We are currently recruiting for a Casual Day Therapy Assistant to work at our Day Therapy Center in The Homestead, Warrnambool.

Role Description

The Day Therapy Assistant supports the delivery of therapeutic programs aimed at enhancing the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults living in the community. Working under supervision the Day Therapy Assistant helps facilitate individual and group sessions, prepares and maintains therapy spaces and equipment, and supports clients in achieving their rehabilitation and wellness goals.

This role requires a compassionate, client-centered approach, strong communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. The Day Therapy Assistant contributes to creating a welcoming, safe, and stimulating environment for clients attending day therapy services.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• Certificate III in individual Support (or related discipline)
• Experience in the provision of aged care and/or home care or related discipline
• Sound knowledge of Home Care and/or Aged Care industry including exposure to the Aged Care Quality Code of Conduct, Aged Care Standards & accreditation process
• Strong communication skills, demonstrated ability to build rapport with internal and external stakeholders
• Client-centric approach and willingness to advocate on behalf of clients
• Demonstrated understanding of risk management protocols, covering hazard and incident identification and reporting

• Sound computer and information management skills
• Ability to problem-solve and resolve conflict
• Current National Police Certificate (or ability to acquire)
• Current First Aid certificate

Desirable:

• Certificate 4 in Individual Support (or related discipline)
• Current driver’s license

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare materials, equipment, and the physical environment prior to therapy sessions.
• Set up therapy spaces to ensure they are safe, comfortable, and suited to the planned activity.
• Assist in delivering a wide range of therapeutic interventions, including physical exercise, cognitive stimulation, mobility training, and recreational activities, tailored to individual client needs and abilities.
• Help clients to participate meaningfully in sessions by offering physical or verbal support as required.
• Guide and motivate clients through exercises or activities, ensuring correct technique and providing encouragement.
• Adapt support based on client needs, promoting independence wherever possible.
• Monitor adherence to plans and provide feedback to staff to support ongoing care planning.
• Respond calmly and appropriately in situations where clients require additional support or intervention.
• Communicate observations clearly and promptly to supervising staff and document as required.
• Escalate concerns regarding client safety, wellbeing, or behaviour in line with organisational procedures.
• Record relevant observations and client participation details in designated care systems or documentation tools.
• Assist in collecting client feedback or completing assessment tools under supervision.
• Ensure documentation is completed in a timely, respectful, and confidential manner, in accordance with policies and privacy legislation.
• Regularly clean and sanitise equipment and therapy spaces to meet infection prevention standards.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful atmosphere where clients feel encouraged to participate.
• Use effective communication skills to build rapport with clients, encouraging conversation and group cohesion.
• Adapt approach to suit clients with varying levels of cognitive or physical ability, including those with dementia.
• Support clients in building confidence and maintaining their independence through engaging and meaningful interactions.
• Assist clients with safe movement to and from therapy areas, using appropriate mobility aids and manual handling techniques.
• Provide support during client transport, including getting in and out of vehicles or accompanying group transport if required.
• Encourage clients to be as mobile and independent as possible while ensuring safety and comfort.

Mission, Vision and Values

It is a condition of employment that each employee will, at all times, uphold our organisation's mission, vision and values:

• Mission: To care for the elderly in our communities in an environment of respect, value and belonging.
• Vision: A world where the elderly feel respected, valued and enjoy a quality of life.
• Values: Respect: Treat all people with fairness and dignity. Care: Look after and protect the elderly, and each other. Teamwork: Encourage, cooperate and build trust. Courage: Do the right thing, even when it’s difficult. Integrity: Be open, honest and trustworthy. Innovation: Think differently to solve problems. Excellence: Drive quality to continuously improve.