Choosing a career path can be a confusing time as you weigh up the potential pros and cons of different professions. While some people have known their whole lives what they want to be, others aren’t so sure, and that’s okay. If you’re looking for more information on a career in health, then this might be useful to you. It’s also important to remember that working in healthcare isn’t just about nurses and doctors. There’s plenty of varied and exciting career opportunities on offer now and into the future.
The time to shine
The good news is there’s never been a better time to join health. It’s the largest employer in the Darling Downs with a team of more than 6,000 people. It’s made up not only of clinicians – doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health; but also, administration staff, maintenance and engineering, cleaners, gardeners, cooks and so much more!
Looking back over the past couple of years, there’s no denying the huge impact all health workers had on their communities.
Workforces across Queensland, Australia and even the world quickly grew. That growth isn’t slowing down anytime soon and is expected to continue. In 2021 there were over 1.8 million people in Australia employed in healthcare, which is predicted to increase to more than 2 million by 2025.
New places and faces
What’s better than working in a job you love? Getting to travel while you do it.
A career in health also means the opportunity to travel across regional Queensland, make new friends and create memories to last a lifetime. Darling Downs Health is divided into three rural clusters: Southern, Western and South Burnett. Each of these areas offers a friendly and close-knit community.
Not only will you get to enjoy the lifestyle, but you’ll also have endless learning opportunities to grow your professional toolkit.
Workplace benefits
The health industry has healthy benefits for staff to enjoy. There are attractive pay and conditions, supportive and inclusive workplaces, and exciting opportunities to develop your skills and career.
On top of these incentives, the health industry also supports work-life balance and acknowledges the importance of your wellbeing. Staff may be able to access other benefits including flexible work arrangements, study assistance and training funds, employee assistance program, purchased leave and Fitness Passport.
Oh, and we also contribute up to 12.75% of your salary into superannuation.
State-of-the-art services
More funding + new facilities = great opportunities.
As the industry grows, so too do our services. Darling Downs Health recently opened a new hospital in Kingaroy, providing the community with a world-class facility for generations to come. After a record budget announcement for the region, new hospitals will also be built in Toowoomba and Tara.
These announcements are giving staff the opportunity to work in state-of-the-art hospitals and health precincts.
Pathways
One of the biggest benefits to the health industry is the pathways available. You might start working in one field and go on to explore many more over the span of your career.
When choosing a job remember you don’t have to stick with it, it’s just your pathway in. There is always a development opportunity available to move in another direction if you wish.
Don’t be afraid that the choice you make is the one that will be for the rest of your life. Healthcare is such a broad industry with so much to discover.
Reap the rewards
Talk to anyone in healthcare and they’ll tell you that while it can be challenging at times, it’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.
Knowing you’re caring for your community when they need you most is an incredible privilege. Everyone in our health service plays an important part and we’re dedicated to making a difference.
To make a difference in your community, view our current job vacancies: www.darlingdowns.health.qld.gov.au/careers