Working in aged care is more than a career, it’s a calling. Every person who joins Harbourside Port Stephens brings a unique story about how they discovered their passion for helping others. Some arrive by chance, some by choice, but all share the same goal: to make a genuine difference in the lives of older Australians.
At Harbourside, we support every step of that journey, from traineeships to leadership roles, with training, mentorship, and a workplace culture built on care and respect.
Starting Points: How People Enter Aged Care
“I Just Fell Into It”
For many, a career in aged care starts unexpectedly.
Take Jenny, one of our Personal Care Assistants (PCAs).
“I came to the bay looking for a career path all those years ago, and I sort of fell into aged care,” Jenny says.
Today, after nearly three decades in the industry, Jenny is proud to call Harbourside the most supportive workplace she’s ever known. She values the variety in her role, from complex care to community outings, and says that’s what keeps every day rewarding.
Learning on the Job Through Traineeships
For others, aged care begins with structured support and training.
Our Aged Care Traineeship Program gives newcomers the opportunity to earn while they learn — gaining real-world experience and completing a Certificate III in Individual Support at the same time.
This pathway is ideal for anyone ready to start a meaningful career, even without prior experience. What matters most is compassion, reliability, and the desire to make a difference.
Nurses Discovering a New Kind of Care
Registered Nurses often find themselves drawn to aged care for its holistic and relationship-centred approach.
Jarrod, one of our RNs, began his career thinking he’d work in emergency departments, but an agency placement in aged care changed everything.
“The chance to build long-term relationships with residents and families has been life-changing,” he says. “It’s not just clinical work, it’s community.”
Today, Jarrod is part of a supportive team that values flexibility, learning and work-life balance by the sea.
Read why RNs are choosing Harbourside →
Training and Support Along the Way
At Harbourside, no one walks their career journey alone. We provide comprehensive support and ongoing training at every level.
- On-the-job learning with experienced mentors who guide new staff through daily care and clinical routines.
- Formal qualifications including Certificate III and IV programs, nursing degrees, and ongoing professional development.
- Mentorship and study leave to help staff balance learning with work commitments.
- In-service training and CPD across areas like dementia care, palliative care, and behaviour support.
- Recognition and rewards including above-award pay, study leave, and performance incentives.
Our goal is to help every team member grow — whether that means deepening clinical expertise, moving into leadership, or simply becoming the best version of themselves in their current role.
Career Progression: From Entry to Leadership
At Harbourside, there are many ways to build a rewarding career – from administration and hospitality to maintenance and hands-on care roles supporting our residents and clients.
This pathway focuses on our care team – the people who provide direct support and clinical care to our residents and clients. It shows how you can grow from an entry-level role to leadership, with training and support every step of the way.
- Traineeships
Start your journey with a traineeship where you’ll learn the fundamentals of care, communication and teamwork — all while gaining hands-on experience and working toward a nationally recognised qualification in aged care - Personal Care Assistant
As a qualified Personal Care Assistant, you’ll provide day-to-day support that makes a real difference in the lives of residents and clients – helping with personal care, mobility and companionship. You’ll continue to build your skills through mentoring, ongoing training, and learning from experienced colleagues. - Area Champions
At Harbourside, we nurture staff to become Champions in key areas such as dementia care, wound management, infection control, or palliative care. These staff members lead by example, share their expertise with others, and help strengthen the quality of care across our services. - Enrolled or Registered Nurse
Step into a clinical role where you’ll take responsibility for care planning, medication management, and supporting the wellbeing of residents and clients. Nurses also provide leadership and guidance to care teams. - Care Manager or Nurse Manager
Oversee larger teams, coordinate clinical operations, and ensure that every aspect of care meets the highest standards. These roles combine leadership, mentoring, and hands-on clinical expertise. - Leadership, Quality & Management
For those ready to take the next step, opportunities extend into operational leadership, quality and compliance, and education roles — shaping the systems and culture that support exceptional care.
Every journey at Harbourside is unique, but all are built on the same foundation: compassion, teamwork, and continuous learning.
Every journey looks a little different, but all are built on the same foundation: compassion, teamwork, and continuous learning.
Why Harbourside is the Perfect Place to Grow
- Values-driven culture — Compassion, respect, accountability and excellence guide everything we do.
- Supportive leadership — We’re known for being approachable, encouraging and invested in our people.
- Career transparency — With defined pathways from traineeships to management, you can see your future clearly.
- Lifestyle advantage — Located in beautiful Port Stephens, our team enjoys balance, community, and connection to nature.
- Rewarding purpose — You’ll go home each day knowing you’ve made a difference.
Ready to Start Your Own Aged Care Career?
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or ready to take the next step, Harbourside Port Stephens provides the environment, support and community to help you thrive.
👉 Explore our current opportunities and join a team that truly cares.
Join Our Team →