AustCare director Graham Surtees says there are approximately 179,000 jobs currently in the aged care sector, but with the government’s prediction that it will need to double by 2050, there is now a huge demand on the need for proficient training.

“The issues are not only keeping up with the increasing number of carers required in the aged care industry, but also addressing the quality of these carers, so they have the skills to take on such a huge responsibility, which is ultimately people’s well-being,” notes Surtees.

“We have experienced a huge increase in demand to upskill people quickly, and the easiest way to do this is via online study, but we also need to ensure this meets industry standards including proficiency and compliance,” adds Surtees.

“It’s not just supplying the workforce,” says Surtees, “but ensuring they can do the job.”

AustCare is addressing this issue by partnering with online assessment and training solution provider Cloud Assess to facilitate quality training for the growing number of students required to fill the gap in the industry.

Cloud Assess have supported AustCare's transition to the cloud which allows them the flexibility to deliver their courses online, face-to-face or blended.

Cloud Assess managing director Rob Bright says AustCare is now prepared to handle the influx of students wanting to do their accredited aged care courses, continues to meet strict compliance protocols, and upholds the high standards of quality training delivered with the help of their integrated online solution.

“We’re delighted that our innovative software facilitates their rapid growth trajectory,” says Bright.

“More importantly, our software can allow an immersive level of interaction with students, with learning experiences, communications tools, and a dedicated Learner App to provide the best Learner Experience (LX) possible. We create a unique environment that optimises learning and skills development, specifically tuned to our customers learner demographics—even if it’s learning from afar,” explains Bright.

Bright adds that part of their services is to ensure that AustCare maintains its compliance.

“We offer unique solutions to ensure our clients are aligned to standards, including technology support authenticity, innovations to engage workplace supervisors in staff up-skilling, and provide peace of mind that records will not go missing and can be retained without the need for hundreds of filing cabinets and tonnes of paper,” says Bright.

According to AustCare online coordinator Renee Brown, COVID-19 has forced their business to pivot to online training and assessment, and Cloud Assess has been the company to help them transition, while still providing quality student-centred training.

“Since rolling out the online option for our Certificate III and Certificate IV Aged Care courses during COVID-19, there has been approximately one thousand online students who enrolled,” says Brown.

Cloud Assess set up the online delivery method of study with its software, and Brown says that students, including herself, find it easy to navigate.

“Using Cloud Assess allows us to connect and engage with our students, ensure that they are meeting all the minimum requirements of the course and ultimately helps us to assist them remotely to successfully complete their studies in order to find a work placement in aged care,” concludes Brown.