Understanding the Care Sector's Award System
In Australia, a care worker's minimum pay is determined by an industry award, with the two most prominent being the Aged Care Award and the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry (SCHADS) Award. These awards legally define the minimum hourly rates for different employee levels, covering permanent, part-time, and casual roles. They also detail penalty rates for working weekends, nights, and public holidays, which can significantly boost overall income.
Recent government action, including substantial investments, has been dedicated to supporting significant wage increases for care workers. The goal is to recognise the value of this essential work, improve staff retention, and enhance the quality of care provided to older and vulnerable Australians.
Aged Care Worker Pay Rates in 2025
Aged care workers, including personal care workers, are primarily covered by the Aged Care Award. Following recent pay decisions supported by government funding, award wages have increased, with further increases scheduled.
Minimum Award Hourly Rates (Late 2025)
Based on the Fair Work Ombudsman's guidance, minimum award hourly rates for aged care employees vary by level:
- Level 1: Approx. $26.51
- Level 5: Approx. $29.94
- Level 7: Approx. $32.12
These base rates are subject to penalty rates. For instance, weekend work attracts a significant loading, and public holiday work can offer substantial hourly increases.
The Impact of Penalty Rates and Hours
For many care workers, a significant portion of their income comes from penalty rates. A worker on a Level 5 base rate of $29.94 could see their hourly pay jump significantly for weekend shifts, with the specific loading defined by the award. Full-time workers can earn a stable weekly wage, while casual employees receive a casual loading, typically 25%, on top of their base rate to compensate for lack of leave entitlements.
Disability Support Worker Pay (SCHADS Award)
Disability support workers are covered by the SCHADS Award, which also features a graded pay scale based on experience and responsibility.
SCHADS Award Hourly Rates (Permanent and Casual)
As of July 1, 2024, the minimum hourly rate for a permanent Level 2.1 disability support worker was $33.41, with a casual rate of $41.76. Pay increases with each pay point based on years of service. It is important to note that the SCHADS Award, like the Aged Care Award, includes various allowances and penalty rates for different shifts.
State-by-State Disability Pay
While the award provides a baseline, market rates and employer specifics can push salaries higher. Some data indicates geographical variations, with average annual salaries differing across states and territories.
Factors that Influence a Care Worker's Salary
Beyond the relevant award and classification level, several key factors influence a care worker's earning potential.
Experience and Qualifications
As seen in the award structures, experience is a major driver of pay. With each completed year or specified number of hours, workers move up to a higher pay point within their level. Additional qualifications, such as a Certificate III or IV in a relevant field, can lead to a higher starting classification and better pay. Specialised skills, such as dementia care or palliative care, are also highly valued and can increase a worker's marketability and earning potential.
Location and Facility Type
Where you work plays a significant role. Salaries can differ between urban and rural areas due to cost of living and local market demand. The type of facility also matters, with larger, more specialised facilities sometimes offering better remuneration packages than smaller providers or home care settings. Agency work can offer higher hourly rates but with less security than permanent employment.
Comparison of Care Worker Salaries (Approximate 2025 Figures)
| Factor | Aged Care Worker | Disability Support Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Award | Aged Care Award | SCHADS Award |
| Min. Entry Hourly (Perm.) | ~ $26.51 (Level 1) | ~ $33.41 (Level 2.1) |
| Min. Entry Hourly (Casual) | Casual loading on top | ~ $41.76 (Level 2.1) |
| Key Pay Driver | Experience and Classification Level | Experience and Pay Point |
| Average Annual (Approx.) | $70,000 - $80,000 | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| Penalties | Weekend, Public Holiday, Night | Weekend, Public Holiday, Night, Broken Shift |
| Primary Funding | Aged Care Subsidy & Gov. Investment | NDIS & Gov. Funding |
Career Progression and Maximising Your Earnings
Care work offers excellent opportunities for career growth. Progressing from an entry-level Personal Care Assistant to a senior role, or moving into a supervisory or management position, will result in higher pay. Experienced workers can also pursue specialised clinical roles or move into administrative positions within care organisations.
For more detailed information on pay rates, awards, and conditions, always consult the official guidance from the Fair Work Ombudsman, Australia's workplace relations regulator. Fair Work Ombudsman
Conclusion: A Rewarding Career with Increasing Pay
The Australian care sector is undergoing significant changes, driven by a commitment to properly valuing its workforce. For those considering a career or already working in the field, understanding the relevant awards, pay scales, and influencing factors is essential. While recent wage increases have improved financial rewards, continued career development and specialisation offer the best path to maximising earnings in this fulfilling and vital industry.
