The role of an Activities Officer in Australia is vital in designing and facilitating recreational and social programs that help older adults and people with disabilities maintain a positive mindset and enhance their quality of life. Let’s explore with NextGem what skills this job requires, expected salary levels, and the career opportunities it offers in the future.
1. What Is an Activities Officer in Australia?
An Activities Officer (also known as Activities Worker or Activities Assistant) is responsible for planning and delivering recreational, social, and wellness activities for elderly clients, people with disabilities, or community service groups across Australia.
The primary goal of this role is to promote social engagement, improve mental and physical wellbeing, and enhance the overall quality of life for clients.
This is a key position within aged care and disability services, ideal for those who enjoy interactive, dynamic, and people-focused work that makes a difference in others’ lives.
Typical duties of an Activities Officer include:
- Organising recreational & social programs: leading games, craft workshops, music and dance sessions, light exercise, or outings.
- Supporting participation: encouraging clients to join activities in a comfortable and inclusive way.
- Preparing and managing equipment: setting up spaces, materials, and ensuring safety during activities.
- Monitoring and reporting: recording participation levels and client feedback, and reporting to supervisors.
- Creating a positive environment: fostering engagement between clients, families, and care staff.
2. Qualifications and Skills Required
To become an Activities Officer in Australia, applicants generally need relevant qualifications and strong interpersonal skills.
Common qualifications include:
Certificate III in Individual Support – a great foundation for those starting in the care industry.
Certificate IV in Leisure and Health – provides specialised knowledge in activity design and program coordination; highly regarded by employers.
Additional certifications required for employment:
- First Aid & CPR
- Police Check
- Working With Children Check (if applicable)
Essential skills:
- Communication & active listening: building rapport and encouraging client participation.
- Creativity & flexibility: designing suitable and engaging activities.
- Organisation & time management: planning daily schedules effectively and safely.
- Empathy & patience: vital when working with elderly or disabled clients.
- Teamwork: collaborating with nurses, carers, and supervisors.
- Physical stamina & positivity: maintaining energy for hands-on and interactive tasks.
3. Career Opportunities and Progression Pathways
With Australia’s ageing population and growing demand for community and disability services, employment prospects for Activities Officers are steadily rising.
Work environments include:
- Residential aged care facilities
- Community centres
- Disability service organisations
- Day programs for older adults or people with disabilities
- Not-for-profit organisations
Career progression:
- Activities Officer → Senior Activities Officer: experienced staff who supervise small teams.
- Activities Officer → Lifestyle Coordinator: responsible for planning and managing activity programs for entire facilities.
- With advanced qualifications and experience, you may progress to roles such as: Diversional Therapist – designing therapeutic activity programs. Manager/Coordinator in aged care or disability services – overseeing broader operational functions.
4. Salary and Challenges in the Role
Salaries for Activities Officers in Australia vary depending on the state, experience, and workplace type (aged care, disability services, or community centres).
According to recent data:
- SEEK: Average annual salary is around AUD $50,000 – $51,000 (full-time).
- Glassdoor: Base salary averages AUD $48,000, ranging from AUD $45,000 to AUD $57,000 for experienced workers.
- Jora:
Queensland – approximately AUD $86,250/year
Western Australia – approximately AUD $76,971/year
Higher-level roles such as Senior Activities Officer or Lifestyle Coordinator can earn between AUD $70,000 – $85,000 per year.
Common challenges in the job:
- Requires patience and empathy, particularly when working with older or disabled clients.
- Safety responsibilities – ensuring all activities are risk-free and suitable.
- Creative pressure – consistently developing new and engaging ideas.
- Flexible schedules – may involve weekends or special events.
Conclusion
The Activities Officer role in Australia is more than just organising events—it’s about creating joy, fostering connection, and enhancing wellbeing. As demand in the aged care and disability sectors continues to grow, this is a promising and meaningful career choice for those who are energetic, compassionate, and passionate about helping others.
>> Interested in pursuing a career in Leisure and Health?
Contact NextGem today for detailed guidance on study pathways, qualifications, and job opportunities in Australia.
