Research conducted by the industry super fund HESTA reveals a sector facing significant challenges to attract and retain workers.

The research found more than 23 per cent of aged care workers surveyed intend to leave the sector in one to five years.

This is equivalent to 84,000 employees within the aged care workforce which currently stands at approximately 366,000.

The report found only 4,000 workers are expected to enter the sector from other areas of health and community services (HACS), meaning aged care faces a potential net outflow of 80,000 employees in the next five years.

The Productivity Commission forecasts that Australia may need almost one million aged care workers by 2050, if it’s to meet the forecast demand from ageing baby boomers.

“Our research identifies a worrying potential outflow of workers from aged care in the next five years, right as we need to be attracting significantly more people to work in the sector,” said HESTA CEO, Debby Blakey.

On a positive note the study revealed the strong personal and professional commitment of those working in aged care. Among aged care employees, 77 per cent of those surveyed intend working in the sector for the long-term.

“Aged care employees spoke of how rewarding they found caring for Australia’s elderly — of special moments shared, of wanting to make a difference, or simply the power of being there to listen,” said Debby Blakey.

“It’s this human connection that lies at the heart of retaining valuable, experienced employees and attracting the new entrants to the industry.”