considering a future in the aged care industry.”
The federal government will also give $6 million to eight organisations focused on improving residential and community aged care with education and training.
