If you’re passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives and want a meaningful career with strong job prospects, the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) is your gateway into one of Australia’s fastest-growing and most rewarding industries.
There are around 460,000 care and support workers across Australia and in recent years, it has grown three times faster than total employment in the country!
If you’re ready to start a career where you truly make a difference, the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) is an encouraging and empowering first step. As an entry-level qualification it can help you step confidently into the care sector.
There are two key industries this course prepares you for: aged care and disability. You can choose to specialise in one area or complete both streams, which is highly recommended. Many clients move between aged care and disability services over their lifetime, so employers may prefer staff who are qualified in both. Completing both specialisations can increase your job opportunities and flexibility across different care settings.
Aged care worker
Aged care workers support older people either in their homes or in residential facilities. You’ll assist with daily living activities like mobility, hygiene, meals, and emotional support, helping clients maintain dignity, connection, and independence.
With Australia’s ageing population and increased demand for support services, skilled workers are needed—making this a smart and future-focused option.
It’s a great choice because:
- high demand across Australia,
- deeply rewarding,
- people-focused and meaningful work,
- better job security
- flexible job opportunities, including part-time and shift work.
‘Australia is facing a shortage of at least 110,000 direct aged-care workers within the next decade…’ making aged care workers one of the most in demand employees around.
Disability support worker
As a disability support worker, you’ll help people with disability live with more independence and to participate in the community. You may work in in-home care, or community-based settings and, occasionally, residential facilities. You’ll support clients with everyday activities, life skills, and social inclusion.
Why it’s a great choice:
- opportunity to empower clients to live fuller lives,
- diverse work settings—homes, group residences,
- community settings,
- strong demand across metro and regional areas, as well as remote settings.
- job flexibility.
Around half the care and support workforce work part time.
Your launchpad into healthcare: work now, study for more later
The Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) qualification is also a fantastic stepping stone if you’re considering a future in healthcare. Many students use it as a testing ground of the industry before committing to further study and career paths. Having this qualification under your belt means that you can work in the above roles while studying nursing, allied health, or even explore areas like occupational therapy or leisure and health. Popular training pathways after this course can also include Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520) and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122).
With no entry requirements, this nationally recognised qualification is perfect for anyone looking to get job-ready and start making a real impact. You’ll learn how to provide physical support, personal care, and emotional assistance in both residential and in-home or community settings. You’ll also gain skills in promoting independence, health, and wellbeing—so the people you support can live fuller, more empowered lives.
At Time Education & Training, we know many of our students want to start as soon as possible. That’s why we provide programs with rolling intakes, and practical training that leads straight into the workforce. You’ll finish the course with real-world experience and the communication, care, and support skills employers need. The Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) gives you more than just a qualification—it opens the door to a flexible, stable, and purpose-driven career.
