Port Stephens TAFE training filling critical aged care and disability roles

TAFE NSW Tomaree Connected Learning Centre (CLC) is addressing workforce shortages across aged care and disability sectors in the Hunter New England by training a new wave of local, skilled workers.

As demand continues to grow for healthcare and social assistance workers, with more than 580,000 new jobs predicted by 2034, the TAFE NSW Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) is providing students with the practical, hands-on training they need to transition directly into local jobs and long-term careers.

For Tomaree local Natalie Lucas, the course offered not just a career path, but a life-changing experience.

“I’d put off studying for years,” said Natalie.

“School wasn’t a good experience for me, but my TAFE NSW teacher Hayley completely changed my mind.

“Her teaching style was so inclusive and interactive, no judgment, just real support. It made all the difference.”

After completing work placements at local facilities, Natalie has now secured employment with disability support provider On the Move Allied Health & Support Services.

With plans to keep growing in her healthcare career, she’s now set her sights on enrolling in a Diploma of Nursing through TAFE NSW.

“The placements really opened my eyes,” she said.

“You can’t fully prepare for what it’s like until you’re there, but the in-class training gave me such a strong foundation.

“It made me realise how rewarding this work is, and now I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

TAFE NSW teacher and registered nurse Hayley Strath has been delivering the Certificate III in Individual Support at TAFE NSW Tomaree CLC for the past 18 months.

She says the program’s success lies in its strong local connections and supportive learning environment.

“We may be a small facility, but we are mighty in our delivery and results,” Hayley said.

“We’re preparing students for real-world jobs with the same tools and equipment they’ll use in the workplace.

“They are completing training with us and going on to deliver care, right in the heart of their local community.”

Placement opportunities have grown significantly, thanks to partnerships with local organisations including Regis Aged Care, Uniting and Calvary Tanilba Shores.

These facilities provide practical experience in real care environments and are often quick to offer students employment after seeing their passion and preparedness first-hand.

Over half of students in the most recent TAFE NSW Tomaree CLC cohort secured jobs at the facilities where they completed their work placements.

Anne MacLeod, a local care sector manager, said the program is helping employers find much-needed staff, while giving students a meaningful start in a values-driven industry.

“We’re seeing students not only build confidence and competence during their placements but also form strong professional relationships that often lead directly to ongoing roles.”