Careers
Bairnsdale Secondary College is committed to delivering high quality career development services. We are active participants in our local community and have strong links with local industry, education providers and the Gippsland East Local Learning and Employment Network. Our dedicated Career Practitioners are qualified members of the Australian Centre for Career Education and actively support our students in exploring their future career options through a range of tailored services, programs and activities:
Career Counselling Career Action Plans
OHS Programs Work Experience Program
Structured Workplace Learning Vocational Education and Training
School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships My Career Insights Program
Guest Speakers Incursions
Excursions Newsletters
Career Lessons Resume Writing
Job Applications VTAC Support
Senior Careers:
Angela Wren - angela.wren@education.vic.gov.au - 8.30am-4.00pm (Mon-Thurs)
Liz Stevens - liz.stevens@education.vic.gov.au - 8:30am-4.00pm (Mon-Fri)
Junior Careers:
Jaclyn Powell - jaclyn.powell@education.vic.gov.au - 8.30am-4.00pm (Mon-Wed)
Compass and Careers Website Newsfeeds
Student communication about careers and opportunities are updated via the Compass newsfeed pages, and the Bairnsdale Secondary College Careers Website (through Study Work Grow).
Career events, excursions, apprenticeship/traineeship opportunities, guest speakers, etc. are shared with students via these alerts, so please keep an eye out for the latest opportunities.
Bairnsdale Secondary College – Study Work Grow Education
Job Opportunities
Events
BRHS Career Information Session - 24th March
Explore Your Paths Career Expo - 25th March (year 9 & 10 students)
If you are interested in this opportunity, please sign up at your year level hubs! Limited spots available.
Construction Induction Course (CIC)
Spots are filling fast for the next CIC course being held at the school on the 12th May.
This one-day course is a requirement for any student wanting to undertake work experience in the building and construction industry. There is a cost of $90. Please see Vicki Halford in Senior Careers, or Jaclyn Powell in Junior Careers if interested.
The following events are not Bairnsdale Secondary College events.
Melbourne Polytechnic | Online Information Sessions
Choosing a brand-new career path, knowing where to upgrade your skills or how to start doesn’t need to be a decision you make alone. Hosted by teachers who can answer questions and offer advice on your chosen field, their information sessions help you make an informed decision around your study and career options.
Graphic Design – 24th February
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Diploma of Graphic Design
Diploma of Graphic Design Info Session
Drama & Theatre Arts – 24th February
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services – Costume
- Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services – Live Production
- Diploma of Screen and Media – Specialist Make-Up Services
- Diploma of Theatre Arts
Drama and Theatre Arts Info Session 24th February
Screen & Media – 26th February
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Certificate IV in Screen and Media
- Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media
Screen and Media Info Session 26th February
Music & Sound – 26th February
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Certificate IV in Music – Sound Production
- Diploma of Music
- Advanced Diploma of Music – Performance
- Advanced Diploma of Music – Sound Production
Music and Sound Info Session 26th February
Music & Sound – 10th March
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Bachelor of Songwriting and Music Production
Bachelor of Songwriting and Music Production Info Session 10th March
Webinars for Parents and Carers from the eSafety Commissioner
Social Media Age Restrictions Explained - 24th February
From 10 December 2025, certain social media platforms won’t be allowed to let Australian children under 16 create or keep an account. Join the information session to understand the changes.
This 30-minute webinar will help parents and carers understand the upcoming changes to social media access for children under 16.
Join the information session to:
- understand the purpose of the new age restrictions and how they aim to protect young Australians
- understand which platforms will require users to be 16+ and what platforms they can still access
- get tips and resources to support your child’s online safety and wellbeing through the transition.
Parents and carers will gain:
- a clear understanding of the new rules and their implications
- confidence in guiding their child through these changes
- access to trusted resources to support safe and positive online engagement.
This webinar is offered more than once, so you can select the date and time that works best for you.
Understanding and Using Parental Controls to Help Protect Your Child Online - 5th March
Learn how parental controls can be used to prevent children accessing harmful content, manage time spent online and who they communicate with.
In this 45-minute webinar, we’ll explore how parental controls can be used alongside other online safety strategies to protect your child online.
You’ll learn:
- the types of parental controls available – including on smart devices, in gaming platforms and on apps
- how they can help prevent children accessing harmful content
- how to use them to complement other online safety strategies.
This session is suitable for parents and carers of young people in primary and secondary school.
STEM + X: Science - Webinar for students, teachers & parents - 25th February
The world is changing so fast, but science skills are only gaining importance. There’s huge demand from emerging science fields including quantum computing and genetic engineering. And existing science fields like ag science and astrophysics are transforming fast too. The question isn’t 'why science', it's 'which science'?
Join Careers with STEM for a free STEM + X career webinar, supported by QUT, to hear from science aces blazing a trail from horse hoof disease to lithium ion battery tech, to growing crops in space!
Crimson Global Academy | Short-Term Online Schooling for Students Facing Anxiety, Bullying, or Medical Challenges - Webinar for Parents with CGA - 25th February
When a student is facing bullying, anxiety, or medical challenges, the mainstream environment often becomes a barrier to learning. Expert educator Dr. Rebecca English (QUT) will discuss how a structured, short-term move to online schooling can act as a vital circuit breaker. This approach allows students to reset their confidence and academic progress. In this session, Dr. English and CGA’s Head of Admissions will explore:
- The Changing Landscape: Why the "accidental homeschooler" is the fastest-growing demographic in education.
- The Circuit Breaker: What a short-term Crimson Global Academy (CGA) plan looks like and the paths to either returning to school or completing school with CGA.
- Social Safety: Debunking the socialisation myth and explaining why removing toxic school dynamics often leads to better social outcomes.
- The Tipping Point: How to recognise when "pushing through" is no longer working and it’s time to make a change.
UniMelb Hansen Scholarship Program Information Session, Online – 26th February & 19th March
Talented year 12 students, parents, careers practitioners, and other support people are invited to join UniMelb for an information evening to learn more about the University’s most generous undergraduate scholarship: the Hansen Scholarship. As a Hansen Scholar, you’ll join a program that nurtures potential and provides a place where your ambition can grow, offering you access to a high-quality university education that might otherwise feel out of reach. Valued at up to $108,000, this scholarship offers a fully funded place to call home at Little Hall for three years. Alongside the close-knit residential community, tailored mentoring, extracurricular activities and focused financial support will set you up for success. In this one-hour session, they’ll cover:
- Benefits of the program including the fully-funded offerings of Little Hall
- Eligibility and selection criteria
- Timelines and the application process
- Tips and advice on submitting a competitive application
You’ll hear from a current Hansen Scholar who will share their experiences about the program and be available to answer your questions. A recording of the session will be made available for registrants who cannot tune in on the night.
Hansen Scholarship Program information session (February)
Hansen Scholarship Program information session (March)
Victoria Police
Inside the Recruitment Process, Online Webinar – 26th February
Victoria Police are hosting an online information session for members of the community who are:
- thinking of starting an application to join Victoria Police
- currently going through the recruitment process and need more information
- currently in the process of completing an application
This session has been created to guide you through the steps of completing a strong application, with helpful tips and tricks that apply to each stage of the recruitment process.
Careers Information Session – Victoria Police Centre – 3rd March
Victoria Police are inviting you to an exclusive Victoria Police Careers Information Session – a rare chance to get an inside look into the fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding world of policing. What to expect:
- Unlock the secrets to the recruitment process
- Discover the intensive, hands-on training at the Victoria Police Academy
- Explore career pathways beyond general duties policing
- Learn about specialist units tackling everything from major crime to community engagement
- Hear firsthand stories from those who serve and protect every day
This is your exclusive invitation to gain behind-the-scenes access to the Victoria Police Centre – a location typically closed to the public. Don’t miss your chance to experience the energy and excitement of policing like never before!
Life at the Academy – Online Webinar – 12th March
Curious about joining Victoria Police or already in the recruitment process? Wondering what life is really like at the Academy? Don’t miss this exclusive online information session—your ultimate insider guide to the Victoria Police Academy experience! Join in for a deep dive into Academy life for Police Officers, whilst touching on training for Protective Services Officers, and Police Custody Officers. Get the real scoop on what your training journey will look like, week by week. They’ll break down everything from exams to fitness training, on-site accommodation to support systems—and even salary details.
Become a Police Custody Officer, Online Webinar – 30th March
Victoria Police is hosting an online information session for members of the community who are interested in a career as a Police Custody Officer. Hear from them about the recruitment process and training at the Police Academy. It’s also your opportunity to ask questions you have about a PCO career pathway.
ADHD Webinars for Students & Parents
Hosted by Claire Pech, CICA-Accredited Careers Practitioner, and Amanda Krulis, endorsed Organisational Psychologist.
View the full series of webinars for the ADHD community on all things careers, schooling and the workforce.
Year 12 & Beyond with ADHD - 26th February, 2026
Targeted to parents of students with ADHD in Year 12, this webinar will share insights and practical solutions for managing this critical year and beyond and making meaningful career decisions.
2026 - Year 12 & Beyond - With ADHD
Year 10 & Beyond with ADHD - 5th March, 2026
For parents of students with ADHD in Year 10, this webinar explores how to navigate the key decision points of the senior school years, support effective planning for post-school options, and help your teen build confidence in their future direction.
They’ll unpack the unique challenges ADHD can bring to this stage — from planning and procrastination to emotional regulation — and explore how to make study and career decisions that align with your child’s strengths, values, and readiness.
Year 10 Subject Choices with ADHD – 21st May
Getting through the final school years with ADHD can be challenging — and choosing subjects that don’t suit your strengths or learning style can make it even harder. This webinar is designed to help parents of students with ADHD in Year 10 understand how to make subject selections that support motivation, confidence, and success.
Year 10 Subject Choices with ADHD
Endota Wellness College (eWC) | Open Day – 28th February
eWC invites you to go to Open Day February 2026. Learn how they get their students job-ready within Australia’s largest spa network. Discover where the beauty and wellness industry can take you, chat with the team, enjoy and interactive masterclass, have your questions answered and follow your calling in Beauty Therapy.
Reserve your place at our Open Day – endota Wellness College
SWTAFE | Course Info Sessions – 11th March
Get info. Get help. Get enrolled. Attend an information session for your chosen course area and find out about study at South West TAFE.
https://open.swtafe.edu.au/register-info-session/
Holmesglen Institute | Open Day – 12th March
Open Day is a great opportunity for you to meet with teachers, explore the campuses and study facilities, and get a feel for Holmesglen life. The sessions include presentations, tours and Q&As – perfect for helping you map out your future study and career plans. Plus, the friendly team is also available to help you apply on the day.
Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) | Information Evening for Future Students, Melbourne & online – 12th March
Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, film, 3D animation and visual effects at the AIE Information Evening. The evening will include presentations on different areas of industry to get into as well as information about AIE full-time and part-time courses and entry requirements. We will be showing off AIE student work and the staff and teachers will be available to chat with you about courses and how AIE can get you into a creative career.
Information Evening | Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE)
National Fashion College | Open Day, Melbourne - 12th March
Unlock a world of limitless possibilities at National Fashion College, where your fashion journey begins at the iconic Melbourne Campus! Step into a realm of unmatched creativity and immerse yourself in the forefront of fashion innovation. Their pioneering courses, dynamic internship opportunities, and exclusive access to the buzz of Australian, New York, and London Fashion Weeks will propel you into the heart of the global fashion scene. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and transformed - they can't wait to welcome you! If these times don't suit you, you can always book in for a private appointment or tour instead.
OPEN DAYS — National Fashion College
Simpson Barracks Army Expo: Simpson Barracks - 14th March
Charles Sturt University (CSU) | Explore Day for Year 10, 11 & 12 Students, Bathurst – 17th March
Are you in Year 10, 11 or 12? Get a feel for uni life at this hands-on Explore Day! Looking for the perfect blend of city meets country vibes? From cafés and wineries to festivals and galleries, you’ll get the best of both worlds in Bathurst. Explore Day features lots of workshops you can take part in, based on careers and courses you’re interested in. You’ll need to book a spot in any workshop you’d like to attend. You’ll be able to:
- talk to academics about courses and careers.
- attend tours of facilities and social spaces.
- enjoy a delicious morning tea on arrival and a free lunch.
- bring along your parents or carers, teachers and friends. All buildings are accessible, so if you’re a person with disabilities, you’ll be able to take part in everything.
University of Queensland (UQ) | Medicine Information Evening, Online – 18th March
Attend this information session to learn about studying medicine at The University of Queensland (UQ). Hear from UQ Medical School staff, UQ alumni and current students on the changing medical climate, how to apply for medicine at UQ, and tips for success. What’s involved:
- Learn about admission requirements and how to apply for the Doctor of Medicine (MD).
- Gain insight into UQ’s MD program structure, clinical placements, learning experiences and student support.
- Explore entry pathways, including partnerships with CQUniversity and UniSQ.
- Hear from UQ Medical School academics about UQ’s new medical pathway.
- Hear insights from recent graduates and current students.
- Participate in an interactive Q&A with alumni and current students.
Medicine information evening – Study – The University of Queensland
Victorian Careers & Employment Expo - 19th-21st March
Victorian Careers & Employment Expo is open from March 19 to 21, 2026 at the Melbourne Showgrounds. The Expo will showcase over 130 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. Entry is free.
The event is for school students, parents, teachers, graduates, job seekers, people looking for courses, and workers seeking new opportunities.
The Expo is packed with free advice, where you can:
- Talk with over 130 training organisations and employers
- Gain free career advice
- Discover jobs of the future
- Talk with leading organisations about training and apprenticeships
- Experience the free career seminars
- Enjoy the "Try a Skill" Zones
If you're looking for a job, career change, or course, or you're a school student looking for a career path, you can’t afford to miss the Expo.
Victorian Careers & Employment Expo
Griffith University | Pathways to Medicine Information Session, Online – 24th March
Embark on your journey to a rewarding medical career at Griffith University with the Pathways to Medicine online information session. Get clear, first-hand advice from Griffith admissions experts, medical teaching staff, and current students who have successfully navigated the same pathways – helping you understand your options and apply with confidence. Discover all you need to know about studying medicine at Griffith, from choosing the right undergraduate degree to understanding admissions processes and pathway options. Why attend?
- Explore the different pathways into Griffith’s Doctor of Medicine
- Learn which undergraduate degrees can lead to medicine
- Understand how GUMSAA and GEMSAS are used in the selection process
- Get guidance on the Rural Priority Access Scheme
- Hear real experiences and tips from current Griffith medical students
- Ask your questions during a live Q&A session
Pathways to medicine info session
William Angliss | Institute Discovery Day, Melbourne – 26th March
Join in for Discovery Day and explore the state-of-the-art facilities, meet the expert academics and industry trainers, and learn more about the diverse range of courses – from Certificates to Postgraduate degrees – in the specialist areas of Foods, Tourism, Hospitality, and Events. What you learn:
- Access detailed course information
- Engage directly with Angliss staff and students and have your questions answered
- Experience the vibrant inner-city campus and facilities
- Explore career and education pathways from short course, certificates, diplomas, degrees and post graduate courses across Foods, Tourism, Hospitality, and Events
Australian National University (ANU) | Open Day - 28th March
This is a chance for you to tour ANU'S beautiful campus, learn about our courses and programs and hear about the student experience from current ANU students.
Students who register to attend ANU Open Day will go in the draw to win a trip for two to Canberra!
ANU Open Day | The Australian National University
Australian College of Applied Professions (ACAP) | Info Night, Melbourne – 23rd April
Join ACAP on campus and discover how they can help you make a real difference in the lives of others. Find out about the degrees in psychology, social work, counselling, criminology, coaching and law, as well as the career paths available to you. ACAP’s degrees of difference have been shaping futures for over four decades. As a global leader in the vast field of applied psychology, their professionally accredited qualifications contribute to societal well-being, embodying values of integrity, equity, and social justice. Join the on-campus info night and discover their industry-driven programs, meet industry experts and see how ACAP can help you achieve a career that’ll make a real degree of difference.
ACAP Info Night Melbourne | 23 April 2026
School of Audio Engineering (SAE) University College | Info Night, Melbourne – 23rd April
Just make the first move in your dream career – join SAE at your local campus for Info Night! This is your chance to get a feel for the vibe at an SAE campus. Explore the creative and technology courses, meet industry experts and chat to the campus teams about student life. You can even take a tour of our facilities and check out some of the awesome student projects on display.
You’re invited to SAE Melbourne’s Info Night
VCE and Careers Expo - 30th April-2nd May
The VCE and Careers Expo 2026 is Melbourne's biggest education and career event, for 34 years connecting over a million high school students, parents, teachers, and jobseekers explore study and employment pathways. It brings together universities, TAFEs, training providers, employers, and career advisers in one location to provide practical information about courses, apprenticeships, and career options.
The event aims to support informed decision-making about future study and work choices through exhibits and VCE seminar presentations.
VCE and Careers Expo 2026 | Melbourne's Premier Careers and Education Event
Dairy Program Expression of Interest - April School Holidays
Are you aged 15-17 and curious about the dairy industry? A Next Gen Dairy program is being planned. GippsDairy is exploring interest for a 3-day program during the April 2026 school holidays, designed for young people who want to gain a deeper understanding of the dairy sector — from farm to factory and beyond!
Participants will:
- Visit leading dairy farms and processors
- Learn about animal care, technology, and sustainability
- Meet people working across the industry
- Explore career and training pathways
Expressing interest will require parent/guardian contact details and basic information about the young person.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NexGenEOI
Please note this is not a Bairnsdale Secondary College Event and will be run and coordinated by Gipps Dairy.
Future Doctors Australia
The Future Doctors Australia Program provides a unique, hands-on opportunity for students aged 14-18 who are passionate about a future in medicine. Over the course of 4 days, participants will engage in dynamic sessions led by experienced medical specialists, take part in practical learning activities, and gain valuable insights into the medical admissions process. This program is designed to inspire and equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed on their path to a medical career. Don’t miss this chance to gain first-hand knowledge and mentorship from medical professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare.
2026 dates:
| Sydney | 9 -12 April (92% full) |
| Sydney | 16 - 19 April (63% full) |
| Melbourne | 16 - 19 April (29% full) |
| Brisbane | 2 - 5 July (13% full) |
| Sydney | 9 - 12 July (29% full) |
| Perth | 16 - 19 July (17% full) |
| Brisbane | 19 - 22 September |
| Melbourne | 24 - 27 September (17% full) |
| Sydney | 1 - 4 October (4% full) |
| Brisbane | 17 - 20 December |
NIE Careers | Future Doctors Australia
Australian Catholic University (ACU) | Talk with Industry Series
Curious about where your study could take you? Join the Talk with Industry Series - a range of online Q&A sessions connecting you directly with ACU students and graduates across diverse fields. Hear authentic stories from those who've walked the path you're considering. The alumni share real insights about their careers post-graduation, while current students offer a genuine look at campus life and coursework. Whether you're certain about your direction or just starting to explore possibilities, these conversations will provide the clarity you need. No matter where you are in your decision-making journey, you'll gain valuable perspectives on what studying and working in your chosen field truly involves.
- Talk with Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists - Webinar Registration - Zoom 6th May
- Talk with Teachers and Educators - Webinar Registration - Zoom 7th May
- Talk with Nurses, Midwives and Paramedics - Webinar Registration - Zoom 13th May
- Talk with Law, Criminology and Business Professionals - Webinar Registration - Zoom 14th May
- Talk with Art Students and Graduates - Webinar Registration - Zoom 20th May
- Talk with Biomedicine and Nutrition Experts - Webinar Registration - Zoom 21st May
Victorian Careers Show - 13th-15th May
The Victorian Careers Show 2026 is teacher-founded and teacher-led, connecting VCE students, teachers, jobseekers and parents with Victoria's top universities, TAFEs, training providers, employers and career experts. It is designed to help high school students, parents, teachers, and jobseekers explore study and employment pathways. It brings together universities, TAFEs, training providers, employers, and career advisers in one location to provide practical information about courses, apprenticeships, and career options.
The event aims to support informed decision-making about future study and work choices through exhibits and VCE seminar presentations.
Victorian Careers Show 2026 | Melbourne Showgrounds Careers & Education Expo
Federation University | Open Days
Gippsland - 9th August
Berwick - 16th August
Ballarat - 23rd August
Work Experience
Work Experience (WE)/Structured Workplace learning (SWL)/School Based Apprenticeships/Traineeships (SBAT)
Work experience is available to students that are 15+ years old.
SWL is available to students doing a VET Course in their VCE/VM Pathway.
SBAT’s are available to Year 10-12 students through our Headstart Program by application and availability only.
Work Experience Opportunities
Please ensure you have considered the travel time and distance to and from your home as well as accommodation BEFORE you apply for any work experience placements. Please let careers know if you will be applying for any opportunities listed.
Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) - Work Experience (year 10-12 students)
The AIE Work Experience Program is a great way for secondary school students in years 10 to 12 to learn about the interactive entertainment and digital industries. The week will open the door to the range of career possibilities in the industry and allow students to get hands-on with the tools of the trade.
Dates to select from:
13th-17th April
6th-10th July
28th September-2nd October
Applications open now.
Work Experience Melbourne | Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE)
Swinburne University Work Experience (ages 15+)
Swinburne University of Technology welcomes senior secondary students to participate in work experience at the university. These one-week placements give students the opportunity to work with their academics and professional staff and to:
• develop employability skills
• explore possible career options
• understand employer expectations
• build self-understanding, maturity, independence and self-confidence
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Program overview
Students will learn aspects of astronomy and astrophysics research at Swinburne.
Students will have a chance to:
• Search for pulsar signatures in radio observations.
• Classify galaxy morphologies.
• Identify strong gravitational lenses.
• Search for peculiar motions in simulated galaxy mergers.
• Produce visualisations of galaxies and galaxy groups.
• Participate in real-time remote observations.
• Attend scientific talks and group meetings.
• Prepare teaching materials.
Applications for the astronomy and astrophysics program open Monday 16 February 2026 and will close Friday 6 March 2026. You will be asked to submit your resume and a cover letter that expresses your interest in the program. Places are limited, and applicants will be informed of their outcome by 31 March 2026.
Program dates and an application link will be published in early 2026. For inquiries, please email CASWorkExperience@swinburne.edu.au
Engineering
Program overview
Students will experience different disciplines of Engineering at Swinburne.
Students will have a chance to:
• Gain knowledge about different Engineering disciplines including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics, Biomedical, Robotics & Mechatronics, and Software Engineering.
• Learn about relevant cutting-edge research and real-world engineering applications.
• Work in laboratories and gain exposure to emerging areas such as Renewable Energy Systems.
• Undertake a short project during their stay, encouraging independent learning and problem-solving skills.
• Spend time with current Swinburne engineering students on campus, including involvement with FSAE teams assisting with vehicle design, testing, and build activities.
• Inspect a Hybrid Electric Vehicle designed and built by Swinburne engineering students.
• Attend information sessions about Swinburne’s engineering offerings and future career pathways.
Applications for the Engineering program will open from 1 May 2026 and will close on 1 June 2026. The program will run on the following dates:
- Monday 22 June to Friday 26 June 2026
To apply, please complete this form and submit your resume. Places are limited, and candidates will be notified of their results via email by 16 June 2026. For inquiries, please email Assoc. Prof. Mehran Ektesabi at mektesabi@swinburne.edu.au.
University of Melbourne - Faculty of Science Work Experience (year 10 students, 15+)
The University of Melbourne Year 10 Work Experience Program provides students with a sample of activities that are part of a career in STEM including conducting experiments, attending seminars, collaborating with others on research projects, and presenting their own findings.
Participants discover what it is like to be a person working in STEM, meet like-minded friends and STEM role models, and also get a taste of university life.
The program is divided into a number of science discipline streams. Students must nominate their top three preferences as part of the application process. They must also name a research group or particular staff member they would like to be placed with and explain why. During the week, students will be hosted by academics and university staff working in one of their preferences, and also spend some time interacting with students from other groups.
Program Streams:
- Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences (SAFES)
- BioSciences
- Chemistry
- Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (SGEAS)
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Physics
Fill out the Expression of Interest survey to be part of the 2026 application pool. Applications will close 28 February 2026.
Defence Work Experience Programs (ages 15+)
The ADF are pleased to invite high school students aged 15–18 years to participate in Defence’s Work Experience Programs being delivered across Victoria in 2026. These youth‑focused programs introduce students to the wide range of career pathways available within the Australian Defence Force (ADF), including the Navy, Army and Air Force, as well as the Australian Public Service (APS).
All program information and links to apply online are available through their website Defence Careers - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience
Successful applicants will be notified via email. Students should read the details carefully so they understand what each program offers. They have more exciting programs planned for this year and will continually update their website as dates are confirmed. So, keep an eye on the website!
Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary Work Experience (year 9 & 10 students, 15+)
Nangak's Work Experience Program is designed to foster new skills in young people, create an awareness and appreciation of the conservation and biodiversity management industry and demonstrate the breadth of career opportunities in environmental science, research and education.
Successful applicants may assist in the following areas of the Sanctuary:
- land management
- plant production
- education
- biodiversity
- marketing, promotion & interpretation
- office & administration
- workshops & tours
The Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary cannot offer any opportunities to work with animals.
Work Experience placements run for one week from Monday to Friday on pre-selected dates throughout the year. Normal working hours are from 9.30am until 4.00pm. As part of your placement, you will be required to undertake some structured learning activities.
There are 4 places available for each of the placement weeks listed below. A maximum of two students can come from the same school for the same placement week.
Placement dates (these dates are subject to change based on other Sanctuary activities happening at the time):
| Term | Dates |
|---|---|
| 1 | 16th-20th March |
| 2 | 4th-8th May 1st-5th June |
| 3 | 27th-31st July 24th-28th August |
| 4 | 19th-23rd October |
Please ensure you have considered the travel time and distance to and from your home to Bundoora BEFORE you apply for a placement.
How to apply:
- Let careers know you will be applying
- Complete the below forms and have your parents/guardians sign them (do not need principals' signature at this stage)
- Click the following link and complete the online form - Work Experience Application Form, Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, Get involved, Secondary school students, La Trobe University
Secondary school students, Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, Get involved, La Trobe University
Northern Health Work Experience (ages 15+)
As the key provider of public health care in Melbourne’s Northern Region, Northern Health offer a comprehensive Work Experience Program for high school students. Their tailored approach aims to provide a meaningful program of activity over a standard working week.
Based on availability, students can nominate their preferred placements and locations. The 2026 Work Experience Program schedule is currently in development. 2026 program dates will be published once finalised and confirmed – please check back later or register your interest - Work Experience - Northern Health
Grandshake Virtual Work Experience (ages 14-19)
Grandshake offers a ton of awesome Virtual Work Experience programs for young people across Australia aged 14-19. These programs are a great way to get a taste of your dream career, all from your own home. And they help you learn some valuable skills along the way as well. The programs run all year, during school and the holidays, so you can sign up to start at any time. The programs typically run for four weeks, with a 2-4 hour commitment per week. Best of all, they’re totally free.
Grandshake: Connecting Students and Employers for Real-World Experiences