Community services cover a wide range of employers and jobs that involve working with people who require support including youth, aboriginal and torres strait islander people, people with disability and the elderly. These jobs are needed as often individuals requiring support don't have family or a social network that have the skills or resources to support them.
As the sector is so broad, job seekers usually have an idea of who they are looking to help or what type of organisation they want to work for, before choosing an area to specialise in.
Jobs in the community services sector are very rewarding and give you a sense of purpose and achievement. Many skills are also transferable to other roles, giving you flexibility to move into different areas if you choose.
Some roles are relatively low skilled, however there are opportunities to specialise and become an expert in specific areas of interest.
While jobs in community services are growing at a steady pace, many roles require candidates to be certified. To have the widest range of opportunities and the best chance at success, completing a certificate II, III or IV will put you in the best position.
According to the Australian Industry and Skills Committee, the number of Australians employed in the Community Services sector has doubled in the last 20 years and this pace of growth is predicted to continue until at least 2024.
As one of the largest sectors of employment in Australia, there are many opportunities for candidates with certificates and diplomas to work with youth, in-home care, aged care or with people with disability.
For more information refer to the forecasts provided by the Australian Industry and Skills Committee
