Ms Maxwell recently began working with GOTAFE and will be delivering the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) course in Benalla in 2024.
Commencing her career in the aged care sector 21 years ago, Ms Maxwell is passionate about passing on her skills and knowledge.
“Personal carers are the backbone of the industry — we need more trained people,” Ms Maxwell said.
“Life experience is important and when you’re in a training capacity, to be able to share those experiences with others is invaluable.
“It is important to be there and do the best you can for people, and remember they are people who have had lives, too.”
Ms Maxwell first commenced her career in the care sector at Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW), which uncovered her love of aged care.
“Aged care is an area of nursing that has been overlooked,” she said.
“It is all about supporting people who are nearing the end of their life.
“It is more than just providing clinical care — we provide emotional care, too.”
Having grown up and living in Benalla for most of her life, Ms Maxwell is enjoying giving back to the community.
With an ageing population and a large care industry, demand for qualified workers in Benalla and surrounding regions is rising.
Statistics from the 2021 Census show the median age in Benalla is 51 years old, compared to Victoria and Australia, which both have median ages of 38.
“In Benalla, there are three facilities, so the demand is definitely there,” she said.
“The demand will only increase with the ageing population.”
GOTAFE is delivering the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) course in Benalla in 2024, with applications for the 2024 semester 1 intake now open.
Visit www.gotafe.vic.edu.au for more information or contact 1300 GOTAFE (468 233) 10am-5pm, Monday-Friday.
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