CQU and Fee-Free TAFE helps Rebekah care for Barcaldine’s seniors in need

by Greg Chapman

Rebekah Gleeson-Cherry is fulfilling a dream of giving back to Barcaldine’s elderly generation after completing a Certificate III in Individual Support through Fee-Free TAFE at CQUniversity.

The 23-year-old completed the course and is now employed by the Barcaldine Commonwealth Home Support Program (Home and Community Care) through Barcaldine Hospital. 

“I have always wanted to work in the home and community and aged care industry, as I have a love of helping people,” she said.

Rebekah was able to complete the course through the joint Australian and Queensland Government’s Fee-Free TAFE program.

“The online study was greatly appreciated as I live 600km from Rockhampton, so it gave me the chance to still work and study in the town I live in, without having to move to study to gain work in a great industry. 

“It was a great course to get into the industry and learn about all the ins and outs of the industry and how to care for and assist the elderly in their own homes or at a facility,” she said.

“I love visiting and assisting our clients in the community. It is great to visit them daily and enjoy their conversations while assisting.”

Rebekah encouraged anyone considering a career in aged care or community support to consider study at CQU. 

“If you have a strong interest in helping the elderly community and assisting them in their daily task to still independently live in their own home, or assist them in an aged care facility, I would suggest studying a Certificate III in Individual Support,” she said.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one third of Barcaldine's population is aged over 55, meaning Rebekah's skills are valuable to the region.

The Certificate III in Individual Support is one of many courses available through the Fee-Free TAFE program in 2024.

Last year, the qualification had the highest number of completions under Fee-Free TAFE. 

The Fee-Free TAFE program will deliver a total of 43,400 Fee-Free TAFE places for Queenslanders over the next three years.

Learn more about Fee-Free TAFE