Beyond the Careers Expo

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Written By Ben Brown
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5 Career Pathways in Canberra

Making decisions about your future can feel overwhelming, but exploring your options early is a great way to gain clarity and confidence. The Canberra Region offers a variety of pathways for students in Years 10, 11, and 12 to connect with the world of work. These paths are not one-size-fits-all, and understanding your options is the first step, whether it's university, VET, an apprenticeship, starting a business, or heading straight to employment.

Here is a guide to different pathways and how you can get started in Canberra.

1. The University Pathway

A university degree is a great option, especially if you have a clear passion for a professional field like law, medicine, or research. In the ACT, university degrees are a common choice for school leavers. Data from 2022 graduates shows that 64% of males and 76% of females chose to pursue higher education.

What to do now: Start researching courses that align with your interests. You can use resources like the Course Finder website and explore the Holland Code framework, which helps you match your interests—like being investigative, artistic, or social—with potential careers.  

Here's a breakdown of the university pathway, including key data and resources:

  • In 2022, a significant majority of graduates who chose to continue their education went into higher education. The data shows that 64% of male graduates and 76% of female graduates chose to attend university. Additionally, of the students who were in higher education in 2022, 98% were still studying in 2023, with 95% of those still studying in 2024.

    University Education in Canberra: Canberra is home to world-class educational institutions, including:

    • The Australian National University (ANU): A research-intensive university that works with government and industry to solve global challenges.

    • The University of Canberra (UC): This university emphasizes accessibility and has a strong focus on work-integrated learning, where students gain practical experience through internships and projects. They also offer an exclusive STEM Fair for students.

    • Australian Catholic University (ACU): The Signadou campus in Watson is located close to the city center and offers a supportive learning environment. The university has a strong focus on health sciences, education, and the arts, and boasts a high graduate employment rate.

    • UNSW Canberra: Located at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), UNSW Canberra is a unique partnership that provides military and academic education to future leaders. They are also developing a new city campus, which will expand their offerings in areas like business, engineering, and cyber security for a wider student population.

  • A much higher percentage of the ACT population holds a Bachelor's, Graduate Diploma, and Post-Graduate Degree compared to the national average.

    • Course Finder: A tool to help you search for and compare courses across Australia.

    • Commonwealth Grant Scheme: Provides information on government funding for higher education.

    • Study Assist: Offers details on student loans and financial support like HELP.

    • My Future: A comprehensive career information and exploration website.

2. The VET Pathway

(Vocational Education and Training)
VET focuses on practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to a job. In 2022, 33% of male and 22% of female graduates pursued a VET pathway. It's a great choice if you prefer hands-on learning and want to enter the workforce with a nationally recognized qualification.

What to do now: Consider VET courses offered at institutions like the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT). The ACT Government has also developed Industry Action Plans for key growth areas, which highlight a need for skilled workers in fields like building and construction, renewables, and the caring sector. These action plans can help you identify high-demand jobs.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) and TAFE pathways offer a practical alternative to university, providing students with job-ready skills and direct routes to employment. The VET system in Canberra is a well-established pathway with strong connections to industry.

  • Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT): As the primary vocational education provider in the ACT, CIT offers a wide range of courses and a supportive, adult learning environment. They provide pathways to further study at universities, including the University of Canberra (UC), the Australian National University (ANU), and the Australian Catholic University (ACU) through credit transfer arrangements.

    School-Based Programs: Many high schools and colleges in Canberra, such as Lake Tuggeranong College, St Edmund's College, and Dickson College, offer VET courses as part of their senior secondary curriculum. These programs often include structured workplace learning, where students can apply their skills in real-world settings.

    Australian School-Based Apprenticeships (ASBAs): For students aged 15 and over, ASBAs allow them to combine paid work and training with their school studies. An ASBA can contribute to the ACT Senior Secondary Certificate and can lead to a nationally recognised qualification at the Certificate II or III level.

    VET Student Outcomes: VET programs can lead to significant post-school success. Students who undertake school-based apprenticeships and traineeships are among the most likely to be in full-time, permanent employment five years after their studies. Additionally, VET graduates who completed a qualification in 2019-20 showed an 84% employment rate after finishing their course, a 15% increase from before they enrolled.

  • Practical Skills: VET courses are competency-based and focus on developing practical, workplace-relevant skills. The curriculum is updated in line with National Training Packages, ensuring skills are current and endorsed by industry.

    Nationally Recognised Qualifications: Students who complete VET programs receive nationally recognised qualifications that are valuable for both employment and further training.

    Credit Transfer: Your VET qualification can be used for credit towards a university degree, potentially shortening the duration and cost of a bachelor's program.

    Diverse Study Areas: VET options are available in a wide variety of industries, including construction, business, IT, hospitality, and hairdressing.

3. The Apprenticeship and Traineeship Pathway

An apprenticeship or traineeship allows you to earn an income while gaining a formal qualification. This pathway is particularly strong in the construction and skilled trades sectors, with data showing a significant number of graduates entering this field. For example, in 2022, 13.5% of male graduates and 2.2% of female graduates went into apprenticeships.

What to do now: Look into Australian School-based Apprenticeships (ASbAs). The ACT Government offers these programs, which allow you to work part-time while completing your secondary education, giving you a head start on your career. You can also research the ACT Government's Industry Action Plans to see which industries have the most demand for apprentices and trainees.

Navigating apprenticeships and traineeships in Canberra is a great career path, offering a chance to earn an income while you learn. Unlike Australian School-based Apprenticeships (ASBAs), these programs are open to a wider range of people, including school leavers and adults seeking a career change or to re-enter the workforce.

  • ACT Government: The ACT and Australian Governments jointly fund apprenticeships and traineeships in the ACT. Organizations like the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) are the largest vocational education and training (VET) providers, offering a variety of courses and on-the-job training.

    Australian Government: The Australian Government's own apprenticeship programs are a significant pathway, especially for roles in policy, planning, and regulation. These programs offer a competitive salary and lead to a nationally recognized Diploma of Government. They are open to Australian citizens and welcome people from all backgrounds and age groups.

    Industry and Private Employers: Many private businesses in Canberra offer apprenticeships and traineeships in a wide range of fields, including:

    • Trades (e.g., plumbing, carpentry, electrical, automotive)

    • Community Services (e.g., early childhood education, aged care)

    • Hospitality and Culinary Arts

    • Information Technology

    • Business and Administration

  • The process for starting a non-school-based apprenticeship or traineeship generally involves a few key steps:

    1. Find an employer: You need to be employed by a business that is willing to take you on as an apprentice or trainee.

    2. Choose a Registered Training Organisation (RTO): Once you have an employer, you will need to choose an approved RTO, such as CIT, to provide the formal off-the-job training.

    3. Sign a training contract: You and your employer must sign a formal training contract that is registered with the relevant state or territory training authority, which in the ACT is Skills Canberra.

    4. Enrol in a course: The training contract will outline the nationally recognized qualification you will be working towards. You will then enrol in this course with your chosen RTO.

  • Apprentice Connect Australia: These providers, such as MAS National and MEGT, are contracted by the Australian Government to offer free support services. They can help with signing up for a training contract, providing mentoring, and offering technical support.

    Financial Incentives: The ACT Government provides funding to subsidize the cost of training, and apprentices may be eligible for a completion payment of up to $300 upon successful completion of their qualification.

    Wages and Entitlements: As an apprentice, you are an employee. You will be paid at least the minimum wage in your award or agreement, and you are generally entitled to superannuation and other entitlements like any other employee. Adult apprentices (21 years or older) may be eligible for specific pay rates.

    Trade Support Loans: Eligible apprentices can apply for an Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan, which can provide up to $24,492 over the course of their apprenticeship to help with living expenses.

4. The Entrepreneurial Pathway

If you have an idea and a desire to be your own boss, Canberra is a supportive city for starting a business. The number of small businesses in the ACT grew by 3.5% in 2022-23, the highest growth in the country. Canberra has a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs.

What to do now: Take advantage of resources like Canberra's Small Business Support Networks or free business advice offered by the ACT Government. These services can provide guidance on everything from business plans to marketing. The Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) also offers programs to help new businesses get started.

  • Small Business Growth and Landscape

    • As of June 30, 2023, there were 33,992 small businesses in the ACT.

    • The number of small businesses grew by 3.5% in 2022-23, which was the highest growth rate in the country.

    • Key areas with a high concentration of small businesses include Civic, Fyshwick, Kingston, Deakin, and Gungahlin.

    • The ACT government has a Small Business Strategy to focus on improving the business experience, providing support for growth and innovation, promoting small businesses, and future-proofing.

    Support Networks and Resources

    • You can find support networks for starting a business in Canberra through Canberra.com.au.

    • The Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS) offers four hours of free business advice.

    • The ACT government also provides a business support directory.

  • Building a personal brand as a content creator involves a number of key steps to establish a recognizable digital presence and attract an audience.

    1. Define your brand identity and niche:

    • Know your audience: Understand who you are trying to reach. Use analytics and engage with your followers to learn about their interests and needs.

    • Define your niche and unique selling proposition (USP): Identify a specific area of expertise or interest and what sets you apart from other creators.

    • Create a brand statement: Write a concise statement that communicates who you are and what you do.

    • Be authentic: Your personal brand should reflect your genuine values and personality.

    2. Develop your content strategy:

    • Create a content strategy: Plan your content and post consistently. This helps build trust and ensures your audience knows what to expect.

    • Produce high-quality content: Your content should be informative, valuable, and engaging.

    • Choose platforms strategically: You don't need to be everywhere; focus on the platforms where your target audience is most active.

    • Tell your story: Weave your personal narrative into your content to give your audience insight into your "why" and connect with them on a deeper level.

    3. Build your brand visually and consistently:

    • Develop a visual identity: Create a consistent look across all platforms, including a color palette, typography, and imagery.

    • Create a logo: A unique and memorable logo helps your audience identify your brand.

    • Ensure consistency: Maintain a consistent style, voice, and messaging across all your channels.

    4. Engage and expand your reach:

    • Engage with your audience: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and build a community around your content.

    • Collaborate with others: Partner with other creators or brands that share your values to expand your reach and build trust with new audiences.

    • Leverage AI tools: AI can assist with content creation, social media management, market research, and search engine optimization (SEO).

5. The Direct Employment Pathway

For some students, the best path is straight into the workforce. This is a viable option, especially with the high employment rate in Canberra. Certain industries have a high concentration of jobs, such as public administration, healthcare, and professional services.

What to do now: Gain experience through part-time jobs or volunteer work. The ACT Education Directorate supports work experience programs for students in Years 9 to 12. Use resources like the National Jobs and Skills Dashboard to explore which occupations are growing and where there are skill shortages. This information can help you identify a career path with good long-term prospects.

  • General Question for Jobseekers: How to Prepare

    • Am I willing to relocate for a job? Explore job opportunities in your local area, and then consider if you'd need or want to move for your desired career.

    • Do I need more education or training? Assess your current skills and qualifications against the requirements of the jobs you are interested in. Be prepared to undertake further study if the field demands it.

    • Can I earn what I need to support myself? Research the typical salary range for the roles you're applying for, keeping in mind that entry-level positions often have lower starting wages.

    • What kind of work schedule am I looking for? Decide if you prefer full-time, part-time, or flexible hours, and research if your target jobs typically offer these options.

    • How competitive is the job I'm seeking? Look into how many jobs are available in that field versus the number of people who might be applying for them.

    • Is this a growing industry? Find out if the number of jobs in the industry is increasing or decreasing, as this can indicate future demand.

    • What is the current job market like for my field? Understand the level of competition for positions in your chosen field by looking at the general unemployment rate.

    • Am I a good fit for the jobs available? Determine what skills are in high demand and whether you have those skills. This can help you identify a career path that aligns with your abilities and training.

  • Looking for a job in Canberra can be a unique experience, given that the city's job market is heavily influenced by the public service sector, as well as by industries like healthcare, education, and professional services. Many roles in the capital territory are directly with the Australian Public Service (APS) or with private companies that support government operations.

    While the government is a major employer, there are also numerous opportunities in other fields. To begin your job search, it's best to start with a mix of general job platforms and government-specific resources.

    Useful Links for Your Job Search

    Here is a list of websites to get you started on your employment search in Canberra:

    General Job Platforms

    • Seek: Australia's largest job search website, with a wide variety of listings across all industries. https://www.seek.com.au/

    • Indeed: A global job search engine with a strong presence in Australia, offering a vast database of job postings and company reviews. https://au.indeed.com/

    • LinkedIn: A professional networking platform where you can connect with recruiters, find job opportunities, and showcase your professional profile. https://www.linkedin.com/

    Canberra-Specific Resources

    • Careers ACT: This is the official site for careers within the ACT Public Service. https://www.jobs.act.gov.au/

    • APS Jobs: The Australian Public Service (APS) Jobs website lists all government vacancies across the country. https://www.apsc.gov.au/

    • Locus Education and Career Consulting: We here at Locus can support your career journey at any stage of educational, employment, and support pathways in the Canberra region.

Support and Resources for Your Pathway

Ben Brown
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