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Support Worker Courses in Cairns

A Support Worker aids individuals and families facing difficulties by providing practical and emotional assistance in various settings.

    • AI Exposure: Low

      This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.

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  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • VIC
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a Support Worker in Cairns?

Get qualified to work as a Support Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time support worker generally earns $1,325 per week ($68,900 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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After a small dip, there were approximately 65,600 welfare support workers in Australia as of May 2019. That number is expected to grow to approximately 80,500 by May 2024. From 2018-2023 there is expected to be 30,000 job openings.

Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections and Australian Government Job Outlook

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In many cases, you will need qualification in a field such as community services or a similar area of support to pursue a support worker job. The exact level of qualification required can change from role to role. A Certificate II of Community Services and Certificate III of Community Services can take anywhere from 12-24 months each depending on if you study on campus or online and if you study full or part time. Many positions often require you to obtain a working with children check, first aid certificate and national police check.

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Further reading

What do social workers do?

11th December 2019

How to start a career in Disability Care

12th April 2021

7 reasons to start a career in community services

15th June 2018

All support worker courses

Support Worker careers

For those looking to start a rewarding career in the caring professions, there are numerous Support Worker courses in Cairns available, designed to cater to various levels of experience. With a strong emphasis on Vocational Education and Training (VET), learners can choose from a selection of beginner courses, including the popular Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) CHC33021 and Certificate II in Community Services CHC22015. These courses provide the foundation needed to embark on a career as a Community Support Worker or an Mental Health Support Worker, making them ideal for learners with no prior qualifications.

For experienced practitioners, the advanced Certificate IV in Ageing Support CHC43015 and the Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health offer in-depth knowledge and skills. These advanced Support Worker courses in Cairns empower learners to take on roles such as a Social Worker or Family Counsellor, allowing them to make a meaningful impact in the community.

The Support Worker job roles span a variety of fields of study, including Community Services courses and Counselling. Professionals in these roles often work in conjunction with teams to offer support and intervention strategies in various scenarios. With the available Course in Supporting People With Disability To Use Medications, for instance, learners can expand their expertise and open doors to careers as Rehabilitation Counsellors or Crisis Support Workers.

Cairns offers a dynamic environment for aspiring Support Workers, with a variety of training providers that are registered and recognised by industry bodies. By enrolling in qualified Community Development Worker courses, individuals can gain the skills necessary for impactful careers in different sectors, including social justice advocacy and community outreach. Those keen to contribute positively to society through caring and support roles should explore the comprehensive range of Support Worker courses in Cairns to begin their journey today.