Congratulations to 23 Papua New Guineans who have completed a three-week aged care training program delivered by the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), with 20 participants securing job offers in Australia.
The participants took up aged care employment opportunities with the Australian employer, Labour Solutions Australia.
The training, organised by the Papua New Guinea Labour Mobility Unit (LMU), was held at Lemankot in New Ireland Province.
APTC partners with LMU to train PNG workers to meet Australian employers’ workforce demands under the PALM Scheme, where there are not enough Australian workers to fill this demand.
Participants from Manus, East New Britain, and New Ireland honed their skills through a curriculum aligned with key components of the Australian Certificate III Individual Support (Ageing) qualification.
The training covered three units: (i) CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in Health/Community Services, (ii) CHCDIV001 Work with Diverse People, and (iii) CHCLEG001 Work Legally and Ethically.
The course gave participants important skills and knowledge in caring for others, so they are informed and well prepared to work in aged care centers in their communities and in Australia.
Team Leader for the East New Britain participants, Colleen Olpitarea, expressed gratitude on behalf of the group, emphasising how the training has enhanced their skills and knowledge in communication, teamwork, and understanding individuals within their profession.
“The training has opened up our minds,” she said.
“It has helped us attain important skills and knowledge in our profession, especially working with others and even understanding individuals. The program covered essential areas like communication, working effectively with diverse people, and upholding legal and ethical practices in caregiving. We are grateful for the opportunity as it has enabled us to be work-ready for future employment opportunities,” Ms Olpitarea added.
Colin John, a nurse by profession, is thankful to APTC for the opportunity to upskill.
“This program broadened my understanding of aged care and individual support,” he shared. “I feel confident taking on this new challenge and contributing to a quality experience in the aged care sector in my community.”
Since its establishment in 2007, APTC has trained more than 6400 Papua New Guineans, enabling them to advance in their TVET careers. Among them are 36 women and five men who have been trained in aged care, sharing their skills and knowledge within PNG and internationally.
