Aged Care Award 2010 – Cleaning Services Employee / SCHADS Award
Position Overview
The Aged Care Cleaner is responsible for maintaining a clean, hygienic, safe, and welcoming environment across My Remarkable Care's service settings, which may include residential aged care facilities, day programme centres, and client homes. This role is carried out with sensitivity to the needs of older people and in compliance with infection prevention and control (IPC) requirements, the Aged Care Quality Standards, and all relevant workplace health and safety legislation.
The Aged Care Cleaner works as part of a broader care team and is expected to demonstrate respect, discretion, and professionalism at all times when in the presence of clients, residents, and their families.
Key Responsibilities
Cleaning & Hygiene
- Perform daily, weekly, and periodic cleaning of all designated areas including bedrooms, bathrooms, toilets, communal spaces, corridors, kitchens, and dining areas.
- Clean and sanitise high-touch surfaces such as door handles, handrails, light switches, and equipment in accordance with IPC protocols.
- Mop, vacuum, sweep, and scrub floors using appropriate cleaning products and equipment.
- Clean and disinfect bathrooms and wet areas to a high standard, with particular attention to minimising infection risk.
- Remove and dispose of waste, including clinical and general waste, in accordance with organisational policy and relevant legislation.
- Change and launder linen and towels as directed, ensuring correct handling of soiled items.
Infection Prevention & Control
- Follow all infection prevention and control (IPC) procedures including correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and aprons.
- Adhere to hand hygiene protocols before, during, and after cleaning tasks.
- Implement outbreak cleaning procedures as directed during periods of illness (e.g., influenza, gastroenteritis, COVID-19).
- Ensure correct dilution, storage, and use of cleaning chemicals in accordance with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and organisational guidelines.
- Report any infection control concerns or hazards to the supervisor or care coordinator promptly.
Equipment & Supply Management
- Operate and maintain cleaning equipment including vacuum cleaners, mops, buckets, and floor scrubbers safely and correctly.
- Check equipment before use and report faults or damage immediately.
- Monitor and report low levels of cleaning supplies, chemicals, and consumables to the supervisor.
- Ensure cleaning trolleys and storage areas are kept organised, clean, and secure at all times.
Workplace Health & Safety
- Comply with all WHS policies and procedures, including safe manual handling techniques.
- Use wet floor signs and other safety indicators when cleaning to prevent slips and falls.
- Report workplace hazards, near misses, incidents, and injuries promptly using organisational reporting systems.
- Participate in WHS training, toolbox talks, and safety briefings as required.
Professionalism & Resident / Client Interaction
- Interact with residents, clients, and their families in a respectful, friendly, and culturally sensitive manner.
- Maintain strict confidentiality of client and resident information at all times.
- Knock and seek permission before entering client rooms or private spaces.
- Be mindful of residents' routines, preferences, and comfort when scheduling cleaning tasks.
- Report any concerns regarding a client's or resident's wellbeing to the care coordinator without delay.
Documentation & Communication
- Complete cleaning checklists, schedules, and any required records accurately and in a timely manner.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, coordinators, and care staff regarding cleaning schedules and any issues identified.
- Attend team meetings and training sessions as required.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
- Previous experience in a cleaning role, preferably in an aged care, healthcare, or hospitality environment.
- Sound understanding of infection prevention and control principles and cleaning standards.
- Knowledge of safe chemical handling and the use of Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- NDIS Worker Screening Check (or willingness to obtain prior to commencement).
- Working With Vulnerable People clearance (as applicable by state/territory).
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and complete tasks independently.
- Physical fitness to perform the requirements of the role including standing, bending, and manual handling.
Desirable
- Certificate II or III in Cleaning Operations or a related qualification.
- Experience working within a residential aged care facility or home care setting.
- Familiarity with the Aged Care Quality Standards and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Practice Standards.
- First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain).
- Ability to read and write in English to complete cleaning records and documentation.
Key Competencies
- Attention to Detail — Thorough and consistent approach to cleaning tasks and hygiene standards.
- Reliability & Punctuality — Dependable attendance and adherence to rostered shifts.
- Compassion & Sensitivity — Respectful and kind when working around older people.
- Safety Awareness — Proactive identification of hazards and compliance with WHS requirements.
- Teamwork — Cooperative and communicative with care and support staff.
- Initiative — Ability to identify and address cleaning needs without constant direction.
- Cultural Sensitivity — Respectful of the diverse backgrounds and preferences of clients and residents.
- Professionalism — Maintains appropriate boundaries and confidentiality at all times.
Working Conditions
The Aged Care Cleaner may be required to:
- Work across a 7-day roster, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
- Work in residential facilities, day centres, and/or private client homes across various locations.
- Perform physically demanding tasks including mopping, scrubbing, lifting, and operating cleaning equipment.
- Work in environments where clients may have complex health conditions, cognitive impairment, or high care needs.
- Wear and correctly use PPE for the full duration of relevant cleaning tasks.
Pay: $26.00 – $36.00 per hour
Expected hours: 15.0 – 38.0 per week
Work Location: In person
