Question 1

What is the difference between an aged care shift coordinator and a care team leader?

Accepted Answer

Both are supervisory roles, though shift coordinators typically focus on operational oversight during specific shifts, while team leaders may have broader ongoing team management responsibilities. Both are classified at supervisory levels under the Aged Care Award.

Question 2

What award covers aged care shift coordinators in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Aged care shift coordinator positions are covered by the Aged Care Award 2010 (MA000018) at supervisory classification levels. The specific level depends on the scope of responsibilities and qualifications. Always verify which award applies to your specific facility.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for an aged care shift coordinator?

Accepted Answer

Under the Aged Care Award, shift coordinators are typically classified at supervisory levels (Level 3 or 4), reflecting their coordination and oversight responsibilities. The specific level depends on facility size, span of control and duties. See our Aged Care Award pay rates guide for current supervisory rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in an aged care shift coordinator job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Supervisory level award rates plus penalties.' Check the current Aged Care Award supervisory rates for guidance.

Question 5

What qualifications do aged care shift coordinators need?

Accepted Answer

Most facilities require at least a Certificate IV in Ageing Support or Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. Some facilities require a Diploma of Nursing or equivalent. Shift coordinators must have strong clinical knowledge and proven supervisory experience in aged care. Track staff qualifications using HR software.

Question 6

Do aged care shift coordinators need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, shift coordinators need all standard aged care certificates including First Aid, CPR, manual handling and medication administration. A National Police Check is mandatory. Additional leadership or management training is highly beneficial. Some facilities require registered nurse qualifications.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in an aged care shift coordinator?

Accepted Answer

Look for at least 2-3 years of experience in aged care at senior care worker or clinical level, with demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage shifts and make clinical decisions. Experience with staff supervision, incident management and care planning is essential.

Question 8

Can shift coordinators be promoted from within?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many facilities successfully promote experienced aged care workers to shift coordinator roles. Internal promotion provides continuity and demonstrates career pathways. Ensure promoted staff receive appropriate training in supervision, delegation and shift management, and are reclassified to the appropriate supervisory level.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent aged care shift coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Permanent shift coordinators are recommended for consistency in leadership and resident care. However, some facilities use casual coordinators to cover leave or additional shifts. Most facilities maintain a permanent shift coordinator for each shift rotation. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to aged care shift coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Under the Aged Care Award at supervisory levels, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, afternoon shifts, night shifts and overtime. Coordinators working 24/7 rosters attract significant penalties. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate supervisory rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for shift coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Under the Aged Care Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 2 hours per shift, though coordinator shifts are usually full shifts (8-10 hours) to provide consistent oversight. Part-time employees also have minimum shift requirements. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in an aged care shift coordinator employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and supervisory classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate or salary at supervisory level, applicable award, reporting structure (usually to Care Manager or Clinical Manager), main duties including staff supervision, shift patterns, on-call requirements, and clinical delegation authority. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to shift coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Under the Aged Care Award, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. Changes within this period require employee agreement unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps ensure compliance and gives coordinators visibility of their shifts, particularly important for coordinating care coverage.

Question 14

Can I require shift coordinators to work night shifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most aged care facilities require shift coordinators across all shifts including nights. Night coordinators provide supervisory oversight and clinical support when management is off-site. Be clear about night shift requirements during recruitment. Under the award, night penalty rates apply.

Question 15

What breaks are aged care shift coordinators entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Aged Care Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Coordinators must be able to respond to emergencies during breaks. Use break planning tools to ensure coverage when coordinators take breaks.

Question 16

Do shift coordinators need dedicated handover time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, shift coordinators require adequate handover time — typically 30-45 minutes — to discuss resident conditions, staffing issues, incidents and priorities. This is essential for safe care continuity. Build handover time into rosters. Use rostering software to schedule overlapping coordinator shifts for thorough handovers.

Aged care shift coordinator job description