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

OH&S Programs Work Experience Program

Structured Workplace Learning Vocational Education and Training

School Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships Excursions & Incursions

Guest Speakers Newsletters

VTAC Support Resume Writing

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

VTAC Assembly

Year 12 students planning on applying to university will attend a VTAC Assembly on Monday 3rd August; we will discuss the application process and answer any questions.

We will be working closely with year 12 students throughout this process to ensure all students are aware of requirements and deadlines.

In order to begin an application students will need a Unique Student Identifier (USI), if you do not have one, please follow the link Create your USI - Unique Student Identifier - please forward your USI number to a member of the careers team prior to the assembly.

If you are planning on making an application or are still unsure, please follow the link VTAC home to consider your options and start researching potential courses.

Job Opportunities

AGA Apprenticeship & Traineeship Vacancies 13th July 2026.pdf

Events

The following events are not Bairnsdale Secondary College events.

A Dive Into Dolphin Science Workshop for Secondary Students – 25th July

Have you ever wondered how scientists tell dolphins apart or track them in the wild? Now’s your chance to dive into the science behind dolphin research! In this engaging, hands-on one-hour workshop designed for secondary students, you’ll discover how scientists use fin identification to recognise individual dolphins and apply mark-recapture techniques to estimate populations and monitor these incredible marine mammals. Led by a local dolphin scientist, this session is ideal for secondary students who love science, marine biology, and cetaceans (whales and dolphins). It’s also an excellent introduction to the Cetacean Sisters program, designed for secondary school girls who are interested in learning more about science through whales and dolphin research. During the workshop, you’ll:

learn how scientists track and study dolphins,
explore real research techniques, and
Get inspired by a career in science or marine research

A Dive into Dolphin Science — 25th July 2026

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, these information sessions help you make an informed decision around your study and career options.

Information Technology & Security - 27th July & 31st August
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Certificate III in Information Technology

Certificate III in Information Technology Info Session 701Mp00000utLusIAE - July

Certificate III in Information Technology Info Session 701Mp00000utAudIAE - August

Screen & Media - 30th July
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 701Mp00000rLAlvIAG

Music & Sound - 30th July
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Advanced Diploma of Music - Performance
- Certificate IV in Music - Sound Production
- Diploma of Music

Music and Sound Info Session 701Mp00000rLGmPIAW

Business Management & Accounting - 30th July
Find out more about a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping.

Accounting and Bookkeeping Info Session 701Mp00000utXxfIAE

Auslan - 30th July
Find out more about the following course(s):
- Diploma of Auslan
- Certificate II in Auslan
- Certificate III in Auslan
- Certificate IV in Auslan

Auslan Info Session 701Mp00000qEchIIAS

Hospitality Courses Information Session, Preston - 10th August

Find out more about the following course(s):

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery - Non-apprenticeship
Certificate III in Hospitality
Certificate III in Patisserie
Certificate IV in Hospitality
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management
Diploma of Hospitality Management

Hospitality Info Session 701Oa00000t9v7TIAQ

Australian Federal Police | Becoming a Protective Service Officer with the AFP - Online Information Session - 28th July

Gain insights into the role of a protective service officer (PSO), hear first-hand experiences, and discover what it means to do legendary work in the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

Online Information Session Registration Form - 28th July

The Push | Careers Expo, Melbourne - 28th July

The Music Careers Expo is for young people aged 15–25 who are curious about working in music — whether that’s performing, producing, working behind the scenes or exploring other roles across the industry. You’ll hear from people working across the industry (artists, managers, producers, engineers) and have the chance to sit down one-on-one with professionals and educators for advice on your next steps. If you love Australian music and want to work in it, this is where you start! Parents, teachers and friends are also welcome to attend.

The Push Music Careers Expo

James Cook University | QTAC Information Webinar

Keep up to date with the latest information on the QTAC application process at the upcoming QTAC Information Webinar.

In this session, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of:

How ATARs and other Year 12 qualifications are assessed
Key QTAC application steps including how to select and order preferences
Entry requirements and pathway options
Adjustment factors and special admissions schemes like the Educational Access Scheme
Key dates, deadlines, and how to respond to offers

This session is ideal for school staff, students and families. A live Q&A will follow the presentation – a great opportunity to get your questions answered.

If you’re unable to attend live, please register and they’ll send you a link to the recording the following day.

QTAC Information Webinar

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.

ATAR, Bonus Points, & Uni Entry Explained with ADHD - Webinar for Year 12 Students & Parents - 30th July

Join the webinar designed for Yr 12 students and parents, navigating university admissions with ADHD, which can impact these processes. They’ll cover:

The ATAR - explained
What the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) is and who qualifies
How to apply for EAS and what you will need
Other bonus points (adjustment factors) on offer
Important dates and deadlines
University preference strategies that work
Early entry options and their benefits

ATAR, Bonus Points, & Uni Entry Explained with ADHD

2027 Sport & Business Programs

SEDA have now launched their Sport & Business Programs for 2027. In Victoria, these include offerings with the Collingwood Magpies, Melbourne United, Melbourne Victory and Netball Victoria.

Program	Links	Open Nights/Information Sessions
Collingwood Magpies	Event registration	Monday, 3rd August
Melbourne United	Event registration	Wednesday, 19th August (Hoop City) Monday, 24th August (MSAC)
Melbourne Victory	Event registration	Monday, 31st August
Netball Victoria	Event registration	Thursday, 3rd September

SEDA_Program Guide_digital_FA.pdf

2026-SBP-Netball Victoria-Digital.pdf

2026-SBP-Melbourne Victory-Flyer-Digital.pdf

2026-SBP-Melbourne United-Flyer-Digital.pdf

2026-Collingwood Magpies-Flyer-Digital.pdf

University of Melbourne | Applying to the University of Melbourne Through VTAC, Online Session for Future Students - 5th August

Planning on applying to the University of Melbourne, but a little unsure of the steps involved through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)? Join in to discover everything you need to know about VTAC and answer all your application questions. You’ll be guided through the process by the Future Students team and a VTAC representative, so you can apply for your preferred Melbourne undergraduate course in 2026 with confidence.

Applying through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)

Careers with Stem | STEM + X: Careers in Agriculture – Webinar for Students, Teachers & Parents – 5th August

Careers in agriculture go far beyond the farm, spanning areas like biotechnology, environmental management, data science, policy, agribusiness, and global development. People with skills in these fields are now in high demand to help grow sustainable, nutritious and resilient food systems that improve the health of communities and the environment. Join in for a free STEM + X career webinar, supported by The University of Queensland to hear from agriculture science students, graduates and lecturers who making an impact.

Webinar Registration – Zoom

Gippsland East Study Hub | Uni Your Way Pop-Up Open Day – 5th August

The Gordon TAFE | Info Nights

Info Nights are the perfect opportunity to explore life at The Gordon. You’ll get to tour the campuses, meet the teachers, and find out more about the courses and career pathways that interest you. With presentations, classroom sessions in your chosen study areas, and the chance to ask questions, Info Nights help you make informed decisions about your future. Plus, if you’re ready to take the next step, their friendly team can help you apply on the spot!

Geelong City - 10th & 11th August

East Geelong - 12th Augus

Werribee - 13th August

Info Nights

La Trobe University | Meet an Enviro Scientist Panel, for Year 7-12 Students - 18th August

Students will hear from La Trobe University environmental scientists and industry professionals from a diverse range of areas including ecology, freshwater and wetland management, restoration climate change adaptation, resource management, and conservation genetics. They will share their expertise, research and pathway to their STEM career. Panellists for this event will be:

Nadia Zerman: Soil microbiologist
Hayley Sime: Botanist
Dr Kerry Fanson: Conservation endocrinologist
Aidan Fitt: Entomologist

After an interactive Q&A panel discussion, participants will have the option to network with the panelists to build valuable connections with both student researchers and established academics. This event is part of the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series, providing free extension opportunities for high-ability students in Victorian Government Schools. Funded by the Department of Education's Student Excellence Program.

Meet an Enviro Scientist Panel (Bundoora Campus), Events, La Trobe University

Central Queensland University (CQU) | Education Open Day Webinar - 24th August

With courses available across early childhood, primary and secondary teaching, CQU's friendly education academics will explain what it’s really like to study at CQU. You’ll learn about their strong local networks, the support services that help you succeed, and how CQU prepares you for a rewarding career in the classroom.

Education Open Day Webinar - CQUniversity

Australian Catholic University (ACU) | Year 12 VCE Revision Webinars - 24th-27th August

Worried about your Year 12 exams? You're not alone. Join ACU's free online webinars from 24 - 27 August 2026. They are live, expert-led sessions designed to help you walk into your exams feeling prepared. Can't attend live? Register anyway – recordings are available to registered attendees for one week after each webinar.

Year 12 VCE Revision Webinars 2026

Whitehouse Institute of Design

Fashion Illustration Workshop, Melbourne - 19th September

In this 1-day workshop, you will gain an understanding of how to complete Fashion Illustrations. At the end of this workshop, you will have covered illustration content ready for an application to study a creative degree and receive a certificate of completion. The workshop focuses on the following areas of skill development:

Fashion illustration techniques and methods
Application of pencils, professional markers, and felt-tip pens for professional rendering
Fabric texture and surface rendering
Exploring an individual design aesthetic.

This workshop is for aspiring designers as a starting point for those wishing to develop their illustration skills.

Fashion Illustration Workshop - Melbourne Campus - 19th September

Studio Lighting and Fashion Photography Workshop, Melbourne - 21st September

This is a hands-on 1-day workshop designed for aspiring photographers eager to learn the fundamentals of camera settings, studio lighting, and fashion photography. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your technical foundation, this workshop will guide you through the essentials—from mastering manual mode to setting up professional lighting and capturing dynamic fashion portraits. Perfect for beginners looking to expand into the world of studio and fashion photography.

Basics of Studio Lighting and Fashion Photography - Melbourne Campus - 21st September

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.

FDA Program Brochure.pdf

2026 & 2027 dates:

Melbourne	24 - 27 September
Sydney	1 - 4 October
Sydney	8 - 11 October
Brisbane	17 - 20 December
Melbourne	14 - 17 January 2027
Sydney	21-24 January 2027
Perth	21 - 24 January 2027
Melbourne	8 - 11 April 2027
Brisbane	1 - 4 July 2027
Brisbane	23 - 26 September 2027

NIE Careers | Future Doctors Australia

Camp SEEK 2026 for Year 9-10 Girls & Non-Binary Students – 21st-24th September

Camp SEEK is a four-day immersive daily learning program for Year 9 and 10 girls and non-binary students. Spend four action-packed days at SEEK HQ in Melbourne learning about careers in technology, developing coding, design and product practical skills, exploring real-world problem solving and pitching with your fellow Camp SEEKers. The technology industry is not as diverse as it could be. There is a shortage of women and non-binary talent in STEM school subjects, at the tertiary level and in the workforce. As a leading technology company, we champion diversity within our industry and our own talent pipeline, and Camp SEEK is one of our favourite, and most fun, programs. It is designed to increase the number of girls and non-binary students who choose to pursue a career in technology. Participants must be currently enrolled as a high school student in Year 9 or 10 in Australia and have not completed the Camp SEEK program previously.

Camp SEEK 2026 | SEEK

Australian Institute of Music (AIM) | Theatre Audition Workshop, Melbourne – 29th-30th September

If musical theatre is your passion, this is where your industry journey begins. AIM’s Music Theatre Holiday Workshop is an immersive two-day experience designed for high school students who are serious about pursuing a career in musical theatre. Working directly with the industry professionals who teach our Bachelor of Music Theatre, you’ll build the skills, refine your repertoire, and receive the kind of hands-on feedback that prepares you to walk into your Bachelor of Music Theatre audition with confidence.

Melbourne Music Theatre Audition Workshop – Australian Institute of Music

Swinburne University | Innovation in Action for Year 10-12 Students - 30th September

The Swinburne Innovation in Action school holiday program is a 1-day program based at the Hawthorn campus where Year 10 - 12 students are given the knowledge and tools they need to come up with brilliant new ideas to solve real-world problems. In this free program, you will:

Identify and analyse a real-world problem
Design possible solutions to your chosen problem
Create a rapid prototype for your solution
Pitch and evaluate your prototype with your peers

Swinburne is delivering two more Innovation in Action holiday programs in 2026.

Each program runs from 9.30am–3.30pm on:

Wednesday, 30 September 2026

Swinburne Innovation in Action | Swinburne

School of Audio Engineering (SAE) | Create for a Day - 3rd October

This October school holidays, SAE University College Melbourne is opening its doors for Create for a Day: a one-day, hands-on experience where you’ll step into the studio, lab or production space and start creating. Choose from:

Animation
Audio
Computer Science
Film
Games
Songwriting & Electronic Music Production
VFX

Create for a Day lets you skip the textbooks and jump straight into building, recording, designing, coding or filming, all guided by lecturers who work in the industry. By the end of the day, you’ll walk away with your own finished project and a certificate of participation, plus a clearer idea of what studying at SAE is really like and where your skills could take you in the future. Open to students in Years 10-12 and young creatives up to age 21.

SAE’s Create for a Day – SAE University College

Open Days

A university open day isn’t just a tour — it’s your chance to imagine the life you want to build. Meet the people who’ll challenge you, support you, and help you grow. Explore the spaces where ideas turn into careers. Ask questions, test the vibe, and see what feels right. Open days are your backstage pass to uni life. Wander through labs, studios, and lecture halls. Try hands‑on activities, grab some freebies, meet new people and feel the energy. It’s fun, it’s useful, and it might just spark the idea that shapes your future.

Swinburne University of Technology - 26th July

Open Day is your chance to see what’s possible at Swinburne and find where you fit in.

Experience Swinburne up-close through hundreds of activations across campus
Get the scoop on brand new courses that combine your passion with a purpose
Explore projects from their Work Integrated Learning students and learn about their industry experience guarantee
Catch talks from Swinburne researchers that will expand your knowledge – and horizons

Open Day

Monash

Peninsula - 1st August

Caulfield - 1st August

Clayton - 2nd August

If you’re considering studying at uni, going to the Monash Open Day is one of the best decisions you can make. You’ll be able to discover key course information, explore campuses, meet current students and staff, and get a taste of Monash life, firsthand. Whether you want to get a feel for what you’ll be studying, make sure you're on the right track, or simply picture yourself in one of the learning spaces, here’s why you should join Monash at Open Day:

Chat with current students
Hear from inspiring academics
Get all your questions answered in the one place
Get involved
Enjoy the vibe

Home - Open Day

University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSc)

2nd August - Sunshine Coast

Join UniSc on campus for the biggest event of the year and explore your future. Open Day is more than talking and listening – it’s a chance to get involved!

Learn about entry pathways, how to apply and support services in the 'Getting into uni' info session. Then, head to the study area sessions to explore the degrees you’re interested in.

When you register, you’ll automatically go into the draw to WIN an unforgettable Noosa whale watching experience for two people!

Open Day | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

Deakin University

Deakin are opening up their campuses again in August 2026! Experience first-hand why Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction and graduate employment. Go to Open Day to find out how studying at Deakin lets you gain practical experience, make industry connections and build career confidence – everything you need to land the job you want.

Warrnambool, Sunday 2 August, 9am–12.30pm

Geelong Waterfront, Sunday 16 August, 9am–3pm

Geelong Waurn Ponds, Sunday 16 August, 9am–3pm

Melbourne Burwood, Sunday 23 August, 9am–3pm

Open Day at Deakin

RMIT University

Bundoora - Sunday 2 August

Brunswick - Sunday 9 August

City - Sunday 9 August

Point Cook - Sunday 16 August

Bendigo - Sunday 23 August

RMIT Open Day is your chance to experience what it's like to be an RMIT student. Get to know your surroundings, explore the campus, meet your future teachers, ask questions and make friends. It's your opportunity to learn all the tips and tricks from current students and alumni.

RMIT Open Day - RMIT University

La Trobe University

Melbourne (Bundoora) | Sunday 2 August

Shepparton | Sunday 9 August

Mildura | Wednesday 12 August

Albury-Wodonga | Sunday 16 August

Bendigo | Sunday 23 August

Why attend Open Day at La Trobe?

Chat with current students, alumni and teachers to get first-hand advice about your dream course, or just about the best places to eat on campus.
Explore the campus by yourself or join a guided tour. See the world-class health facilities, leading IT and science labs, business trading room, accommodation and much more.
Discover your options for placements, internships and work-based learning, and get all your questions answered about your dream course.
Get a taste of what it's really like to be at uni. Join events and activities or kick back and enjoy the campus – Open Day is the place to see it all.

University Open Days Melbourne 2026 | La Trobe University

Charles Sturt University (CSU)

Port Macquarie - 2nd August

Wagga Wagga - 9th August

Albury-Wodonga - 16th August

Bathurst - 23rd August

Orange - 30th August

Discover what uni life is like! Whether you’re in high school, looking to upskill, want to change careers, or are a parent, teacher or carer – there’s something for everyone.

Jump on a campus tour – explore our facilities and accommodation.
Get detailed info about courses.
Chat to current students about Charles Sturt life.
Be inspired by our expert teaching staff.
Discover the social side of life at Charles Sturt.
Enjoy live entertainment, giveaways, competitions and free food!

Plus, you can explore our expo, info, and career and skills hubs. Chat to our friendly teams about our support services, early offer programs and how to boost your hiring potential.

Open Day 2026 - Study

Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT) - 9th August

Join MIT on campus to explore your study options, learn about their courses and discover what it's like to study at MIT.

MIT Open day | Melbourne Institute of Technology

Longerenong College – 9th August

Federation University

Gippsland - 9th August

Berwick - 16th August

Ballarat - 23rd August

Experience Open Day at Federation University. From campus tours to live music and hands-on experiences, there’s something for everyone.

Why go to Open Day?

Tour the campus with current students
Meet academics, students and industry partners
Enjoy food stalls, live music, games and giveaways
Attend info sessions with expert course advice

Open Day | Federation University | Federation University

Australian Catholic University

Melbourne - Sunday 9th August

Ballarat - 23rd August

Open Day gives you the opportunity to ask teaching staff any questions you might have about your dream course, the application process, pathway options, entry schemes and more.

Chat to current students and discover the facilities your new campus has to offer. And sit in on information sessions from each of the faculties to find out more about the courses you’re interested in.

Open Day – Student life at ACU

Chisholm Institute | Info Day for Future Students

Frankston - 12th August

Dandenong - 9th September

Whether you want to start a new career, upskill in your current one or are still exploring your options, Info Day is your chance to experience Chisholm up close. Chat with teachers, tour the campuses, and find out how they can support your study journey – for the better.

Info days | Chisholm TAFE

Bendigo TAFE | Open Night

Bendigo City Campus - 13th August

Charleston Road Campus - 13th August

Bendigo TAFE is hosting an Open Night at their Bendigo City and Charleston Road campuses, giving you the chance to explore their courses, meet passionate teachers and tour the state-of-the-art facilities. Whether you're considering a career in health, automotive, animal studies, trades or beauty – you're welcome to attend as many sessions as you like.

Open Night

Eastern College | Open Night - 13th August

Events - Eastern College Australia

Australian College of Applied Professions (ACAP) - 15th August

Ready to turn your passion into a purpose-driven career? ACAP Open Day is your opportunity to discover how their practical, people-focused courses can help you make a real difference – in your community and your life. Join in on campus this August and experience what makes ACAP different. Whether you’re considering counselling, psychology, social work, criminology, law or business, you’ll get a firsthand look at the learning, support, and outcomes that set students up for success. From expert-led masterclasses and career panels to course advice and campus tours, Open Day is designed to give you the insight and inspiration to take the next step.

Open Day Melbourne - ACAP

School of Audio Engineering (SAE) - 15th August

Whether you're still exploring your study options or you’re ready to apply, SAE Open Day is the perfect place to get inspired, get informed, and get hands-on with your creative future. Join in on campus this August to tour their studios, meet your future mentors, and experience what it’s like to study at SAE – the University College built for creators and tech innovators. Explore your study and career pathways across animation, audio, design, film, games, music, VFX and more. Connect with current students, industry-experienced lecturers, and alumni who’ve turned their ideas into careers.

Open Day at SAE Melbourne - SAE University College - Register now

ADFA - 15th August

ADFA Open Day is run each year in August. Join online or in person to:

Explore world-class UNSW degrees, with information sessions about Business, Arts, Science, Engineering, Computing and Cyber Security.
Learn about military training, studying and life on campus from current ADFA Trainee Officers.
Watch a variety of exciting displays, take a virtual tour, and much more

Australian Defence Force Academy - ADF Careers

The University of Melbourne - 16 August

From robots and renewables to Renaissance art, Open Day is a chance to experience what it's really like to study, live and thrive at Melbourne. They look forward to welcoming you and your family to their campuses. What's on at Open Day:

Chat to academics, Future Student teams and current students to learn more about your study options and the exciting careers they could lead to
Get a feel for campus life by exploring the spaces you'll be learning in, including our labs, libraries, galleries and other specialist facilities
Learn how the curriculum works, including how you can combine your passions and strengths to set yourself apart for whichever career you choose
Explore the range of student accommodation facilities and the social activities and study support on offer

Open Day at the University of Melbourne

Victoria University

Footscray Park - Sunday 16 August

VU City Tower - Sunday 30 August

Open Day is your chance to explore everything unis like VU have to offer – in person. You can tour the campuses, explore the state-of-the-art facilities, chat with students and teachers, get course advice, attend hands-on workshops and demos, and experience what student life could look like for you! It’s a really valuable experience to getting the inside scoop on campus and life at uni or TAFE in general before you even finish school. It also gives you a great opportunity to apply on the spot for the Early Entry program, or even apply for a course right there and then!

Victoria University | VU Open Day - August 2026

Australian Institute of Music (AIM) – 22nd August

Join in at the Australian Institute of Music’s Melbourne August Open Day and get a real feel for what it’s like to study in one of the world’s most exciting music cities. Wander through their recording studios and performance spaces, chat with inspiring mentors and industry pros, and meet students and alumni who are already making waves in the industry, both at home and abroad. You’ll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and interactive sessions that showcase the energy and creativity that connects the campus community. Plus, get insider tips on courses, career options, and how to start carving your path in the industry. Whether you’re exploring what’s next or ready to turn your passion into your profession, the Melbourne Open Day is here to help you uncover your creative path.

Melbourne Open Day 2026 – 16 May – Australian Institute of Music

Central Queensland University (CQU) – Open Day Webinar – 24th August

With courses available across early childhood, primary and secondary teaching, CQU’s friendly education academics will explain what it’s really like to study at CQU. You’ll learn about their strong local networks, the support services that help you succeed, and how CQU prepares you for a rewarding career in the classroom.

Education Open Day Webinar – CQUniversity

Collarts, Melbourne - 29th August

At Collarts, their Open Day is all about making this process simple and hands-on. Information sessions, workshops and the chance to chat with students, teachers and leaders are an important part of learning more about what sets them apart from the rest. They invite you to go and experience life at Collarts: from their passion for creativity, close community, industry-level facilities, expert faculty, and more. From guided tours to live demonstrations, here are some of the activities you can catch at the next Collarts Open Day:

Guided tours: Experience the campuses firsthand with guided tours led by enthusiastic Student Ambassadors.
Info hubs: info hubs provide convenient drop-in spaces where you can have direct conversations with Program Leaders, Academics, and students about your desired course.
Demonstrations: Demonstrations are your chance to see the course content come to life. They allow you to be actively involved in projects and see cutting-edge equipment in action, so you can get a firsthand preview of what studying at Collarts is really like.
Displays: campus displays are positioned throughout different areas of the campuses, offering a showcase of the community’s achievements and journeys.

If you have specific accessibility needs or require additional assistance, please contact Collarts in advance, and they will do their best to assist you.

Collarts Open Day | Explore Creative Arts Courses in Melbourne and Sydney

LaSalle College International (LCI) Melbourne - 29th August

LCI are excited to welcome you to their Melbourne 2026 Open Day!

Join them at their Collingwood campus for a day of creativity, connection, and discovery. Whether you're set on a career in the creative industries or still exploring your options, this is your chance to experience life at LCI Melbourne.

Experience Every Discipline

Step inside their studios, chat with mentors, meet current students, and get hands-on in activities across:

Fashion & Costume Design
Graphic & Digital Design
Interior Design
Visual Arts
Business & Innovation

Open Day 2026 - Saturday, August 29, 2026 - LCI Melbourne

Torrens University

Flinders Street Campus - 29th August

Go and meet Torrens academics and Future Student Advisors, who will be able to answer all your questions about early entry, scholarships, entry pathways and their world-class facilities. Explore the campus and see firsthand how exciting studying in Melbourne can be.

Talk to Torrens academics and Future Student Advisors about choosing courses, scholarships and the application process.
Embark on a guided tour of the campus facilities and get a feel of their recreational spaces, teaching spaces and more.
Meet current students and find out what their experiences studying at Torrens University is like.

Open Day in Melbourne | Torrens University

Virtual Open Day - 1st-2nd September

Ready for the next step on your career journey? Join Torrens online as their academics talk you through the courses on offer and how you can get the most out of studying with them. Learn about scholarships, study pathways, their industry partnerships with global brands and what sets them apart from other universities.

Business, Education, Health, Hospitality, Technology and Higher Degrees by Research: Tuesday 1 September - 6pm - 7pm (AEST)
Design: Wednesday 2 September - 6pm - 7pm (AEST)

Virtual Open Day 2026 | Torrens University

University of New South Wales (UNSW) - 5th September

Join UNSW on Saturday, 5 September at their Kensington and Paddington campuses for UNSW Open Day 2026. Students can explore degrees, attend information sessions, experience hands-on activities, connect with academics and current students.

Whether students are just beginning to explore their options or finalising their preferences, Open Day is the perfect opportunity to gain first-hand insight into studying at UNSW.

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-Guide-2026-School-Licensed-Edition.pdf

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.

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!

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) - Work Experience 2027 (ages 15+)

The National Gallery of Victoria offers work experience placements for secondary school students. Placements are based with the NGV Learn Team and where possible with other Departments.

Applications for 2027 Work Experience placements are now open and will close 5pm, 23 October 2026. All applicants will be notified by mid-November.

The NGV offers work experience during the following week in 2027: Monday 21 – Friday 25 June 2027.

Work Experience | NGV

Zoos Victoria - Work Experience 2027 (ages 15+)

Zoos Victoria's Secondary School Work Experience is for students interested in animal care, wildlife and conservation.

Places are available at Kyabram Fauna Park, Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Students leave with a clearer understanding of what working in a zoo really involves and whether it’s something they want to pursue in the future.

A five-day, full-time Work Experience program (in all weather) is curated for the student, giving them an opportunity to meet a range of people and participate in a range of tasks across the zoo. Some physical activities may be involved, with assessments and adjustments made to ensure the student can participate safely.

School Careers Coordinators can only endorse one student per school. Please note - Kyabram Fauna Park is the only property that accepts multiple students per school (per term). More information on the application process will be posted closer to the time.

Application timelines

Applications open on Monday 3 August 2026
Applications close on Friday 11 September 2026 - As each school can only submit one application for this program, applications must be submitted to Careers by Friday 4th September, to give us time to go through the applications.
Work experience placements commence from Term 1-4 2027

Secondary school work experience at the zoo

Parliament of Victoria Work Experience (ages 15+)

Whether you’re interested in politics, planting trees, law-making or baking, your work experience placement at the Parliament of Victoria will be an experience you’ll remember. This is a unique opportunity to undertake a week-long placement in either the Parliamentary Sitting or Parliamentary Services program. Placements run for 5 days: Monday-Friday, from 9am until 5pm each day.

Parliamentary Sitting placements provide the opportunity to see the processes of the Parliament of Victoria up close. Students will go behind the scenes with the staff who directly support Parliament sittings, to get a deeper understanding of our democratic processes. Expressions of interest for terms 1 and 2, 2027 will open in early September.

Parliamentary Services placements offer a variety of opportunities that can be matched with a broad range of student interests and career goals. Students will have the option to work with staff in one of the many professional service areas that support the day-to-day business of Parliament. The date for expressions of interest for 2027 to open is yet to be confirmed.

Work experience at Parliament House - Parliament of Victoria

Parliament of Victoria work-experience-eoi-how-to-guide.pdf

mycar Work Experience (year 10-12 students), Traralgon

mycar runs a Work Experience Program for high school students, so you can get a proper look at what an Apprentice Mechanic does before you commit to it. You’ll spend time across the workshop and the office, working through real tasks alongside the team rather than watching from the sidelines. The program is built to cover the key parts of the job, so by the end you’ve got a clear sense of what being a mechanic at mycar involves day to day. A qualified Technician supervises the whole time, which means you’re never thrown in the deep end or left wondering what you’re meant to be doing. The focus is on making sure you feel welcome, comfortable, and safe while you find your feet. If you’re weighing up a career in the trade, this is a good way to see it up close.

Interested? Email careers@mycar.com.au or call (02) 9680 6500.

mycar Work Experience.png

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