Course Description
In New Zealand and Australia, the Pasifika population is growing, and many older Pasifika people are accessing aged care services. Understanding Pasifika cultures is essential for care workers because it ensures care is culturally safe, respectful, and person-centred. Cultural values such as family involvement, spirituality, communal living, and respect for elders strongly influence how Pasifika people perceive health, ageing, and care.
For care workers, cultural understanding improves communication, builds trust with residents and their families, and helps ensure that care plans align with the resident’s beliefs, values, and preferences. It also supports better health outcomes by recognising culturally specific needs in nutrition, social connection, and wellbeing. Moreover, awareness of Pasifika cultural practices helps care providers comply with regulatory expectations around cultural safety and responsiveness in both New Zealand (e.g., Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles) and Australia (Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards). Therefore understanding Pasifika cultures allows care workers to deliver respectful, safe, and effective care, enhancing quality of life and supporting stronger relationships with residents, families, and the wider community.
Learning Outcomes
To build the cultural understanding, confidence, and sensitivity of aged care workers in supporting Pasifika older people by deepening knowledge of Pasifika worldviews, values, communication styles, and family structures, so staff can deliver respectful, person-centred, culturally safe care across home, community, and residential services.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
* Describe key elements of Pasifika cultures, including collectivism, spirituality, respect for elders, and the central role of family.
* Explain common communication preferences such as relational communication, respect-based language, and appropriate non-verbal behaviours.
* Identify cultural practices and values that influence care including food, privacy, gender roles, family decision-making, and traditional health beliefs.
* Apply culturally safe approaches to care, ensuring dignity, trust, and respect when supporting Pasifika elders in aged care settings.
* Engage effectively with Pasifika families, recognising their essential role in advocacy, care decisions, and emotional support for elders.
Course Code:
ACL17270-B-H-AUCPD Points:
0.25Course Availability:
Due to be released 29/06/2026Topics:
Person Centred PracticeLibrary:
Home CareCollection:
Individual Support