Aged Care Employee Day is held on 7 August each year to recognise the people who support older Australians across the aged care sector. From nurses and personal care workers to lifestyle coordinators and home care workers, thousands of people help older Australians maintain their independence, wellbeing and quality of life. Understanding the different roles within aged care can help families appreciate the workforce behind care and make more informed decisions when choosing support for a loved one.
Key Takeaways
- Aged Care Employee Day is held every year on 7 August to recognise the people who support older Australians.
- More than 450,000 people work across Australia’s aged care sector in roles ranging from nurses and personal care workers to lifestyle coordinators and support staff.
- Aged care workers provide essential support in both residential aged care and home care services, like Support at Home.
- Finding the right care provider means finding a team that understands your loved one’s needs, preferences and goals.
- Aged Care Decisions helps families compare available care options through a free, independent service.
- Aged Care Employee Day is held every year on 7 August to recognise the people who support older Australians.
- More than 450,000 people work across Australia’s aged care sector in roles ranging from nurses and personal care workers to lifestyle coordinators and support staff.
- Aged care workers provide essential support in both residential aged care and home care services, like Support at Home.
- Finding the right care provider means finding a team that understands your loved one’s needs, preferences and goals.
- Aged Care Decisions helps families compare available care options through a free, independent service.
Stephanie Burdett
Content Writer · Aged Care Decisions
-
31 July 2026 -
7 min read
Aged Care Employee Day is held on 7 August each year and provides an opportunity to recognise the people who make a difference in the lives of older Australians.
From nurses and personal care workers to lifestyle coordinators, hospitality teams and volunteers, thousands of people work across Australia’s aged care sector to support older Australians every day.
For many families, these are the people who provide reassurance, companionship and practical support during some of life’s biggest transitions. Behind every care decision is a team of people whose dedication helps older Australians live with dignity, connection and independence.
When is Aged Care Employee Day?
Aged Care Employee Day takes place on 7 August every year. In 2026, it falls on a Friday.
The day was established in 2018 by Australian aged care provider Whiddon to recognise the contribution of the people working across the sector. It has since grown into a nationally recognised event supported by organisations including Ageing Australia and other industry bodies.
The theme, “Thanks for Caring”, reflects the purpose of the day: acknowledging the dedication of the people who support older Australians.
Aged care workers often work behind the scenes. They provide care on weekends, public holidays and overnight shifts. They support families during challenging moments and help older Australians maintain independence, connection and quality of life.
Aged Care Employee Day is a chance to say thank you for the important role they play.
Who Works in Aged Care?
Aged care is supported by a diverse workforce. It includes clinical professionals, care workers, hospitality teams, administrative staff and volunteers.
While nurses and carers are often the most visible members of the workforce, many different roles contribute to a person’s overall care experience.
Some of the people you may meet include:
- Registered nurses and enrolled nurses who provide clinical care, manage medications, monitor health changes and support complex care needs.
- Personal care workers who assist with everyday activities such as showering, dressing, mobility and personal support.
- Allied health professionals including physiotherapists and occupational therapists who help older Australians maintain movement, independence and wellbeing.
- Lifestyle coordinators and care staff who organise activities, outings and social opportunities that support connection and emotional wellbeing.
- Kitchen, cleaning, laundry and support teams who help create a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment.
- Volunteers who provide valuable companionship and community connection.
Together, these roles create the care environment that supports older Australians every day.
Under Australia’s care minutes requirements, aged care homes are required to provide a minimum amount of care time to residents each day. This relies on the commitment and expertise of the people delivering that care.
Where Do Aged Care Workers Provide Support?
Aged care workers support older Australians in a range of settings, depending on their needs, preferences and circumstances.
For many people, support begins while they are still living at home. Others may need the additional care provided through residential aged care services. In both settings, the focus is on helping older Australians maintain their independence, wellbeing and quality of life.
Support At Home Services
The Australian Government’s Support at Home program helps older Australians access government-funded services while continuing to live independently at home.
Under Support at Home, care workers provide practical and personal support that can make everyday life easier. This may include help with personal care, household tasks, transport, social connection and other supports based on a person’s assessed needs.
For many older Australians and their families, these workers become a familiar and trusted part of their support network. They provide more than practical assistance. They help people stay connected to their communities and continue doing the things that matter to them.
Residential Aged Care Services
When living at home is no longer the right option, residential aged care provides 24-hour support in a dedicated care setting.
Teams in aged care homes provide a combination of personal care, nursing support, meals, accommodation and opportunities for social connection.
While the setting may be different, the goal remains the same: supporting older Australians to live with dignity, comfort and choice.
Why Finding the Right Aged Care Team Matters
Choosing aged care is about more than finding an available service. It is about finding a residential aged care provider or Support at Home provider whose team understands your loved one’s needs and can provide the right support.
Families often have many questions when comparing care options:
- What level of support is needed?
- Which providers have availability nearby?
- What services are included?
- Which team feels like the right fit?
Taking the time to understand your options and compare home care providers or aged care homes can make the decision less overwhelming and help your family feel more confident moving forward.
How Aged Care Decisions Helps Families Find Care
Finding the right aged care provider can feel like a big task, especially when families are already balancing appointments, paperwork and changing care needs.
Aged Care Decisions helps families compare available residential aged care and Support at Home providers through a free, independent service.
We do the searching and comparing for you, helping you understand which options may suit your loved one’s needs, location and budget.
Our service includes:
- Matching you with providers based on your care needs, preferences and circumstances.
- Showing options with current availability.
- Providing a personalised Options Report so you can compare providers.
- Supporting you from your first conversation through to choosing care.
- Giving independent guidance without pressure or obligation.
The people who provide aged care make a meaningful difference every day. Our role is to help families find the care team that is the right fit for their situation.
Our service is 100% FREE for families. Contact us today and see how we can help you find the right aged care provider for your needs.
How to Celebrate Aged Care Employee Day
There are many simple ways to recognise the people working in aged care.
You could:
- Say thank you to the staff supporting your family.
- Write a card or share a message of appreciation.
- Bring a small gift or organise morning tea for a care team.
- Share your thanks online using #ThanksForCaring and #ACED2026.
- Nominate an outstanding worker for recognition awards.
- Let a provider know when a staff member has made a positive difference.
A small gesture can mean a lot to someone who spends their days caring for others.
