Recreational Activity Officer

Columbia Aged Care; Willoughby City Council; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Aged Care in Willoughby is seeking a Recreational Activity Officer to lead our lifestyle program, designing and delivering health and leisure activities that meet diverse resident needs and promote dignity and joy.

You will plan complex lifestyle supports, run group and one-on-one activities, monitor wellbeing, and document progress in line with care standards. A Certificate IV in Leisure and Health and a current First Aid certificate are required; Australian work rights apply.

Qualifications

• Certificate IV in Leisure and Health (or equivalent).
• Current First Aid Certificate.
• Experience as Lifestyle or Recreational Activity Officer in Aged Care preferred.
• Experience working with people living with dementia.
• Full working rights in Australia and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

Responsibilities

• Complex Care Planning: develop person-centered lifestyle plans.
• Program Innovation: design and evaluate activities for movement, mental stimulation, and social connection.
• Health Monitoring: check physical health status and emotional wellbeing.
• Clinical Documentation: maintain records per standards and protocols.
• Community Building: lead group excursions and in-house events.

Skills

Dementia care experience

Group activity coordination

Communication skills

Documentation of assessments

Education

Certificate IV in Leisure and Health

Tools

First Aid Certificate

Job description

As our Recreational Activity Officer , you will be the driving force behind our lifestyle department. You will be responsible for the end-to-end design and delivery of innovative health and leisure programs that cater to the diverse needs of our residents. Your work directly impacts the quality of life for our older people, fostering a sense of belonging and joy every single day.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Complex Care Planning : Develop and implement person-centered lifestyle plans with complex needs, including those living with dementia or specialised cognitive requirements.
• Program Innovation: Design, facilitate, and evaluate a diverse calendar of group and individual activities that promote physical movement, mental stimulation, and social connection.
• Health Monitoring : Conduct regular checks on physical health status and emotional wellbeing, ensuring all activities are safe, appropriate, and beneficial.
• Clinical Documentation : Maintain accurate, confidential records of participation and progress in accordance with the Aged Care Quality Standards and facility protocols.
• Community Building : Lead group excursions and in-house events, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages autonomy and choice.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Previous experience as a Lifestyle or Recreational Activity Officer within the Aged Care sector is preferred.
• A minimum of a Certificate IV in Leisure and Health (or equivalent).
• Hold a Current First Aid Certificate.
• Demonstrated experience in a similar role particularly working with people living with dementia.
• Proven track record to deliver both high-energy group activities and intimate, meaningful one-on-one sessions.
• Has full working rights in Australia and a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to document assessments, care plans and progress notes.
• A deep, infectious passion for enhancing the lives of older adults and a commitment to their dignity and rights.