HESTA recently unveiled its State of the Sector Workforce study, providing fresh insights into the experiences of health and community services workers across Australia. The survey of more than 4,200 workers revealed that aged care employees report some of the highest levels of enjoyment in the sector, highlighting the strong sense of purpose and fulfilment many feel in their roles.
However, the findings also show that significant challenges remain, with workers calling for better support, resourcing and workplace conditions.
So, where is the aged care sector performing well, and where is there still room for improvement?
What the sector is doing well
Aged care workers report high levels of job satisfaction, with 64 per cent saying they enjoy their work. This is an increase of 10 percentage points since the first survey in 2020, suggesting improving sentiment in the sector. Enhancing job satisfaction in the industry is crucial to attract and retain high-quality staff.
Workers also ranked second across all health and community services for feeling energised in their roles.
For many, aged care is highly fulfilling, with 56 per cent of workers describing their jobs as rewarding.
That sense of reward often comes from relationship-based care—supporting older people to maintain independence, dignity and connection, even in challenging circumstances.
There has also been an increase in the number of aged care workers who report they feel valued. HESTA attributes this to wage increases that were awarded to aged care workers in 2023 and 2024. While pay is only one part of the picture, it can influence whether workers feel their skills and responsibilities are recognised. This is particularly important for roles involving complex care needs.
According to HESTA chief executive Debby Blakey, the research shows most people enter the sector to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“Our healthcare professionals are the backbone of Australia’s healthcare and social systems, and what stands out in the research is why they are in the industry – to make a difference within our communities,” said Ms Blakey.
This purpose-driven motivation is a strength for employers to build on. It is even more powerful when combined with clear training pathways and supportive leadership.
Aged care workers are also leading the health workforce in adapting to technology. 67 per cent of aged care workers say they have been provided with training and support in this area.
Is there room for improvement?
The research also indicates that more needs to be done to support aged care workers in the workplace. Less than half of workers surveyed felt their employer acts in their best interests, and only 40 per cent said they felt supported to reach their full potential.
These results point to a gap between the personal satisfaction many workers feel and the day-to-day conditions that shape their workload and wellbeing.
Experts say this highlights the ongoing impact of under-resourcing, staffing shortages and high workloads, which continue to place pressure on the aged care workforce. Over time, these pressures can affect morale, increase turnover and make it harder for services to deliver consistent, high-quality care.
Despite the challenges the sector faces, demand for aged care services continues to rise, and workers report high levels of job satisfaction and purpose. This makes aged care one of Australia’s most rewarding and in-demand career paths. For job seekers, it can also be a field with diverse entry points. These range from personal care and lifestyle roles through to aged care administration, support coordination, and leadership pathways. Whether you are entering the sector for the first time or looking to progress into a new role, presenting your skills, values and experience clearly to employers is essential.
Are you looking for a new career? Aged Care Resumes is pleased to offer various services including our resume writing service and cover letter writing service. We can help you highlight the qualities employers look for in aged care. These include empathy, reliability, communication skills and a commitment to person-centred care.
Article References
Australian Aging Agenda (November 2025) ‘Aged care workers report high industry enjoyment’, Australian Aging Agenda accessed 29 January 2026
Hesta (November 2025) ‘state of the sector reports’, Hesta, accessed 29 January 2026