A new research and training initiative led by the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) aims to make aged-care workplaces safer, healthier and more supportive for staff across regional and rural Queensland.
The CARE-R Project – Cultivating Aged-care Resilience and Engagement in the Regions – will tackle one of the sector’s fastest-growing challenges: psychosocial injury caused by stress, burnout and exposure to trauma.
Funded through the Applied Research Grants Program via TAFE Queensland’s TAFE Centre of Excellence Health Care and Support, the project will focus on practical, evidence-based solutions to improve wellbeing and resilience in aged-care settings.
UniSQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen Nelson said the project reflected the university’s commitment to research with real-world impact.
“The CARE-R Project is about helping the people who care for others,” Professor Nelson said.
“As the sector evolves, it’s critical that we safeguard the work that only humans can do – the connection, compassion and judgement that sit at the heart of quality care.
“This project brings together UniSQ’s research expertise with the on-the-ground experience of industry partners to create practical solutions that support mental health and resilience in aged-care workplaces.”
Professor Nelson said the initiative also aligned with UniSQ’s leadership of the Southern Queensland Education Alliance, in partnership with TAFE Queensland.
“Through this work, we’re ensuring the care workforce feels supported, valued and equipped to deliver the highest quality care,” she said.
The CARE-R Project will work directly with aged-care workers and managers to identify key sources of workplace stress and co-design tools to prevent harm and strengthen resilience.
Led by UniSQ’s Professor Marion Gray, the research team will develop two major resources: a Leadership Workshop to train supervisors and managers in recognising and managing psychosocial risks, and an open-access digital platform offering online wellbeing modules and practical support tools for aged-care workers.
Professor Gray said pressures on the aged-care workforce were intensifying, particularly outside major cities.
“Aged-care workers face increasing stress and emotional demands, often with limited access to training or support, especially in regional areas,” she said.
“Through CARE-R, we’ll be working alongside workers and managers to create tools that make workplaces safer, more supportive and more resilient.”
The project will be delivered in partnership with Southern Cross Care and Ozcare, covering more than 60 sites and supporting around 6000 staff across Queensland.
Future plans include adapting the CARE-R platform for national rollout and developing a tailored version for students preparing to enter aged-care placements.
TAFE Centre of Excellence Health Care and Support Executive Director Renee Hindmarsh said the initiative would deliver long-term benefits for Queensland communities.
“We’re proud to support UniSQ through an Applied Research Grant because this project delivers evidence-based, meaningful training solutions for the aged-care workforce,” Ms Hindmarsh said.
“At some stage, aged care touches all of our lives, and supporting the wellbeing and skills of this critical workforce is essential to ensuring quality care and safe, rewarding careers.”
The TAFE Centre of Excellence Health Care and Support, led by TAFE Queensland, is a joint initiative of the Australian and Queensland governments, focused on innovating education and training to address critical skills shortages.
