Sponsorships empower careers and communities

March 25, 2025

Pictured above: Bethanie Namayan (in red Christmas hat) with staff from St Catherine’s at Grafton

Bethanie Namayan’s dream of working in Australia has come true, thanks to Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT)’s sponsorship program. The initiative has not only helped her achieve her career goals but also contributed to addressing the workforce shortage in the aged care sector.

Originally from the Philippines, Bethanie was granted a Skills in Demand subclass 482 visa and has now been working full-time at St. Catherine’s in Grafton for six months.

The 482 visa allows Australian employers to hire suitably skilled overseas workers, reflecting Southern Cross Care’s ongoing commitment to building a diverse and skilled workforce. So far, over 100 new staff members have been welcomed through various visa programs.

Bethanie said SCC’s sponsorship program not only helps address staff shortages but also helps people from overseas build better futures, allowing her full-time employment as well as financial independence.

“The sponsorship program is a great platform to establish ourselves here in Australia, and it’s made a huge difference in my life,” she beamed.

"Once I was approved for the 482 visa, I was able to leave my student visa behind and move to St Catherine’s at Grafton to continue my career as a Registered Nurse (RN).

“My five-year-old son Lucio Elijah, who is currently living with my mum in the Philippines, also comes under my visa status which means he can come over anytime.

“I can save more money, and my son will be able to join me soon.

“It’s made me feel more independent in every aspect of my life.”

The 482 visa is just one of a number of sponsorship opportunities designed to address workforce gaps in the aged care industry. So far, a total of 56 have been approved, and the organisation is excited to continue growing its team.

Additionally, SCC sponsors international qualified nurses (IQNs) to work as Care Support Employees (CSE) while they complete their AHPRA registration. To date, 43 IQNs have been sponsored, providing them with a pathway to becoming fully qualified Registered Nurses in Australia.

The organisation also continues to sponsor employees who have completed their studies and obtained AHPRA registration, offering them the chance to work as RNs across its facilities. This initiative has already supported 29 nurses, allowing them to stay in Australia and continue providing high-quality care.

Alethea Lee, Chief People, Property and Legal Officer, shared, “Sponsoring international workers has been a game-changer for SCC and a life-changer for our new staff. It’s been a huge benefit for the organisation as well as providing dedicated professionals with the opportunity to build stable careers and better futures for themselves and their families”.

“These sponsorships not only strengthen our team with skilled and compassionate workers, but also foster a diverse and inclusive workplace that elevates the quality of care we provide.

“With a growing need for skilled workers in the industry, these initiatives have been transformative for both our organisation and the residents we serve.”