Workforce Council

Employees within Disability Services generally work within Personal Care, Supported Accommodation, Family Support, Respite Care, Lifestyle Support, Advocacy, Information, Recreation, Employment and Community Access.

10 years in the Health and Community Services

I knew I would enjoy working in Health & Community Services. I had a background in administration and computers and have completed training in Certificate III in Aged Care and Certificate IV Lifestyle and Leisure. Making a difference to people's lives and sending them away feeling happy. This is what I love most and what I want to keep doing in the future.

Jimmy Jong, Manager- Community

10 years in the Health and Community Services

While I was working in the hospitality area I had a few disability customers at my shop. One day I said to myself, I would like to get into the disability services area to help and assist people in wheel chairs.  I started as a support worker 7 years ago. I had a hospitality certificate from TAFE, but did not have any qualifications in disability service. I now have a Certificate III in disability service. I love to put smiles on other people's faces. At the end of the day I know I have helped the clients to get through the day. My work assists the client to develop skills to participate and achieve valued roles within the community. In the future I want to do the same - help people to realise their individual capabilities and quality of life.

Lorraine Hansen, Support Worker

1 year in the Health and Community Services

Two years ago I was working for RSL Homecare as a Care worker, my job description was helping with cleaning, assisting with shopping and doctors' appointments and basically being there when needed. I loved my role but I needed something more, something was missing. Then I was told about doing support work. Working with the clients, interacting with them, having fun taking them on outings, caring for them, being a good Support Worker, working with a good organization, working with other great Support Workers. These are the things I love about my job. In the future I hope to still be doing the same and just being myself.

2 months in the Health and Community Services

I wanted a job where I feel as though I am helping people. I had people skills but no formal qualifications.   I love my job because people are given dignity and respect. The clients get to enjoy a lifestyle the same as anyone else. In the future I am content to continue helping people.

7 years in the Health and Community Services

"I wanted to work with older people so I joined the aged care industry. I had worked for 2 years in a conference centre and then as a community support worker. I have since completed a Certificate III in Aged Care."

"I love making people's days enjoyable and I want to keep making people feel happy when they leave."

8 years in the Health and Community Services

7 years in the Health and Community Services

"The inspiration behind my career choice was because I wanted to help people out and break down social barriers for people with disability to make the community more inclusive. I love that I am forever learning new things through my job. One of the rewarding aspects of my job has been assisting people engage in their community and achieve their full potential."

10 years in the Health and Community Services

The thing I love most about my job is knowing that I have the power to stand up for someone when no one else will. The one skill I knew I had was talking and connecting with people so I think I always knew I would end up with this career. Now I don't think I could consider a position where my heart wasn't involved. I have worked in child protection, disability, juvenile justice and youth work. I started out in the industry as a support worker in disability and I have built my career. Now in management in the disability sector. It took me ten years to get back to what I truly love. It's always special to see a client connect and progress. Over the last few years the sector has become more accountable and therefore more legitimate for professionals in the sector. I have enjoyed watching the sector change over time. My advice is work while you study because there is nothing an employer wants more than experience.