Find Work

​A paid job means an income, freedom and the chance to learn and do new things. Getting your first job is not always easy and you may have to apply for a number of jobs before you are successful.

It is important not to become disheartened with job hunting and to remember that it is a challenging process.

Career programs at your school will give you the practical skills you need to look for work, including:

  • applying for jobs
  • writing resumes
  • interview skills
  • presentation skills.

You can also gain an understanding of workplace learning while you are still at school through work experience and structured workplace learning.

For more information, see:

There are many services and people who can help you find suitable work. While you are at school, you can speak to your careers adviser, Managed Individual Pathways (MIPs) coordinator and your year level and subject coordinators. When you finish school, Centrelink can give you information about the options that can help you find work, including income support and job seeking assistance.

Skills needed

Today’s employers are looking for young people that are ready for work and who have employability skills. These are the skills people need to function in a variety of life and work settings. They are not technical skills, but are skills that allow people to do their jobs well. They include:

  • communication skills
  • teamwork skills
  • problem solving skills
  • taking initiative and being enterprising
  • planning and organisation skills
  • self-management skills, including time management skills
  • ability to learn and understand quickly
  • ability to use and adapt to new technology.

Future job markets

When you are planning your career consider which skills will be in demand in the future. Currently there are shortages in jobs that require technical and trade skills such as electricians, bricklayers, carpenters, chefs and more. There are also shortages in nursing, accounting and health.

More information

For more information, see:

  • Centrelink – information about looking for employment, study and training opportunities and financial support
  •  Job Guide – includes descriptions of about 600 different jobs and the qualifications or training needed to do them. You can also work out which job suits you best, based on your interests and abilities
  • Job Outlook – information on future job prospects, average weekly earnings, skills needed for work tasks and typical work activities
  • myfuture – an online career information service that can help you find out about career options and plan for your future
  • Youth Central – information on finding work, applying for jobs, starting a business and employment rights and responsibilities.