adminAustralia has become one of the most welcoming countries for foreign workers seeking visa sponsorship jobs in 2025. Among the most in-demand sectors is the home care industry, which continues to expand due to the country’s aging population and a national shortage of qualified caregivers.
Home care jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship offer not only stable employment but also an opportunity for immigrants to earn a competitive salary while contributing to a vital sector that improves the lives of the elderly and people with disabilities.
With the Australian government’s push to fill workforce gaps, thousands of visa sponsorship positions are now open for international applicants through programs like the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) visa.
Employers across states such as New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland are actively seeking home care professionals with both entry-level and experienced backgrounds, offering salaries that range from AUD $55,000 to over $85,000 per year depending on location and qualifications.
This article provides a detailed guide for anyone seeking to apply for home care jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship, explaining why the industry is booming, what kinds of roles are available, the skills employers are looking for, and which regions offer the most rewarding pay packages for immigrant caregivers.
Why Work in the Home Care Industry?
The Australian home care industry is one of the fastest-growing employment sectors, expected to add more than 100,000 new jobs by 2026 according to government projections.
This increase is driven by the growing demand for aged care, disability support, and community services, areas where skilled and compassionate workers are needed. For immigrants, this makes home care an exceptional opportunity to secure a sponsored job with permanent residency pathways.
The industry’s attractiveness lies not just in job availability but also in high earning potential and flexible working conditions. A full-time home care worker can earn an average annual salary between AUD $55,000 and $70,000, while senior carers, coordinators, and registered nurses in home care can earn up to AUD $90,000 or more.
Some rural employers also offer relocation bonuses, accommodation support, and overtime allowances, further increasing take-home pay.
Working in the home care sector is also emotionally rewarding. Employees assist elderly citizens, people recovering from illnesses, and individuals with disabilities, helping them live independently in their own homes.
This sense of purpose, combined with job security and competitive salaries, makes home care one of the best visa-sponsored industries for migrants entering the Australian labor market.
Australia’s government policies, particularly under the Aged Care Workforce Strategy, have reinforced the inclusion of international workers through employer sponsorship. The demand for workers is so high that many employers are willing to provide full visa sponsorship, training, and even assistance with accommodation upon arrival.
For workers from countries such as the Philippines, India, Nigeria, Kenya, and the UK, this represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to migrate legally, gain stable employment, and eventually qualify for permanent residency.
In addition, the home care industry offers diverse job categories, ensuring that workers from various backgrounds, healthcare, social work, nursing, or community support, can find a suitable niche.
From entry-level personal carers to specialized disability support workers, the career progression potential is extensive. Those who start with Certificate III or IV in Individual Support can later pursue nursing degrees, aged care management roles, or even open their own home care agencies in Australia.
Types of Home Care Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
The Australian home care sector employs thousands of professionals across different care levels. Many of these roles qualify for employer-sponsored visas, especially in regions facing acute workforce shortages.
Understanding the types of home care jobs available will help applicants identify which position best suits their qualifications and visa eligibility.
Personal Care Assistant (PCA)
A Personal Care Assistant is one of the most common roles under home care sponsorship. PCAs support clients with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, and mobility.
They also provide emotional support and companionship. Salaries for sponsored PCAs range from AUD $55,000 to $65,000 per year, with higher rates in regional areas due to government incentives.
Aged Care Worker
Aged Care Workers focus on helping elderly clients maintain comfort and dignity in their homes. With demand at an all-time high, many aged care employers are offering visa sponsorship for foreign-trained caregivers, especially those with aged care certifications. Salaries average AUD $60,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on the employer and experience level.
Disability Support Worker
Disability support is another key sector offering sponsorship opportunities. These workers help individuals with disabilities perform daily activities and engage with their communities. Employers often provide skilled worker sponsorship under the regional migration programs, and salaries typically range from AUD $65,000 to $80,000.
Home Health Nurse
Registered nurses who specialize in home health care are among the highest-paid professionals in the home care industry. They provide medical assessments, administer medication, and coordinate care plans. Home care nurses under sponsorship programs earn between AUD $80,000 and $95,000 annually, with additional benefits such as housing stipends or travel allowances in rural postings.
Live-In Caregiver
Live-in caregivers reside with their clients, providing 24-hour assistance. While this role demands more commitment, it offers attractive compensation, often AUD $70,000 to $90,000 annually including lodging and meals. Many Australian families and agencies are willing to sponsor overseas caregivers due to the limited local workforce available for such intensive roles.
Each of these job categories may qualify for different visa routes depending on skill level, employer location, and sponsorship eligibility. The Australian Department of Home Affairs continually updates the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to reflect in-demand roles, and nearly all the above-mentioned positions are currently included.
For international applicants seeking to work in Australia legally, applying for these jobs through visa sponsorship programs offers both employment and immigration security.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
One of the most appealing aspects of home care jobs in Australia is that entry-level applicants are welcome, provided they have the right combination of compassion, communication skills, and basic caregiving training.
Unlike high-level medical positions, many home care sponsorship jobs do not require a university degree, making them ideal for immigrants seeking stable employment with minimal qualification barriers.
To be competitive for visa sponsorship, applicants typically need a Certificate III or IV in Individual Support, Aged Care, or Disability Care. These qualifications can be earned locally or through approved international equivalents.
Some employers may also accept on-the-job experience if the applicant can demonstrate a proven record of caregiving or nursing assistance in a recognized facility abroad.
Essential skills include understanding client needs, maintaining hygiene standards, assisting with mobility, preparing meals, and administering basic first aid. English proficiency is also important, as applicants must meet the IELTS score of at least 5.0–6.0, depending on the visa subclass and employer requirements.
In addition, soft skills such as patience, empathy, and reliability play a major role in selection. Many employers provide free training or pay for upskilling once a worker arrives in Australia. For example, a home care agency in Queensland may offer a three-month paid training period to help foreign caregivers adapt to Australian standards of client care.
The average entry-level salary for home care workers starts at AUD $55,000 annually, but with experience and certifications, this can quickly rise to AUD $70,000 or more.
Workers with specialized skills, such as dementia care, palliative care, or disability support, are even more likely to receive visa sponsorship offers with long-term employment guarantees.
It’s also worth noting that regional employers, particularly in South Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia, are more likely to offer visa sponsorships to foreign workers with limited experience.
The Australian government provides financial incentives to employers in rural areas who sponsor international caregivers, ensuring that even first-time migrants can find rewarding opportunities and pathways to permanent residency.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Australia’s home care industry offers different pay structures depending on the region, cost of living, and demand for workers. Generally, home care salaries are higher in metropolitan and regional areas where there is a shortage of skilled caregivers.
Understanding which regions offer the best pay helps immigrants target the most rewarding visa sponsorship opportunities.
New South Wales (NSW)
New South Wales, particularly Sydney and surrounding suburbs, is one of the highest-paying regions for home care workers in Australia. Due to the state’s large elderly population and rising healthcare costs, many employers are willing to pay more to attract foreign talent.
A personal care assistant or home support worker in Sydney can earn between AUD $65,000 and $85,000 annually, while registered nurses in home care roles often make AUD $90,000 or more.
Employers in NSW are also among the top sponsors of the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa, offering permanent residency pathways after two to three years of work.
Victoria
Victoria, home to Melbourne, has seen rapid growth in the aged and disability care sectors. Many regional visa sponsorship jobs are available in Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo, areas with fewer local workers but high care demands.
Salaries in Victoria typically range from AUD $60,000 to $78,000, with extra allowances for night shifts and weekend work. Several Victorian home care providers are approved sponsors under the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186), giving workers a chance to transition to permanent residence after fulfilling visa terms.
Queensland
Queensland’s healthcare workforce shortage makes it one of the most active states for international recruitment. Brisbane, Cairns, and Townsville host hundreds of registered agencies seeking foreign caregivers with relevant certifications.
Sponsored home care workers in Queensland can expect salaries between AUD $58,000 and $75,000, with additional relocation support packages offered by employers to attract migrants to regional towns.
The state government encourages sponsorships through the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) visa, designed specifically for immigrants working outside major cities.
Western Australia
Western Australia, with its strong economy and lower population density, has consistently offered above-average wages to attract home care professionals. Employers in Perth and nearby regional centers offer salary packages between AUD $70,000 and $90,000 for experienced home care nurses and carers.
Sponsored workers in WA also benefit from lower housing costs and state incentives under the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), which simplifies visa sponsorship for regional employers.
South Australia and Tasmania
These two states have emerging opportunities in the home care and aged care sectors due to increasing demand and insufficient local labor.
Salaries in South Australia and Tasmania typically range from AUD $55,000 to $70,000, but many employers offer free accommodation and training as part of their sponsorship package. The cost of living is lower compared to larger cities, allowing foreign workers to save more while gaining Australian work experience.
Salary Expectations for Home Care Workers
Salary expectations in the Australian home care industry depend on factors such as job title, qualifications, work location, and years of experience.
The Australian Fair Work Commission ensures that workers in this sector receive fair wages, which increase annually with the national minimum wage adjustments. For migrants seeking visa sponsorship, these salaries are competitive and often come with additional benefits.
Entry-Level Caregivers
Newly sponsored caregivers or personal care assistants typically earn between AUD $55,000 and $65,000 per year. These positions may involve part-time or full-time contracts, with hourly rates ranging from AUD $28 to $35 per hour.
Entry-level roles are perfect for immigrants starting their careers in Australia’s healthcare system, and they often include paid on-the-job training.
Experienced Home Care Workers
With at least three years of experience, home care professionals can command salaries between AUD $70,000 and $85,000 annually.
Those specializing in areas such as dementia care, mental health support, or post-operative care are especially valuable to employers. Many of these positions include paid leave, health insurance coverage, and performance-based bonuses.
Registered Nurses and Supervisors
Registered nurses working within the home care sector earn some of the highest wages. Salaries typically range from AUD $85,000 to $95,000, while supervisory or coordination roles can exceed AUD $100,000 annually, especially in remote areas.
Senior home care managers overseeing multiple clients or facilities may earn even more, depending on their certifications and leadership experience.
Allowances and Additional Benefits
In addition to base salaries, home care workers under sponsorship programs may receive:
- Overtime pay and weekend bonuses
- Travel and mileage reimbursement
- Superannuation contributions (up to 11% of salary)
- Paid public holidays and sick leave
- Relocation assistance for regional placements
Considering all these factors, immigrants in Australia’s home care industry can earn competitive wages that rival many mid-level professional roles, all while building long-term career stability under sponsored employment.
Visa Types and Options for Home Care Workers
Australia offers several visa categories for foreign nationals interested in working in the home care industry. These visas allow employers to legally hire and sponsor overseas workers in critical skill areas. Choosing the right visa depends on the applicant’s qualifications, employer location, and work experience.
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
The Temporary Skill Shortage visa is the most common pathway for foreign home care workers. It allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers for up to four years, depending on the nominated occupation.
Workers under this visa can later apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme. To qualify, applicants must meet English language requirements, hold relevant care certifications, and have at least two years of experience in a related field.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
The ENS visa provides a permanent residency option for workers already employed under temporary sponsorship. Employers nominate the worker after a minimum work period (usually two to three years) and must prove that the position is full-time and ongoing.
Many home care organizations and aged care agencies actively use this visa to retain talented foreign workers. It is one of the most direct routes to becoming an Australian permanent resident while maintaining steady employment.
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. Sponsored workers may later transition to permanent residency after three years of employment.
Home care agencies in regional towns such as Toowoomba, Launceston, and Broome use this visa to fill labor shortages. It also offers additional points under the regional migration scheme, giving migrants a strong advantage in future residency applications.
Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)
Under the DAMA program, regional employers in certain areas have the flexibility to sponsor overseas workers for positions not always listed on the national skilled occupation list. Many home care roles, such as personal care attendants and disability support workers, are eligible under DAMA.
The agreements are designed to address labor shortages and simplify the visa process for regional employers willing to hire immigrants long-term.
Student and Working Holiday Pathways
For individuals already in Australia on student or working holiday visas, the home care sector offers a potential transition to employer sponsorship. Many international students studying healthcare or community service courses find full-time sponsorship after graduation.
Employers often prefer to sponsor workers who already understand Australian standards and can work independently. Each visa pathway has its own eligibility criteria, but all provide opportunities for immigrants to legally work, earn, and settle in Australia while contributing to the vital home care workforce.
How to Find Home Care Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Finding a home care job in Australia with visa sponsorship requires a targeted approach. As competition grows, applicants must identify legitimate employers, prepare strong resumes, and meet visa eligibility standards. Fortunately, several online platforms, recruitment agencies, and government programs connect qualified caregivers with approved sponsors.
Search on Official Job Portals
The most reliable sources for visa-sponsored home care jobs include:
- JobSearch
- Seek
- Indeed Australia
- CareerOne
- LinkedIn Job Listings
Using search terms like “Home Care Visa Sponsorship Australia,” “Aged Care Worker with Visa Sponsorship,” or “Disability Support Sponsorship Jobs” yields relevant results.
Applicants should carefully review job descriptions to ensure the employer is an approved sponsor by the Department of Home Affairs.
Apply Directly to Registered Care Agencies
Many home care organizations directly sponsor overseas workers. Some reputable agencies include:
- Bupa Aged Care
- Home Instead Senior Care
- Allity Aged Care
- Estia Health
- KinCare
Applicants should visit each company’s career portal, submit their resumes, and indicate willingness to relocate under sponsorship. Agencies often conduct virtual interviews and guide successful candidates through the visa application process.
Utilize Regional Migration Programs
Regional employers have a greater demand for foreign caregivers and are often more open to sponsorship. States like Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia provide regional occupation lists with home care positions that qualify for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa.
Applying through regional job networks increases the chances of sponsorship approval and may include financial relocation incentives.
Professional Resume and Interview Preparation
To secure sponsorship, applicants must present themselves as competent and reliable. A well-structured resume highlighting relevant caregiving experience, certifications, and English proficiency can make a strong impression. During interviews, showcasing empathy, patience, and knowledge of Australian care standards helps build trust with potential employers.
Stay Updated with Migration Policy Changes
Visa sponsorship policies and eligibility lists are updated regularly. Checking the Department of Home Affairs website and subscribing to industry newsletters ensures applicants stay informed about new opportunities or policy adjustments. Being proactive significantly boosts the chances of landing a sponsored home care job with long-term benefits.
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