Mercy Community has joined the fight against a nationwide shortage of nurses to ensure Australia’s aged care sector has enough staff to cope with a rapidly ageing population.
The organisation has partnered with hospitals, universities, and training organisations to provide student placements and employment opportunities in its aged care facilities across Queensland and New South Wales.
Mercy Community Talent Acquisition Partner, Nicola McNutt, said Mercy Community had already placed students from Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing and Certificate III courses as well as the Australian Catholic University’s Bachelor of Nursing degree, and from various Registered Training Organisations studying Certificate III courses.
With more students coming through from the Mater at the end of November, Ms McNutt predicts a busy period ahead.
“We are extremely enthusiastic and proud of our partnership with these training organisations and the opportunity to teach the next generation of nurses and carers,” she said.
“As well as helping the sector to supply a constant stream of qualified aged care team members, Mercy Community also benefits from participating in training and being able to offer employment to some students as personal care assistants (PCAs) while they are studying.
“It’s fantastic to be able to help address the Australia-wide shortage of qualified nursing and medical workers in the health and aged care sector, while also investing in the long-term future of our organisation to continue our mission of care, support and service.”
Health Workforce Australia estimates there will be a shortage of more than 100,000 nurses by 2025 and more than 123,000 by 2030.
Mercy Community provides a wide range of services and support to people in the community. This includes supporting families and young people, people living with disability, and the elderly, through a range of programs and services, including residential aged care and in home care.
The network is continually growing with residential aged care facilities throughout Queensland and Sydney.
