TAFE Queensland grant backs aged care workforce research

A Queensland research project aimed at strengthening the future of the aged care workforce is being led from Moreton Bay, following the award of a competitive TAFE Queensland applied research grant.

Veri Health, a national healthcare media and business intelligence platform founded and operated by Moreton Bay locals Belinda Boyce and Ellie Bakker, has been selected as part of TAFE Queensland’s Centres of Excellence Applied Research Program. 

The program supports projects designed to strengthen training and workforce capability in priority sectors, including aged care.

Read more about Veri Health in our previous article.

The research focuses on understanding what it is really like to work and study in aged care today including what people find meaningful, what they find challenging, and what supports long-term career sustainability.

Led by lived experience and sector insight

The research is led by Veri Health co-founders Ellie Bakker and Belinda Boyce, with a focus on translating lived experience into evidence-informed storytelling and practical learning resources.

Ms Bakker said the project responds to increasing pressure on the aged care sector as demand continues to grow.

“Aged care work is deeply meaningful, but it’s also complex and emotionally demanding,” she said. 

“We want to understand the real experience of the work, not just what makes it hard, but what gives it purpose and what helps people stay and grow in the sector.”

Turning insight into practical learning

Insights from the research will be translated into practical digital learning resources, including short video-based storytelling and educator-ready materials that can be embedded into vocational training and workplace learning environments.

“These aren’t generic professional development modules,” Ms Bakker said.

“They are designed to reflect real experiences and real voices, and to support confidence, leadership capability and professional identity in aged care.”

The project is being delivered in partnership with James Cook University, which is providing ethics and research oversight, and is supported by industry and education partners across Queensland.

Cultural guidance is being provided by Indigenous advisor Sorita McGrane to ensure the research and storytelling are inclusive, respectful and culturally safe.

While Veri Health operates nationally, the project has a strong Queensland focus, with pilot activity planned in regional and community-based settings.

Findings are expected to inform future training approaches within TAFE Queensland and contribute to broader conversations about how the state attracts, supports and retains people working in aged care.

Expression of interest invited

Veri Health is inviting expressions of interest from across the aged care and disability sectors to learn more about the research.

Expressions of interest are welcome from:

• Aged care workers

• Students currently studying aged care or related qualifications

• Aged care and disability organisations interested in supporting or engaging with the research

Registering an expression of interest does not commit individuals or organisations to participate. All participation is voluntary and confidential, and full study information will be provided before any involvement.

To register an expression of interest or request further information, contact: [email protected]

Learn more about Veri Health here