Are You Over 50 With A 2023 Resolution To Find Work?

Over 50 and seeking to rejoin the workforce? The campaign against workplace ageism is in progress - and we need you in the care sector!

© Danielle Robertson Consulting Pty Ltd t/as DR Care Solutions

Studies show Australia is a tough place for those over 50 looking for work. A Human Rights Commission Report^[1] found that 10% of Australian bosses will not hire people over 50.

With one in every three Australians now over 50 years of age^[2] a decision not to employ this demographic substantially reduces your field of choice.

Certainly, it makes no sense at a time when the country is experiencing labour shortages, particularly in aged care sector, and when Australians are enjoying one of the longest life expectancies in the world.

Ageism awareness is growing

Thankfully, the Benevolent Society is representing this untapped workforce and campaigning against ageism in the workplace through the annual Ageism Awareness Day.

Their catch cry:

Australians are living longer, enjoying good health, wanting to work and needing to remain involved for their own mental and financial health.

Spokesperson for the 2022 Ageism Awareness Day, Ita Buttrose, Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, describes ageism as “the biggest discrimination in the workplace”.^[3]

By coincidence, in the same month that Ageism Awareness Day was launched in November 2019, Ita at 77 years of age was appointed to chair the ABC. The appointment exemplifies what wisdom, knowledge and networks developed over a lifetime can bring to a role.

Ita explains:

“As I got older I understand people so much better and you [older workers] bring this to everything you do.”

Incentives for both employers and the over 50 unemployed to act

To those employers who argue older workers cannot be retrained, her response is definitive. They can and they come highly motivated with the desire to feel valued, have purpose, overcome loneliness, and participate in everyday life.

For many the rising cost of living is another good reason to work. To overcome acute labour shortages, on 2 September 2022, the Commonwealth Government increased the amount of income that can be earned by pensioners by $4,000 (up until 30 June 2023). This means pensioners can earn up to $11,800 before their pension is reduced^[4].

Consider joining the aged care workforce

If you are seeking work, I encourage you to consider a rewarding career in the care sector. With ‘life’ wisdom and keenness to work, the care sector needs you!

With the Fair Work Commission recently announcing an interim 15% wage increase for aged care workers, and considering a possible 25% increase overall, it is a good time to join.

And the jobs are there. The aged care sector is currently looking to fill between 30,000 to 35,000 care roles^[5] across the country.

Explore the free aged care and disability training available through a number of registered training organisations. As an example, take a look at the free NSW TAFE Courses available^[6].

Make the change in 2023!

Let 2023 be the year you get back to work and join the many Australians who are discovering the rewarding contribution they can make to the lives of our seniors.

Determined to organise care assistance for your loved one in 2023? Please feel free to call me, Danielle Robertson, for an initial discussion on how to set up the right care, support and assistance at the right time and in the right place.

Resources

^[1] Australian Human Rights Commission: Force The Facts - Older Australians
^[2] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare: Older Australians - Demographic Profile
^[3] ABC: Battling Ageism - How Ita Buttrose Is Trying To Change Minds
^[4] Prime Minister of Australia: Giving Older Australians The Option To Work And Earn More
^[5] DR Care Solutions: Aged Care Workers - Finding & Paying A New Aged Care Workforce
^[6] TAFE NSW: Certificate III In Individual Support (Home & Community)