Infection Control in Community Healthcare Settings

This non-accredited course is designed for individuals working in health and community services, including Disability Support Workers, Aged Care Workers, Community Care Workers, Personal Care Workers and Respite Care Workers who wish to develop practical knowledge and skills in infection prevention and control within their role.

The course focuses on applying infection control principles in everyday care environments, with an emphasis on reducing risk and supporting safe, person-centred practice. Content has been guided by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Practice Standards and supports workers to deliver care within their scope of practice.

Participants will develop an understanding of how infections spread, including the chain of infection and common modes of transmission, and how to reduce risk through the consistent application of standard precautions. The course also explores maintaining a clean environment during care tasks, recognising signs of infection, and responding appropriately through reporting and escalation in line with workplace procedures.

A practical component is included, where participants engage in a hands-on hand hygiene activity using simulated contamination to demonstrate how easily infection can spread and the importance of correct technique.

This course has a practical, scenario-based focus and is tailored to the day-to-day responsibilities of support workers, rather than clinical or hospital-based roles. It is not a replacement for nationally recognised training in infection prevention and control.