By Goreto
Published on Oct 20, 2025
By Goreto
Published on Oct 20, 2025

Are you a Nepalese student dreaming of building a rewarding career in Australia — one that not only offers great income and job security but also allows you to make a difference in people’s lives?

If so, an aged care course in Australia might be the perfect pathway for you.

Australia is home to a rapidly growing elderly population, and the demand for skilled aged care professionals has never been higher.

This has opened up exciting career and migration opportunities for international students, especially those who wish to study in Australia from Nepal.

Over the past few years, thousands of Nepali students have chosen aged care studies in Australia as a stepping stone toward Permanent Residency (PR) and a fulfilling career.

The combination of hands-on training, flexible study options, and clear migration pathways makes this field one of the most practical and in-demand options in 2025 and beyond.

Whether you’re just starting to explore options or ready to apply, Goreto Educational Consultancy will help you find the best aged care course in Australia that aligns with your goals, budget, and future migration plans.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from why you should study aged care in Australia to course types, eligibility, fees, and career prospects — so you can plan your journey with confidence and start your dream of studying in Australia from Nepal.

Why Choose Aged Care in Australia? 

Australia’s aged care industry is expanding at an incredible pace. 

With more than 16% of Australians over 65, the need for compassionate and qualified caregivers continues to rise — creating stable job opportunities and strong migration prospects for international graduates.

Here’s why aged care has become such a popular choice among Nepalese students:

1. High Demand & Job Security

The Australian Government has identified aged care as a priority skills sector, ensuring long-term employment stability. 

According to Job Outlook, there will be over 250,000 new roles added in the next decade — meaning your skills will always be in demand.

2. Competitive Salary & Growth

Entry-level aged care workers earn AUD 55,000–65,000 per year, with higher pay for experienced professionals or those in supervisory or specialized roles. 

Regional areas often offer even better pay and benefits.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)

Many aged care–related occupations (such as Aged or Disabled Carer, Nursing Support Worker, and Personal Care Assistant) are listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists, providing clear PR pathways through visas like 189, 190, and 491. 

Studying in a regional area can further boost your migration points.

4. Fulfilling & Meaningful Career

Beyond financial benefits, aged care offers deep personal satisfaction. 

You’ll be improving people’s quality of life, helping them maintain independence, and building genuine human connections — something few other careers can offer.

5. Flexible Study Options

Australia offers multiple levels of aged care courses through TAFE institutions, Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), and private colleges, allowing students to select study modes that fit their lifestyle and goals.

Overview of Aged Care Courses in Australia

The aged care field offers several qualification levels, designed to equip students with practical knowledge, clinical experience, and communication skills to support elderly individuals in diverse settings such as residential facilities, community centers, or private homes.

Below is a breakdown of the main aged care courses available for Nepalese students in Australia:

Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care)

  • Duration: 6–12 months
  • Focus: Foundational skills for personal care, support, and safety
  • Outcome: Entry-level role (Personal Care Assistant, Aged Care Worker)
  • Ideal For: Students new to the health or community care field

Certificate IV in Ageing Support

  • Duration: 12–18 months
  • Focus: Advanced skills in care planning, supervision, and complex support needs
  • Outcome: Senior or Team Leader roles in aged care facilities
  • Ideal For: Students seeking leadership roles or progressing from Cert III

Diploma of Community Services / Health Care

  • Duration: 1.5–2 years
  • Focus: Broader community and healthcare knowledge, including management, counseling, and client advocacy
  • Outcome: Case Manager, Community Service Coordinator, or Pathway to a Bachelor’s degree
  • Ideal For: Students wanting to advance to management or further health studies

Sample Course Comparison Table

Course LevelDurationTypical Tuition (AUD)OutcomeJob Roles
Cert III in Individual Support6–12 months10,000–15,000Entry-Level QualificationAged Care Worker, Support Assistant
Cert IV in Ageing Support12–18 months12,000–20,000Senior QualificationCare Supervisor, Team Leader
Diploma of Community Services1.5–2 years15,000–25,000Advanced QualificationCase Manager, Community Coordinator

Pro Tip: Many students begin with Certificate III and later upgrade to Certificate IV, creating a strong academic and migration foundation while gaining work experience in the field.

Entry Requirements & Eligibility (for Nepali Students)

To study an Aged Care course in Australia, Nepalese students must meet certain academic, English, and visa-related requirements. 

The good news? These entry requirements are achievable for most Nepali students who have completed higher secondary education.

Academic Requirements

  • Completion of Grade 12 (10+2) or equivalent qualification
  • Background in Health, Science, or Management preferred (but not mandatory)
  • Minimum GPA as per institution requirement (usually 2.0+ out of 4.0)

If you’ve studied nursing or community service subjects in Nepal, it can give you an added advantage during application or credit transfer.

English Language Proficiency

As most Australian aged care courses are taught in English, international students must demonstrate language proficiency through one of the following tests:

  • IELTS: Overall 6.0 (with no band less than 5.5)
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50
  • TOEFL iBT: Score of 60 or higher

Tip: Some TAFE institutes or regional colleges may accept slightly lower scores if additional English training is taken before starting the main course.

Other Requirements

  • Valid Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your motivation to study aged care in Australia.
  • Police Clearance & Medical Check (as part of the visa process)
  • Health Insurance (OSHC) for the duration of your stay

 Visa Requirements

You’ll need to apply for the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). 

The visa allows you to study full-time and work part-time while enrolled.

Goreto Educational Consultancy assists students with:

  • Preparing required documents
  • Writing a strong SOP for the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria
  • Guiding you through the visa application process step-by-step

Fees, Financials & Scholarships

Studying aged care in Australia is relatively affordable compared to other healthcare courses like nursing, and it offers excellent value considering the practical experience and career opportunities that come with it.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees vary depending on the institution, course level, and location.


Here’s a general guide for Nepali students:

Course LevelDurationAverage Annual Fee (AUD)
Certificate III in Individual Support6–12 months10,000–15,000
Certificate IV in Ageing Support12–18 months12,000–20,000
Diploma of Community Services1.5–2 years15,000–25,000

Note: Regional and TAFE institutes often offer lower fees than private colleges in major cities.

 Living Costs

According to the Australian Government, international students should budget AUD 24,505 per year for living expenses.

 

Here’s a monthly estimate for Nepalese students:

ExpenseAverage Monthly Cost (AUD)
Accommodation600–1,000
Food & Groceries300–500
Transportation100–150
Utilities & Internet100–200
Miscellaneous (entertainment, clothes, etc.)200–300

Total: Around 1,300–2,000 AUD/month depending on lifestyle and location.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

While aged care courses generally offer fewer scholarships than university degrees, students can still benefit from:

  • Regional Study Grants (discounts for studying outside major cities)
  • TAFE Fee Concessions or Early Bird Discounts
  • Institution-specific bursaries for high-performing students
  • Work-integrated placements that can offset living costs

Pro Tip: Studying in regional Australia not only reduces tuition and living costs but also adds valuable PR points for migration later on.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

During your studies, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, earning around AUD 25–35 per hour. 

Many students find work in supermarkets, hospitality, or even as support workers, gaining experience relevant to their course.

Study Format & Structure

Aged care courses in Australia are designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience, preparing students to work confidently in real care environments.

Course Duration

  • Certificate III: 6–12 months
  • Certificate IV: 12–18 months
  • Diploma: 18–24 months

Students usually attend classes 2–3 days per week and complete mandatory work placements during or after the coursework phase.

Study Mode

  • On-Campus: Traditional classroom sessions with lab simulations and discussions
  • Blended Learning: A Combination of online theory + on-site practical training
  • Regional Study: Smaller class sizes, community-based placements, and better migration prospects

Practical Placement

Every aged care qualification includes mandatory workplace training (120–160 hours). Students complete this in:

  • Nursing homes
  • Retirement villages
  • Home-care or community care settings

This placement helps students apply classroom learning in real-life care environments — often leading to employment offers even before graduation.

Assessments & Evaluation

  • Written and oral assignments
  • Workplace performance evaluations
  • Practical demonstrations and case studies

Support Services for Nepalese Students

Most Australian institutions offer:

  • Free English and academic support
  • Student counseling and mentorship programs
  • Employment assistance and resume workshops

Work While Studying & Post-Study Work Rights

One of the greatest advantages of studying in Australia is the opportunity to work while studying, helping Nepalese students manage their expenses and gain valuable local experience. 

Aged care courses, in particular, offer a great balance between study and part-time work opportunities.

Working While Studying

As an international student on a Subclass 500 Student Visa, you are allowed to:

  • Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
  • Work unlimited hours during semester breaks

Typical part-time jobs for students include:

  • Aged care or disability support assistant
  • Personal care worker (casual shifts)
  • Hospitality, retail, or warehouse work
  • Cleaning or general service roles

The average hourly pay ranges from AUD 25–35, depending on the type of job and location.

Industry Placement Opportunities

Many aged care programs in Australia include mandatory practical placements in real care facilities. 

These placements not only satisfy course requirements but also give students a foot in the door to future employment.

Some institutions partner directly with aged care centers, where successful students are often offered part-time or full-time work upon completion.

Post-Study Work Rights

After completing your qualification, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) under the Post-Study Work Stream or Graduate Work Stream, depending on your course level.

This visa allows you to:

  • Stay and work in Australia for up to 2–4 years
  • Gain local experience in your field.
  • Prepare for PR or employer sponsorship opportunities.

Work & Study Balance

Goreto recommends that students maintain a healthy balance — focus on academic success while using part-time work to enhance experience and financial independence.

Career Pathways & Job Roles After Graduation

Aged care is one of the most employable and rewarding career fields in Australia, offering both emotional fulfillment and career stability. 

Upon completing your qualification, you can choose from a range of job roles in various care settings.

Common Job Roles

  • Aged Care Worker / Personal Care Assistant – Provide support to elderly clients in care homes or private residences.
  • Residential Support Worker – Assist residents with mobility, personal care, and companionship in aged care facilities.
  • Community Care Worker – Help older adults live independently in their own homes.
  • Care Team Leader / Supervisor – Manage and support a team of carers (requires Cert IV or Diploma).
  • Disability Support Worker – Provide specialized care for individuals with disabilities.

 Average Salary Range (2025 Estimates)

RoleExperience LevelAverage Annual Salary (AUD)
Aged Care WorkerEntry-Level55,000 – 65,000
Care SupervisorMid-Level65,000 – 75,000
Case Manager / CoordinatorExperienced75,000 – 90,000

Note: Working in regional Australia can increase earning potential and improve PR eligibility.

Workplaces & Sectors

Graduates can find employment in:

  • Residential aged care facilities
  • Nursing homes and retirement villages
  • Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
  • Community and home-based care organizations
  • Private agencies and government-supported programs

Career Growth Opportunities

Starting as a support worker doesn’t mean you stay there. With experience and further education, you can advance to roles such as:

  • Team Leader or Supervisor
  • Case Manager
  • Enrolled Nurse or Registered Nurse (after completing further study)
  • Facility Coordinator or Manager

Pathway Example:

Cert III → Cert IV → Diploma → Bachelor of Nursing → PR or Skilled Employment

Real-Life Insight

Many Nepalese graduates who began as aged care assistants now hold senior positions or have successfully transitioned into nursing or health management roles in Australia.

Their journey highlights how aged care can be a gateway to long-term professional success and permanent residency.

Permanent Residency (PR) & Migration Pathways

For many Nepalese students, one of the main motivations for studying aged care in Australia is the clear migration pathway it provides. 

The good news is that the aged care sector continues to be a high-priority occupation area in Australia’s skilled migration program.

PR-Relevant Occupations

Several aged care–related occupations are included on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and Regional Occupation List (ROL), such as:

  • Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111)
  • Nursing Support Worker (423312)
  • Personal Care Assistant (423313)
  • Community Worker (411711)

These occupations make you eligible for skilled migration visas or employer sponsorships.

Key PR Visa Pathways

Visa TypeDescriptionPR Potential
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent VisaPoints-tested visa without employer sponsorshipPermanent
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated VisaRequires state/territory nominationPermanent
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)Study/work in a regional area for the PR pathway5-year temporary → PR after 3 years
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination SchemeEmployer-sponsored PR visaPermanent
Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage VisaEmployer sponsorship for 2–4 yearsPathway to PR

How PR Points Are Calculated

Your PR eligibility depends on several factors, such as:

  • Age (under 45 years)
  • Education level and qualification
  • English proficiency
  • Work experience (Australian & overseas)
  • Regional study or state nomination

The Typical PR Pathway for Nepalese Students

  1. Enroll in a recognized aged care course (Cert III/IV or Diploma)
  2. Complete your qualification and gain local work experience..
  3. Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to stay and work
  4. Gain full-time work experience (1–2 years) in an eligible occupation.
  5. Apply for PR under 189, 190, or 491 skilled migration visas.

Your Journey to a Rewarding Career Starts Here

Choosing to study an Aged Care course in Australia is more than just an academic decision — it’s the beginning of a journey filled with purpose, opportunity, and growth. 

For Nepalese students, this field offers a rare combination of career stability, global relevance, and clear pathways to Permanent Residency (PR).

Aged care professionals are at the heart of Australia’s healthcare system, providing compassion and support to those who need it most. 

By stepping into this profession, you’re not just securing your future — you’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

At Goreto Educational Consultancy, we’ve guided hundreds of Nepali students in turning their dream of studying and settling in Australia into reality. 

From choosing the right course and preparing your documents to visa processing and migration advice — we’re with you at every step.

Ready to begin your journey?

Contact us today for a free counseling session and expert guidance on how to start your aged care studies in Australia with confidence.

 

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