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

This week, our Year 12 students participated in an important VTAC information session to prepare for their transition to tertiary study. During the session, students learnt how to navigate the VTAC system, create and activate their VTAC accounts, and explore the wide range of university and tertiary courses available. They also began researching courses and considering the options they may include on their preference lists, taking into account entry requirements, prerequisites, and future career pathways. This session provided students with a strong foundation for making informed decisions about their post-school plans. Students intending on submitting a VTAC application will meet with one of our staff members and be supported to complete their VTAC and any interstate applications to ensure a smooth transition into the next stage of their educational journey.

Job Opportunities

AusNet - Access Planning Coordinator Traineeship - Bairnsdale

Applications are now open for AusNet’s 2027 Distribution Trainee Program.

This three-year program gives participants the opportunity to start a career in Victoria’s energy industry, gain hands-on experience and complete an Advanced Diploma of ESI – Power Systems.

Key features of the traineeship include:

• A starting salary of approximately $80,000, including superannuation

• Eligible to people who have completed year 12 by the end of 2026, with strong performance in Maths and Science

• Earn a nationally recognised qualification in ESI – Power Systems

• Structured learning and the opportunity to work with and learn from industry experts

• The chance to work on Victoria’s electricity distribution network, helping keep the lights on and playing a key role in the energy transition

Access Planning Coordinator

This traineeship focuses on developing schedules and coordinate planned outages so essential work can be completed safely on the electricity network.

Locations for this traineeship: Bairnsdale, Lilydale and Wodonga

Students can learn more and apply via the website - http://ausnet.com.au/trainees.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Thursday 27 August 2026.

Events

The following events are not Bairnsdale Secondary College events.

Spark Engineering Camp

Are you a Year 9 - 11 student curious about where STEM could take you? Spark Engineering Camp 2027 is a fully subsidised, week-long program designed to help you explore real opportunities in engineering, technology, and beyond. Hosted at a University of Melbourne residential college during the summer holidays (11th-16th January), Spark is the perfect platform to ignite your potential.

Across the week, you’ll dive into hands-on workshops, visit leading university campuses, and step inside top engineering firms. Whether you’re planning a STEM career or simply exploring your options, Spark gives you the experiences, knowledge and industry connections to make confident decisions about your future.

Applications are open NOW until MID SEPTEMBER. Visit the website for further information - Spark Students — Youth Without Borders

Melbourne Polytechnic

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

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

Certificate III in Information Technology Info Session 701Mp00000utAudIAE

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 August

Werribee - 13th August

Info Nights

Bush Heritage Australia | Conservation Science Careers Webinar - 14th August

All interested secondary school students and university undergraduates are invited to join Bush Heritage Australia's online event on the eve of National Science Week 2026 - Conservation Science Careers. This virtual event offers the opportunity for students to connect with, learn from and be inspired by field professionals in conservation science. Individual students are welcome to register, along with course managers or subject teachers who would like to bring a class or group together to join the event.

Conservation Science Careers

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

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
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

Swinburne University

Engineering Info Session - 20th August

Join Swinburne on campus to get a deep dive on their Bachelor of Engineering. You’ll get a breakdown of their different majors, hear about scholarships, and visit some of the labs used by engineering students. They’ll also have current students sharing their experiences – including why they chose Swinburne for engineering.

This info session will include:

a 60-minute presentation on the Bachelor of Engineering, including a Q&A
networking with Swinburne staff, students and industry partners
a look at the Smart Structures and Digital Construction labs
complimentary light refreshments.

Engineering Info Session | Swinburne

Health Info Session - 27th August

Join Swinburne on campus for all the need-to-know details on studying health.

Get a breakdown of their different courses and majors, including health science, exercise and sports science, nutrition, and biomedical science. You’ll also learn about entry requirements and even hear expert career tips.

This info session will cover the following health courses:

Bachelor of Health Science
Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science
Bachelor of Nutrition
Bachelor of Biomedical Science

This info session will include:

a 60-minute presentation on Swinburne’s health courses, including a Q&A
networking with Swinburne staff, students
complimentary light refreshments.

Health Info Session | Swinburne

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

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

University of Sydney | Webinars

Study Medicine at Sydney - 26th August & 2nd September

Join the University of Sydney ahead of their Open Day to discover what it's like to study medicine there and learn how they prepare future doctors to make a meaningful impact in Australia and around the world. Through a live Q&A with specialist staff you’ll have your questions answered ahead of Open Day, so you can arrive informed, have meaningful conversations with the team, and make the most of your time exploring our learning facilities.

Webinar Registration - Zoom - 26th August

Webinar Registration - Zoom - 2nd September

Admissions to Medicine at Sydney - 26th August & 2nd September

Join the University of Sydney ahead of their Open Day to explore pathways to medicine.

Learn about admission requirements, application dates and timelines, and the assessment process. They’ll share details of the options available, whether you’re applying to commence your studies after high-school, or after completing a bachelor’s degree.

Through a live Q&A with their specialist staff, you’ll have your questions answered ahead of Open Day, so you can arrive informed, have meaningful conversations with the team, and make the most of your time exploring the learning facilities.

Webinar Registration - Zoom - 26th August

Webinar Registration - Zoom - 2nd September

Monash University | Information Evening, Webinar - 1st September

Choosing a university is a big decision.

Join the Monash webinar to have your questions answered and get the key details you need to plan your next step.

You'll discover what it's like to study at Monash, and hear about their courses, accommodation, scholarships, support services and campus life. You'll also gain insights about moving to Monash and settling in.

This session is ideal if you’re:

Considering moving from interstate, or
From regional or rural Victoria, or
Live in Melbourne and are keen to know more about Monash.

Monash Information Evening - Webinar - Discover Monash

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
Perth	15 - 18 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

RMIT | University Student for a Day Experience for Year 10-12 Students - 30th September

Want a taste of life after high school? Register your interest in being a Student for a Day at RMIT this September school holidays.

Aimed at high school students in Years 10, 11 and 12, this event will let you experience student life at RMIT and discover more about our courses.

RMIT Student for a Day - RMIT University

CDW Studios | Digital Art Holiday Workshop for Ages 14+, Melbourne & Online - 2nd October

CDW Studios are giving students an opportunity to attend a full day FREE holiday workshop with some of Australia’s best professional artists. Held in Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney during school holidays, participants get an introductory insight to the industry whilst learning techniques that they can apply straight away! Their free holiday workshops are perfect for beginners who wish to learn more as well as more experienced artists who want to push their work to the next level. These courses are a fantastic starting point for those who are curious about venturing into the competitive world of visual effects and entertainment design. Take this rare opportunity to learn from professional artists in a fun, engaging environment.

Holiday Workshops | CDW Studios

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.

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

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.

Scholarships

Applying for university scholarships is one of the smartest steps Year 12 students can take. Scholarships can provide financial support to help cover tuition fees, textbooks, technology, accommodation, travel, or other study expenses, making university more affordable. Many scholarships also recognise academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, sporting talent, creativity, or personal circumstances, so there are opportunities for a wide range of students—not just those with the highest ATAR.

Receiving a scholarship can also strengthen your resume, boost your confidence, and connect you with valuable mentoring, networking, and career development opportunities. Even if you are unsure whether you will be successful, it is always worth applying—you could receive support that makes your university experience more rewarding and helps you focus on achieving your goals.

While submitting a VTAC application does include applying for scholarships, VTAC does not cover all of them, so it is imperative that you research your preferred university’s scholarships and submit an application.

Michael Schmaedicke Scholarship – closing date 31 August

Youthrive Victoria 2027 Scholarships – closing date 14 August

Monash University, Achieving Potential Support Scholarships - closing date 9th October

Please see Open Days & Scholarships – Study Work Grow Education for further scholarship information.

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 Friday 20th October 2026
Applications close on Friday 4th December 2026 - As each school can only submit one application for this program, applications must be submitted to Careers by Friday 27th November, 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.

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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