Do you find it personally rewarding to care for someone? Do you spend time helping those in need, whether it’s running errands, shopping for groceries or helping people keep their homes clean?

If this is you, you are part of the 71% of Australians who have caring qualities and who could potentially earn income as an independent support worker through this work.

A new report — The Care Factor Report by Mable — found 2 in 3 Australians (65%) have caring qualities. However, they may not have the opportunity to leverage these for financial stability, career satisfaction and happiness.

With more than half of Aussies saying caring for others makes them feel happy (56%), fulfilled (49%) and rewarded (43%), it’s no surprise that almost half give back (49%), and two in five are already completing volunteer work (37%). 

However, 55% say they would like to volunteer but cite time, not knowing where to begin and needing to prioritise money as barriers. A career in care brings the fulfilment of volunteer work without the financial or time sacrifice.

According to the National Care and Support Workforce Strategy released in March 2022, around 720,000 care and support workers are expected to be needed by 2049-50, up from 460,000 in 2021.

Being an independent support worker can also mean having more pay and flexibility, which is what 44% of Australians want. By joining Mable, support workers have access to simple tools and resources to support and safeguard their small business, establish rewarding and transparent connections with clients and create opportunities for building their long-term earning potential.