Is infection control training required for aged care workers?

The short answer

Aged care providers must manage infection risks under the Aged Care Quality Standards, so in practice almost every provider trains staff in infection prevention and control — at induction and through regular refreshers. What exactly they require is set by each provider.

What providers usually ask for

• Infection control and hand hygiene training during induction.
• An annual refresher as part of mandatory training.
• Competency in putting on and taking off PPE, often checked on the floor.
• Extra training during or after an outbreak.

Accredited or awareness training?

Some roles or qualifications include a nationally recognised infection control unit. Many providers also accept awareness training for induction and refreshers. If a job ad names a specific unit, ask the employer what they'll accept.

Getting ready before you apply

Completing a short course before you apply shows initiative and means you arrive knowing the basics — the 5 moments for hand hygiene, PPE order, spills and when to report symptoms. Our Aged Care course covers these with aged care examples.