Proposed new mandatory training manual for aged care volunteers

Between 21 July and 12 September, we asked for feedback on the proposed mandatory training manual for volunteers in aged care.

The consultation ensured that the training framework is inclusive, practical and aligned with the Aged Care Act 2024 and strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards.

We received strong engagement across the sector:

• 1,486 survey responses, including:
  • volunteers (38%)
  • volunteer managers (21%)
  • providers (17%)
• workshops with peak bodies such as Volunteering Australia and Meals on Wheels
• more than 40 written submissions from individuals and organisations, including Dementia Australia, Council on the Ageing (COTA), Ageing Australia, multicultural and disability advocacy groups, and aged care providers.

Feedback showed broad support for nationally consistent, role-specific training that improves safety, dignity and care quality.

Key themes included:

• flexible training options (print, online, face to face)
• empowering language (e.g. ‘minimum requirements’ instead of ‘mandatory’)
• respect for volunteer time and experience
• cultural and disability inclusion, including multilingual and ‘Easy Read’ resources.

Concerns were raised about digital access, over-regulation and the impact on volunteer recruitment and retention. Volunteer managers supported the initiative but asked for practical tools, clear guidance and implementation support.

We analysed all feedback including survey responses, submissions and workshop insights. This informed a thematic framework to refine the training manual and modules.

Key areas of focus included:

• accessibility and inclusion
• volunteer identity and motivation
• training portability and recognition
• support for volunteer managers
• clarity around applicability and registration categories.

Stakeholder suggestions are now being incorporated into the final version of the training manual.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the consultation. Your feedback is helping us build a training framework that values volunteers, supports volunteer managers and providers, and strengthens the safety and dignity of older people.

Read the consultation summary report.

Contact AgedCareVolunteer@health.gov.au for more information.