Many healthcare providers find it hard to understand Australia’s aged care labor agreements in 2025. The list has grown by a lot since May 5, 2023, and helps address worker shortages throughout the country.
These agreements target direct care workers and have shown great results. Three major providers’ success stories stand out – Estia, Aegis, and Opal have agreements that cover 25,000 workers. This shows how well the initiative works. It’s worth mentioning that these agreements only cover Nursing Support Workers, Personal Care Assistants, and Aged or Disabled Carers. Registered and enrolled nurses aren’t part of this program.
The industry keeps evolving. As of February 5, 2025, 13 approved aged care facilities have active labor agreements. Each facility offers different opportunities to international workers and healthcare professionals. Understanding these agreements is vital for facility managers who want to build stronger teams and healthcare professionals looking to work in Australia.
1. Estia Healthcare’s Labor Agreement Implementation
Estia Health leads Australia’s aged care sector with a new labor agreement approved in May 2024 for its South Australian operations. This agreement helps tackle the workforce challenges the sector faces.
Estia’s Agreement Coverage Areas
The labor agreement covers Estia’s network of residential aged care facilities in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. The agreement serves both metropolitan and regional locations, though rural areas still struggle with staffing due to fierce competition for resources.
Worker Categories Under Agreement
Estia’s workforce structure has these key roles:
- Direct care staff members
- Maintenance officers
- Lifestyle coordinators
- Personal care workers
- Enrolled nurses
- Care directors
Women make up 87% of the workforce, and 37% of workers were born overseas. The staff’s diversity shows in the 23% who speak another language at home.
Facility Locations and Capacity
Estia runs 78 residential aged care services across the country. Recent growth shows:
- Five new homes with 533 operating places in FY23
- A 24-place expansion at Estia Health Burton in South Australia
- Two more homes from Royal Freemasons in Victoria that add 264 places
The facilities show strong occupancy rates:
- Valley View has 84 operating places with 79 care recipients
- Golden Grove has 102 operating places with 101 care recipients
Success Metrics
The agreement brings impressive results:
- Staff numbers grew by 1,126 in 2024
- Metropolitan areas now have better workforce availability
- Dedicated talent teams improved recruitment
- Refundable accommodation deposits showed strong growth, adding to a total cashflow of AUD 131.03 million
Estia’s size as a major provider helps fund career paths and better recruitment systems. The company’s competitive pay packages help attract and keep top talent in the sector.
2. Aegis Aged Care’s National Framework
Aegis Aged Care Group, 40 years old, stands as Western Australia’s largest privately-owned residential aged care provider. The group supports over 3,000 elderly residents and has more than 4,500 staff members.
Agreement Scope and Scale
The labor agreement makes it easier to recruit qualified direct care workers in three key positions:
- Nursing Support Worker (ANZSCO 423312)
- Personal Care Assistant (ANZSCO 423313)
- Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111)
Aegis runs 30 quality aged care homes throughout Perth Metropolitan and South-West areas. These facilities stretch from Alkimos in the North to Broadwater in Busselton.
Worker Benefits Package
The benefits package has:
- Paid sick leave
- Superannuation
- Paid holiday and vacation time
- Education and training reimbursement
- Clothing allowance
Workers receive a minimum annual salary of AUD 78,317.94 or the Australian Market Salary Rate, whichever is higher. The agreement offers English language concessions to overseas workers. IELTS requirements are 5.0 for standard providers and 4.5 for culturally diverse facilities.
Implementation Timeline
The agreement rolls out in these steps:
- Setting up a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with relevant unions
- Submitting labor agreement request through ImmiAccount
- Getting Department of Home Affairs assessment and approval
- Processing nomination and visa applications
Overseas workers can get both temporary and permanent residency through:
- Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) after two years
State-wise Distribution
Aegis’s strong presence spans Western Australia with facilities in:
- Perth Metropolitan region
- South-West areas
- Regional centers
The organization showed its steadfast dedication to green practices through careful financial management. Their authorized financial statements came out on October 30, 2023. Department of Health funding helps maintain a stable operational framework.
The agreement puts residents first. They keep their independence while getting the support they need. This matches the aged care system’s main goal – helping older Australians stay independent and well.
3. Opal Healthcare’s Multi-State Agreement
Opal Healthcare is a 133-year-old private aged care provider in Australia. It serves around 7,350 residents through its network of aged care homes across the country.
Coverage Across States
The company’s nationwide presence includes:
- 47 facilities in New South Wales
- Care communities throughout Victoria
- Strategic locations in Queensland
- A strong foothold in Western Australia
The company grew its team in 2023 by bringing 22 new staff members from Fiji. These team members now work in care communities like Denhams Beach, Orange Grove, Killarney Vale, Kanwal Gardens, Wallarah Point, and Norah Head.
Workforce Development Plans
The Opal Healthcare Academy, now 4 years old, stands at the heart of the company’s workforce strategy. The academy works together with:
- Universities
- TAFE institutions
- Tertiary education providers
- Community organizations
About 9,615 team members work at Opal Healthcare, mostly in clinical, nursing, and resident-facing care positions. The company maintains a 70:30 gender balance ratio in leadership roles.
Facility Specializations
Each care community provides specialized services such as:
- Permanent residential aged care
- Day respite services
- Long-term respite care
- Dementia care
- Palliative care
Allied health partners run wellness centers in these facilities that focus on:
- Rehabilitation programs
- Restorative care initiatives
- Reablement services
Agreement Benefits
Staff members received significant benefits from the new enterprise agreement:
- A 10.7% pay increase over three years starting July 2023
- Three extra sick leave days for infectious diseases
- Sick leave pool access during serious illness
- Two additional weeks of parental leave
- Up to 20 days of domestic violence leave
NSW staff showed strong support with 71% voting yes to the agreement. This package builds on the previous 15% award increase for nurses and carers. Regular staff meetings and systematic workload management procedures help maintain quality resident care and balanced workloads.
The agreement makes visa processes easier for overseas workers. Staff with community language skills need an IELTS score of 4.5 instead of 5.0.
4. SwanCare Western Australia Initiative
SwanCare has grown into a leading aged care provider in Western Australia since 1961. The organization now serves over 1,100 residents at multiple facilities.
Facility Overview
SwanCare runs four residential aged care centers at Western Australia’s largest full-service site for aged care and retirement living. These facilities include:
- SwanCare Kingia: An 82-bed facility with 24-hour nursing care
- SwanCare Tandara: A home for 78 residents with detailed medical support
- SwanCare Waminda: A community of 120 residents focused on independent living
- SwanCare Ningana: A facility with 131 rooms and round-the-clock healthcare services
The organization’s annual turnover is AUD 30.58 million, which is a big deal as it means they can support more than 700 staff members. The General Manager Health and Aged Care Services oversees each care center to maintain consistent service quality.
Agreement Highlights
The labour agreement has been approved and focuses on direct care occupations with several benefits:
- An optimized visa nomination process for qualified overseas workers
- A two-year path to permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme
- Fast-track visa application processing
- Language concessions for workers with community language skills
- Annual salary starting at AUD 78,317.94 or higher based on Australian Market Salary Rate
Workers must have relevant AQF Certificate III qualifications or equivalent and prove their English language skills through IELTS testing.
Implementation Progress
SwanCare adapts its facilities to meet changing care needs. The organization’s major refurbishment project at Waminda will finish in September 2025. The project includes:
- A floor-by-floor renovation plan with resident relocation
- Better dining areas on completed floors
- Noise reduction strategies during construction
- Protected meal and quiet times
- Noise-canceling headphones for residents
- Alternative living spaces across the campus
SwanCare’s strategic collaborations with industry unions show in their recent Memorandum of Understanding. This partnership helps implement workforce strategies and maintain high care standards.
The organization prepares for changes in client needs and service delivery. SwanCare’s waitlist for independent retirement living keeps growing, and they’re getting ready to meet this increased demand.
5. Kaloma Home Goondiwindi Agreement
Kaloma Home for the Aged sits at Goondiwindi’s heart in Queensland. This 69-bed facility shows what community-driven aged care excellence looks like through its new labor agreement. The facility stands out because of its culturally relevant care and deep community roots.
Facility Specialties
Kaloma’s care model puts individual attention first. Residents stay active through wellness programs that feature exercise classes, crafts, and painting. The facility takes residents out to movies and restaurants. Local musicians play music regularly, and residents who love flowers can keep their passion alive through flower arranging.
Recent accreditation results prove Kaloma’s high clinical care standards. The facility met 42 of 44 expected outcomes. Their complete service package gives residents:
- Flexible home care choices
- Four home care package levels
- Nursing care from registered staff
- Help with personal care
- Support to stay socially active
Rural Care Focus
Kaloma’s community ownership makes it special. The facility values each resident’s emotional and spiritual identity. Families play a big role in care decisions. The environment stays peaceful and safe. Each resident keeps their unique personality.
A site audit from June 11-13, 2024, led to Kaloma’s re-accreditation until August 20, 2027. The facility delivers excellent service through skilled staff, experienced coordinators, and dedicated nurses. Residents join budget talks, and the team produces monthly reports.
Agreement Impact
The new aged care industry labor agreement has changed Kaloma significantly. Staff now stay longer, services have grown, community ties are stronger, and residents feel more satisfied with their care.
Quality stays high through constant monitoring, careful incident reporting, smart stock control, and regular maintenance.
The clinical team checks health needs monthly and reviews how well the care works. Kaloma partners with trusted suppliers for medicines, security, cleaning products, and health services. These partnerships show their dedication to quality care.
6. Lutheran Services Queensland Partnership
Image Source: The Weekly SOURCE
Lutheran Services has been serving communities since 1935. The organization recently joined the federal government’s Aged Care Industry Labor Agreement to tackle workforce challenges in Queensland’s aged care sector.
Service Coverage
Lutheran Services helps over 6,000 people each year through its government-approved and subsidized residential aged care facilities across Queensland. Their services include:
- Residential aged care services
- Retirement living communities
- Home care support
- Disability services
- Mental health assistance
- Family violence support programs
Agreement Features
The new five-year labor agreement brings valuable benefits for international workers. Workers can expect:
- Full-time employment opportunities
- Two-year pathway to permanent residency
- Simplified visa processing
- Roles for nursing support workers, personal care assistants, and aged carers
Workers must receive at least AUD 78,317.94 annually or the current Australian Market Salary Rate, whichever is higher. The agreement also helps workers with community language skills by lowering IELTS requirements from 5.0 to 4.5.
Implementation Status
Lutheran Services leads the way as one of Queensland’s first providers to secure this agreement. Their plan covers:
- Strategic workforce development:
- Quick solutions for critical staffing shortages
- Regional area recruitment focus
- Simplified overseas worker recruitment process
- Quality assurance measures:
- Compliance with the Aged Care Act 1997
- Federal and State Government operational funding
- Australian Accounting Standards implementation
The organization wants to maintain service quality while adapting to new aged care needs. Chief Executive Nick Ryan believes this initiative is a vital step toward building a skilled workforce that can handle complex compliance requirements and serve an aging population better.
7. McLean Care’s Dual-State Operations
McLean Care stands out in the aged care sector with its budget-friendly solutions and exceptional service coverage in New South Wales and Queensland. The organization helps over 3,200 residents and clients and provides 242,516 hours of residential and in-home care each year.
NSW-QLD Coverage
McLean Care runs six residential facilities in northern New South Wales and south-east Queensland. These facilities provide complete services:
- Long-term residential care
- Specialized dementia support
- Palliative care services
- Respite care options
Registered nurses work around the clock at each facility with dedicated leisure and lifestyle teams. Their biggest facility in Inverell, NSW has 138 beds.
Workforce Strategy
McLean Care provides jobs to over 621 Australians and takes innovative steps to tackle workforce challenges:
The organization created iAgeHealth, Australia’s first virtual on-demand service for aged care. This innovative solution gives residents:
- 24/7 access to registered nurses
- Allied health teams available all week
- End-to-end diagnostic services
- Treatment and care management support
Rural and remote areas in Australia now have better healthcare access through this service. Multiple clinical case studies show improved health outcomes.
Implementation Timeline
Their labor agreement lines up with the new Aged Care Act, which starts on July 1, 2025. The agreement focuses on:
- Quality Assurance:
- Regular business unit reporting
- Complete incident monitoring
- Feedback and complaints management
- Clinical governance oversight
- Service Enhancement:
- Annual consumer surveys
- Consumer advisory committee establishment
- Strategic collaborations with general practitioners
- Coordinated palliative care delivery
McLean Care’s board includes directors who are skilled at business process optimization, transformational change, and aged care system reform. This experienced leadership ensures strong governance.
8. Pennwood Aged Care Services Agreement
Pennwood Village expertly serves aged care needs throughout South Australia with evidence of culturally sensitive care delivery. This not-for-profit organization operates under the Serbian Community Welfare Association of SA Inc. They provide specialized support to residents from various cultural backgrounds.
Facility Overview
The Pennington-based facility has 60 beds and currently serves 50 residents. About 30 residents need high-level care. Their quality standards shine through a successful re-accreditation audit from July 24-26, 2024. This certification extends through October 20, 2027.
The facility’s complete care framework includes:
- 24/7 nursing supervision
- Specialized cultural and linguistic support
- Continuous improvement initiatives
- Strong quality assurance systems
Agreement Specifics
The labor agreement matches the new Aged Care Act starting July 1, 2025. Essential elements include:
- Optimized recruitment processes for overseas workers
- Direct care occupations focus
- Priority visa processing
- Simple nomination procedures
Required qualifications include:
- AQF Certificate III or equivalent qualification
- Positive skills assessment from recognized authorities
- English proficiency requirements from IELTS 4.5 to 5.5
Worker Benefits
Pennwood’s workforce enjoys several advantages:
- Salary packaging options
- Meal and entertainment cards with tax benefits
- Career growth paths
- Support for nursing qualifications
The facility’s mutually beneficial alliances with industry unions help implement workforce strategies effectively. Their steadfast dedication to staff development shows in their success rate of supporting care workers who become enrolled and registered nurses.
Regular audits, surveys, and feedback mechanisms help drive continuous improvement. Their information system provides secure data storage with daily electronic backups and quick reporting processes.
9. Mt View Homes Labor Framework
Mt View Homes stands proudly in South Australia’s Southern Flinders Ranges. This aged care facility has earned its place in the aged care labor agreement framework and serves the Mount Remarkable District Council area with specialized care services.
Facility Specializations
The facility’s 30-bed setup delivers tailored care that sets it apart from others. Their high standards shine through:
- Round-the-clock nursing care from qualified staff
- Expert support for dementia and related disorders
- Complete palliative care services
- Flexible respite options
Each resident enjoys a private room with modern amenities. These rooms come with electronic adjustable beds, built-in wardrobes, and personal climate control. The 14-square-meter spaces include nurse call points, grab rails, and landline phone connections.
Agreement Features
Staff development lies at the heart of their labor agreement:
- Well-laid-out yearly training schedules
- Service Coordination qualifications at Certificate IV level
- New staff skill evaluations
- Staff performance tracking systems
The team enjoys excellent benefits:
- Attractive salary packages above the AUD 78,317.94 minimum
- Career growth opportunities
- Specialized training programs
- Regular performance feedback
Implementation Progress
Several key initiatives showcase Mt View Homes’ soaring success:
- Smart workforce planning:
- Skilled professional recruitment drives
- Nursing qualification advancement programs
- Continuous staff learning and growth
- Quality standards:
- Consistent compliance checks
- Proactive risk management
- Resident satisfaction monitoring
Allied health professionals visit regularly, and doctors make weekly rounds. Their latest strategic plan shows their steadfast dedication to safe practices and culturally aware care.
The facility adapts smoothly to new aged care reform requirements. They protect their reputation as a leading provider through excellent governance and compliance standards. Their work continues to boost aged care services in the community.
10. Jallarah Homes Care Initiative
Image Source: Fair Work Commission
Jallarah Homes Incorporated is a community-owned not-for-profit organization in South Australia’s Coorong District. This 42-year-old facility delivers exceptional aged care services. The organization serves elderly residents with a detailed care approach.
Service Scope
Jallarah Homes runs a 30-bed facility in Meningie. The facility operates at full capacity with 17 high-care residents. Their services include:
- Residential aged care services
- Respite care options
- Independent living solutions
The facility’s excellence shows in its perfect score – meeting all 44 expected outcomes of the Accreditation Standards. They received re-accreditation until October 13, 2026, which proves their quality care delivery.
Agreement Highlights
International workers get significant benefits from the labor agreement:
- Efficient visa nomination process
- Priority application processing
- English language concessions for workers with community language skills
- Minimum annual salary of AUD 78,317.94
Department of Health funding helps maintain strong financial management. Regular auditing systems track regulatory compliance.
Worker Categories
Jallarah’s staff includes:
- Full-time employees working 38 hours weekly
- Regular part-time staff with agreed rostering arrangements
- Casual employees
- Replacement workers
- Enrolled nurses
- Registered nurses
- Student nurses
Staff members can access educational resources through the Aged Care Channel. The local professional team goes through regular performance reviews to ensure quality care.
Jallarah uses clear communication channels with activities calendars, noticeboards, handbooks, newsletters, and regular meetings. A preventative maintenance schedule keeps equipment in top shape, so services run smoothly.
11. Adelaide Quality Care Partnership
Image Source: Migration Affairs
Adelaide Quality Care stands out as a prominent home care service provider that secured a groundbreaking labor agreement in early 2025. This agreement represents significant progress in tackling workforce challenges in South Australia’s aged care sector.
Service Areas
The organization provides complete nursing services that include:
- Wound care and dressing management
- Pain management assistance
- General health assessments
- Injection administration
Their care services go beyond medical support and offer:
- Group activities that boost social connections
- Meal preparation and nutritional planning
- Transportation assistance
- Home maintenance support
Agreement Features
The 2025 labor agreement brings several important changes:
- Up to four staff members can receive permanent residency yearly
- Measures to boost workforce stability
- Business growth investment opportunities
- Programs that develop team members
The agreement went through detailed evaluation with multiple assessment contacts:
- June 19-20, 2024: Performance assessment
- August 15-17, 2023: Quality standards review
- October 11-13, 2022: Complete quality audit
Implementation Status
The implementation shows remarkable results through:
- Successful permanent residency approvals
- Gigi, the first team member, received permanent residency
- More applications are being processed
- Quality Assurance Measures
- Regular performance checks
- Systematic assessment contacts
- Detailed documentation procedures
The organization works closely with the United Workers Union to apply workforce strategies effectively. Their steadfast dedication to excellence shows in their strategic collaboration with the Department for Health and Wellbeing. They establish yearly service agreements that set clear performance goals.
Adelaide Quality Care’s information management systems help maintain clear communication through regular updates, newsletters, and team meetings. Their preventative maintenance schedule helps coordinate equipment upkeep and ensures quality service delivery in all care areas.
12. Rubies Nursing Care ACT Agreement
Rubies Nursing Care operates from Crace, ACT. The company has grown into multiple states through a mutually beneficial alliance that boosts its workforce capabilities. They provide specialized support in community care, disability services, and healthcare.
Facility Overview
Rubies Nursing delivers its services through:
- Community and disability support programs
- Healthcare facility partnerships
- Short and long-term contract arrangements
The organization’s commitment to aged care standards stands out. Their adherence to quality measures in 2023-24 shows excellence in:
- Choice and dignity priorities
- Personal care standards
- Staff conduct protocols
- Financial management practices
Agreement Specifics
Their labor agreement focuses on building a strong workforce through well-laid-out recruitment paths. The organization’s network includes:
- Registered nurses
- Disability support workers
- Personal carers
- Case managers
Their services cover several key areas:
- Aged care and disability services
- Locum contracts for medical professionals
- Community support initiatives
- Palliative and end-of-life care
Implementation Progress
Quality remains their top priority, shown through:
- Regular performance checks via assessment contacts
- Quality audits between 2020-2023
- Detailed performance reporting systems
The facility went through several evaluations:
- Quality audit (November 2-4, 2022)
- Assessment contact (April 13, 2023)
- Performance review (March 31, 2022)
Strong partnerships with hospitals and healthcare facilities help Rubies Nursing provide flexible staffing solutions. They serve New South Wales, ACT, and Victoria. Their network of skilled professionals ensures excellent care in all service areas.
The organization stays open 24/7 and offers permanent and temporary staffing options. Their service structure blends naturally with the National Disability Insurance Scheme. They support various needs including daily tasks, community nursing care, and household help.
Comparison Table
| Facility Name | Location/Coverage | Facility Capacity | Key Services/Specializations | Agreement Benefits | Implementation Status |
| Estia Healthcare | QLD, NSW, VIC, SA | 78 residential facilities, 533+ operating places | Direct care, maintenance, lifestyle coordination, enrolled nursing | Competitive remuneration, career pathways, improved recruitment systems | Increased workforce by 1,126 employees (2024) |
| Aegis Aged Care | Western Australia | 30 facilities, 3,000+ residents | Nursing support, personal care, aged care services | Min. salary AUD 78,317.94, English concessions, paid benefits package | Active implementation with union MoU |
| Opal Healthcare | NSW, VIC, QLD, WA | 133 aged care homes, 7,350 residents | Permanent residential care, respite, dementia care, palliative care | 10.7% pay increase, additional leave benefits, visa priority processing | 71% staff approval in NSW |
| SwanCare | Western Australia | 4 facilities, 411 beds total | 24-hour nursing care, complete medical support | Optimized visa process, two-year permanent residency pathway | Major refurbishment ongoing until Sept 2025 |
| Kaloma Home | Goondiwindi, QLD | 69 beds | Wellness programs, community involvement, specialized entertainment | Improved workforce stability, expanded service delivery | Re-accredited until August 2027 |
| Lutheran Services | Queensland | Not mentioned | Residential care, retirement living, home care, disability services | Full-time employment, two-year permanent residency pathway | Original implementation phase as first QLD provider |
| McLean Care | NSW, QLD | 6 facilities, 3,200+ residents | Long-term residential care, dementia support, palliative care | 24/7 registered nurse coverage, virtual care services | Preparing for new Aged Care Act (July 2025) |
| Pennwood | South Australia | 60 beds | Cultural and linguistic support, round-the-clock nursing | Salary packaging, meal benefits, career advancement | Re-accredited until October 2027 |
| Mt View Homes | South Australia | 30 beds | Dementia care, palliative care, respite services | Min. salary AUD 78,317.94, professional development | Active implementation with strategic planning |
| Jallarah Homes | South Australia | 30 beds | Residential care, respite care, independent living | Optimized visa process, priority processing | Re-accredited until October 2026 |
| Adelaide Quality Care | South Australia | Not mentioned | Wound care, pain management, social involvement | Permanent residency pathway, workforce stability measures | Original implementation with first PR approvals |
| Rubies Nursing | ACT, NSW, VIC | Multiple facilities | Community support, disability services, palliative care | Structured recruitment pathways, flexible staffing | Active implementation with regular audits |
Conclusion
Australian healthcare’s workforce challenges are seeing positive changes through 12 approved aged care labor agreements. Each facility has created a unique agreement that fits its local needs and operations instead of using one standard approach.
Big players in the industry are showing the way forward. Estia, Aegis, and Opal Healthcare have developed complete frameworks that cover thousands of workers. Small facilities like Kaloma Home and Jallarah Homes prove these agreements work just as well in community settings.
Workers get solid benefits from these agreements. They can earn a minimum yearly salary of AUD 78,317.94 and benefit from faster visa processing with clear paths to permanent residency. The facilities have seen more stable workforces and better care delivery as a result.
The numbers paint a clear picture of success. Estia brought in 1,126 new employees in 2024, while Opal’s agreement got a thumbs up from 71% of their staff. These results show how labour agreements help solve staffing shortages without compromising care quality.
Australian aged care facilities are ready for the new Aged Care Act coming in July 2025. Their trailblazing solutions help them provide better care for an aging population.