Pathways Ext: Career Tools
Vermont Secondary College
Career Tools Newsletter: What Will Work Look Like in 2035?
The world of work is changing fast! Chances are that your future job doesn't even exist yet.
From designing virtual worlds to solving climate problems or guiding how we use AI, new careers are emerging in every industry. Check out some of the most exciting "jobs of the future" below and see which ones might be your perfect fit!
AI Ethicist - For deep thinkers who enjoy big questions. You will: Make sure AI is used safely and fairly.
Sustainability Consultant - For eco-minded problem solvers. You will: Help businesses go green and reduce waste.
VR Experience Designer - For creative tech lovers and gamers. You will: Build virtual worlds for work, play, or learning.
Genetic Counsellor - For science lovers with strong people skills. You will: Help people understand their genetic health risks.
Career Spotlight - Youth Worker
You don’t need to have all the answers to be a Youth Worker.
What matters most is a caring attitude, being a good listener, and genuinely wanting to support young people through life’s challenges.
What is a Youth Worker?
A Youth Worker supports young people facing challenges like mental health issues, family problems, or trouble at school. They help teens build skills, set goals, and connect with community resources. Youth Workers might run programs, provide one-on-one support, or advocate for young people in schools or social services. The goal of a Youth Worker is to empower youth to make positive choices and thrive within their lives.
What skills and strengths are needed?
Strong communication and empathy are essential. Youth Workers need to listen carefully and build trust with young people. Problem-solving and patience help when working through complex issues. Good teamwork and understanding of social issues are important, along with being organised and adaptable. Cultural awareness is crucial, and some roles also require basic counselling skills.
What are the pathways?
You can start by completing a Certificate IV in Youth Work or Community Services. Many Youth Workers also go on to study diplomas or degrees in social work, community services or youth work. Volunteering with youth groups, mentoring or working in community centres is a great way to gain experience. Building connections through placements or internships helps open doors into this rewarding career.
2025 University Open Days
2025 Uni Open Days have arrived!
It’s time to visit campuses, ask plenty of questions and find out which uni feels right for you.
What Are Open Days?
Open Days are your chance to see what uni life is really like - walk around the campus, meet current students and staff, and find out if it feels like the right fit for you.
Plan Ahead: Know What You Want to Find OutBefore you go, have a quick look at the University Open Day schedule and select the talks, tours, or sessions you’re keen on. Think about what matters most to you, such as courses, accommodation, clubs, support services, or career advice. Write down a few questions so you don’t forget them on the day.
Explore the Campus and Facilities
Once you’re there, take time to wander around. Check out lecture halls, libraries, and student hangout spots to see where you’d spend most of your time. If you’re planning to move away from home, make sure you explore the accommodation options too.
Talk to Students and Staff
Ask current students what they like (and don’t like) about the uni and their course. Chat with academic staff about course content, assessment, and career pathways. You’ll get honest answers and helpful tips that sometimes brochures can’t always give.
Follow Up and Reflect
After the open day, review your notes and compare universities (if you visit more than one). Discuss what you learned with family, teachers, or careers advisors. Use the info to narrow down your choices and prepare better applications.
Early Entry at the University of New England
Why every student should consider early entry at the University of New England
Help students secure a place at university The University of New England (UNE)’s Early Entry offer scheme allows students to secure a place at an Australian university before the release of their ATAR.
Why choose early entry at UNE?
Early entry is a way to remove the stress of HSC final examinations and the university application process, while still keeping the door open for alternative methods of entry and study.
UNE Early Entry guarantees an offer to students - if not for one of their first three preferences, then for an alternative course that can provide an avenue for transfer later on.
If students choose to apply for UNE through their early entry program, it does not prevent them
from making another application through UAC or QTAC if desired.
For most courses, students will have the option to accept the offer and defer for up to two years
(with the exclusion of the Bachelor of Nursing).
Who can apply for UNE through Early Entry?
Early entry is available for most degrees at UNE,
for:
Current Year 12 students
Full time students preparing to sit the full
NSW HSC in TAFE colleges in NSW and the ACT
Full time TAFE Tertiary Preparation Certificate students
How can students apply for early entry?
To apply for early entry at UNE, students will need to select three courses from the Early Entry course list at https://www.une.edu.au/study/study-on-campus/early-entry.
They will also need a personal email address and relevant supporting documents in an
electronic format, ready for upload.
Once students submit their applications, their schools will be contacted to approve and submit the application to UNE on their behalf.
When will students receive their offer?
Students who have their application in by round 2 (closing on the 12th of September) will
receive an offer in November, before their ATAR is released.
University Accommodation: Early offers from UNE can now include the option to simultaneously secure a spot in one
of their residential colleges.
UNE's Armidale campus boasts six distinct residential colleges, each offering a unique
community experience. This initiative aims to streamline the transition to university life,
alleviating the common stress of finding accommodation in a new city.
Students can learn more about UNE at:
https://www.une.edu.au/study/study-on-campus/early-entry
Defence Industry Virtual Work Experiences
New: Career Tools adds five new Virtual Work Experiences for Defence Industry careers across trades, vocational careers, STEM and more!
These Virtual Work Experiences have been created in collaboration with top defence industry
organisations to give students a behind-the-scenes look at STEM, vocational and support roles
in this in-demand sector.
Roles include:
Mechanical Engineer
Systems Engineer
Fabricator
Defence Project Manager
Machinist
Each VWE includes an overview of the role and the key qualities that could align users to specific roles, pathways to enter the role, interactive activities, and resources to help users take the next step.
What is the defence industry?
The defence industry is the cluster of private and public organisations that provide goods and
services to the Australian Defence Force.
Defence industry sub-categories include:
Operations, including logistics and procurement
Trades Operators, and Engineers specialising in nuclear, mechanical, electronics, fabrication, combat systems and safety.
Digital and ICT services including cybersecurity, machine learning and automation.
Support services such as finance, project management and business analysis
Why is the defence industry unique?
Australia’s recent defence commitments represent multi-billion dollar opportunities for
the defence industry, with thousands of new roles expected to be created over the next
decade.
Due to this high demand, future defence industry workers will have the opportunity to
work for some of the largest defence companies in the world, gain highly sought-
after skills and qualifications in critical areas, work on cutting-edge projects, and contribute
to Australia’s national interests.
How to get started
Students can access the VWE programs through the Academies page in their Career Tools Student Dashboard.
New Engineering Study Guide
Do you often think, ‘There must be a better way’? Are you curious about how things work, or want a career that makes a difference in people’s lives? Engineering might be your calling - and we’ve made a guide to help you plot your career journey.
Engineers combine their specialised skills in science, technology, and design to invent, make, build and create the machines, structures, engines and systems humankind relies upon.
There are plenty of challenges ahead for humans in the future, and as our needs for technology become greater and more complex, we need plenty of talented and motivated engineers to take the charge.
Whether designing the future of energy, or harnessing cutting-edge tech, engineers are essential to shaping a better tomorrow.
This guide, created in partnership with Engineers Australia, is here to help you explore the skills, pathways and opportunities in engineering careers, supporting you to find a career and area of expertise you’re truly passionate about.
This study guide covers the following topics: What is Engineering?
Learn how engineers shape our world
Who Makes for a Great Engineer?
Explore the skills and strengths of great engineers
Life as an Engineer
Discover the diverse opportunities a career in engineering offers
Pathways to Engineering
Understand what it takes to become an engineer
Areas of Engineering
Dive into engineering disciplines and their specialisations, including:
Biomedical
Chemical
Civil
Electrical
Environmental
Mechanical
Software
Systems
How to Get Started
Immerse yourself in the world of engineering.
The Future of Engineering
Look to the trends and technologies of the future.
Equal Pay Day
Same work, same skills… but not always the same pay. Equal Pay Day is a reminder that the gender pay gap still exists and it’s up to all of us to demand change.
What Is Equal Pay Day?
Australia’s Equal Pay Day falls on August 19, 2025. It marks how much longer women would need to work - about 50 extra days into the new financial year, to learn the same average pay that men earned in the previous year. It’s a way of showing that the gender pay gap is still a
real issue.
Why Does it Matter?
Understanding the gender pay gap is crucial as you plan your future career. The gap isn't just about equal pay for the same job, which has been a legal requirement since 1969 - but also about the overall earnings disparity across different industries and roles.
By learning about the gender pay gap now, you can make informed choices about your career path and be part of the generation working to close the gap for good.
Work Out Your Equal Pay Day
The Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA has a handy Equal Pay Day Calculator you can use to see how this issue plays out in real workplaces. Just plug in a company’s gender pay gap data, and it will show you how many extra days women (or sometimes men) would need to work to earn the same pay. It’s a simple way to see the gap for yourself and start
conversations about fairness at work.
Take Action: Advocate for Change
Awareness is the first step toward change. Engage in conversations about pay equity, attend workshops, and support policies that aim to close the gender pay gap. By staying informed and proactive, you can contribute to creating a more equitable workforce for everyone.
NAIDOC Week Reflection
This year’s NAIDOC Week marked 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience.
NAIDOC Week Turns 50
This year marks 50 years of NAIDOC Week, celebrating the history, strength, and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” honoured past achievements and empowers young Indigenous voices to lead the future.
NAIDOC Youth Award Winner
At the National NAIDOC Awards ceremony, the Youth Award was won by Anika Gosling, a
proud Wadjuk Noongar woman and school psychologist. Anika supports Aboriginal youth’s social and emotional wellbeing, showing what it means to combine culture and caring in everyday life.
First Nations Voices in Space
One of the most exciting announcements during NAIDOC Week came from the Australian Space Agency. A group of First Nations leaders will play a huge role at IAC 2025 - the world’s biggest space conference! For the first time, there’ll be a session exploring how Indigenous knowledge about the stars and skies can guide the future of the global space industry.
It’s a big step in recognising the deep understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have had of astronomy for tens of thousands of years and making sure their voices help shape Australia’s future in space.
Future Impact
NAIDOC Week isn’t just about looking back - it’s about looking ahead. It’s a chance to reflect on how we can all listen, learn, and respect First Nations voices in everyday life, at school and in the future careers we choose. Whether you're interested in science, storytelling, art, health, or technology, understanding and valuing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture will help build a better future for everyone.
National Skills Week
Thinking about life after school?
National Skills Week is the perfect time to explore training pathways you might not have considered before.
#NationalSkillsWeek
What Is National Skills Week?
National Skills Week (25–31 August 2025) celebrates the power of vocational education and training (VET) and the wide range of careers that start with practical, hands-on skills. It’s all
about busting myths and showing how jobs in trades, tech, health, creative fields, and services are changing - and why skilled people are needed now more than ever.
Why Does It Matter for You?
You might be surprised at just how many future-focused careers begin with a VET pathway - think cyber security, aged care, green energy, or 3D printing. Whether you’re planning uni,
TAFE, an apprenticeship or just figuring it out, learning skills that match real jobs is a smart move.
This Year’s Theme
The theme for National Skills Week 2025 is “Explore ALL the Options”. This theme
encourages students to consider the diverse range of career pathways available through Vocational Education and Training (VET), including apprenticeships, traineeships, and emerging industries. It aims to inspire individuals to look beyond traditional routes and discover opportunities that align with their interests and strengths.
Get Involved!
Many schools host skills tasters, guest speakers, or hands-on workshops during National Skills Week. It’s the perfect time to try something different - build a mini project, test a trade, explore creative tech, or chat to someone working in a field you’ve never considered. Keep an eye out for local TAFE events, employer visits, or virtual industry tours!
Enterprise Kickstarter Challenge
What Is It?
The Kickstarter Challenge is one of Australia’s leading competitions for young women with creative business ideas. Run by the Accelerator for Enterprising Women, it’s designed to support female-
led startups in areas like tech, sustainability, health, and social impact.
Who Can Enter the Kickstarter Challenge
2025?
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be 18 years or older and identify as female
Live in Australia and have a registered business with an Australian Business Number (ABN)
Own and lead the business Have started trading on or after January 1, 2023, or be in the process of starting
Have had total business revenue of under $75,000 in the last year (including grants)
Maintain a business bank account in the business name
Be prepared to pitch in person in Canberra if selected as a finalist.
Key Dates
Entries open: 1 July 2025
Entries close: 1 October 2025
Finalists announced: 31 October 2025
Pitch event in Canberra: 20 November 2025
What Can You Win?
Winners share in $60,000 of equity-free funding, plus receive mentoring, media
training, professional support, and the chance to pitch at a national showcase event
in Canberra. It’s not just about the money, it’s about learning, growing, and building connections that can launch your idea into the real world.
Why Get Involved?
Past winners say the experience changed everything. Just ask Hailey Brown, 2023
winner and founder of Vacayit, an accessible travel app:
“The funding, mentorship, and community helped propel our business to new heights.”
National Safe Work Month
Think safety’s just for tradies?
Nope - safety matters every day, in every job. National Safe Work Month is your reminder to
stay smart, stay safe, and look out for yourself and others.
What Is National Safe Work Month?
Every October, Australia observes National Safe Work Month, a time dedicated to promoting
health and safety in all workplaces. This year’s theme is “Safety: every job, every day”, emphasising that safety should be an integral part of every task, regardless of the industry or
role.
Why Safety Matters to All of Us
Whether you're considering a trade, healthcare, technology, or any other field, understanding
workplace safety is crucial. In 2023, there were 200 work-related fatalities and 139,000 serious
injury claims in Australia. Recognising the importance of safety now prepares you for a healthier, more secure career in the future.
How to Get Involved
Participate in Safe Tea events - informal gatherings like morning teas or class discussions focused on safety topics. Utilize resources from Safe Work Australia's Resource Hub to learn about hazard identification, risk management, and more. Engaging in these activities can deepen your understanding of workplace health and safety.
Take Action This October
Use this month to explore how safety practices apply to your areas of interest. Discuss safety protocols with mentors, attend workshops, or conduct research on safety standards in your desired field. Remember, prioritising safety is not just a workplace requirement - it's a commitment to your well-being and of others.
MoonHack Coding Project
Ready to Code Like a Space Pro?
Moonhack 2025 is here! Moonhack is a global coding event run by Code Club Australia, where kids from all over the world take part in fun, free coding challenges for a whole week. The projects are linked to what you learn at school and are designed to spark creativity and build real tech skills. Over the past nine years, more than 270,000 young people have taken part - making it one of the biggest coding events on the planet!
What Will You Learn?
Participants can choose from projects that align with the Australian curriculum, covering topics such as space exploration, sustainability, and technology.
Some example Moonhack 2025 Projects include:
In Deep Water - Guide a turtle through rising waters in this coding and climate change game.
Mission to Mars - Control a rover exploring Mars while learning programming basics.
Solar System Adventure - Make a space-themed story or game using Scratch or Python.
How to Get Involved
Getting started with Moonhack 2025 is easy:
Visit the Code Club Australia Website:
Select a Project: Choose from a range of coding projects that suit your interests and skill level.
Start Coding: Follow the step-by-step instructions provided for each project to create your own digital solution.
Share Your Work: Once completed, share your project with the Moonhack community and showcase your skills.
Go to codeclubau.org to explore available projects and resources.
Why Get Involved?
Participating in Moonhack 2025 is a fantastic opportunity to develop coding skills, engage
with a global community, and contribute to meaningful projects. Whether you're a beginner or have some coding experience, Moonhack offers a platform to learn, create, and innovate.
Social Media Laws
Got social media? If you’re under 16, things are about to change!
Australia’s new laws aim to keep young users safer online.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Are the New Social Media Laws?
Australia has introduced a groundbreaking law that bans children under 16 from using major
social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. This law, known as the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, is set to take effect in December 2025. The government aims to protect young people from online harms such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content and mental health issues related to social media use.
Wait, Why Is This Happening?
Research indicates that a significant number of Australian teenagers have encountered
harmful content online. A recent report found that two-thirds of Australian teens faced
online risks last year, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations. The new law
places the responsibility on social media companies to ensure users are above the age
of 15, aiming to create a safer online environment for young Australians.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you're under 16, you won't be able to create or maintain accounts on major social media platforms starting in December 2025. Platforms will implement age verification measures, such as facial recognition or ID scanning, to enforce this rule. While some platforms are lobbying for exemptions, the eSafety Commissioner has recommended including YouTube in the ban due to its widespread use among children and associated risks.
What Can You Do?
Stay Informed: Keep up with updates from the eSafety Commissioner and your school's digital safety programs.
Engage in Discussions: Talk to your peers and teachers about the implications of these laws and share your thoughts.
Explore Alternatives: Look into other platforms and activities that promote creativity and social interaction without the risks associated with traditional social media.
Challenges Open NOW!
Tournament of Minds (TOM) – National Finals
Date: September 2025
Location: Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra
Details: An academic competition focusing on collaborative problem-solving and critical thinking. Students work in teams to create a dramatic performance outlining their solution to an open-ended challenge in disciplines such as STEM, Language Literature, The Arts, and Social Science
Friends of the Australian National Botanic Gardens Photographic Competition
Date: Entries accepted until 28 August 2025
Eligibility: Open to high school students across Australia
Details: Open to Years 3–12 students to submit digital photos featuring native plants, wildlife, or scenery from the Gardens. Winners receive prizes and selected works are exhibited.
National History Challenge 2025
Date: Submission deadline 22 August 2025
Location: Nationwide (Australia)
Details: Free research-based competition encouraging students to explore historical topics through various presentation formats. Open to all Austral