A career counsellor can help you plan your study or career path. They can tell you about training and job options you might not have thought about.

What career counsellors do

Career counsellors know a lot about educational, work and training options. By considering your interests and experience, a good career counsellor will guide you to make decisions on what you might study and what work or training you can or should do.

When to visit a career counsellor

A career counsellor can provide advice when you’re:

  • looking for work experience
  • thinking about what subjects to study in year 11 and 12
  • trying to decide what university or TAFE course to do
  • leaving, or have just left, your job
  • trying to get back into work after being unemployed
  • thinking about changing careers
  • struggling with your work–life balance.

How to find a career counsellor

Most schools and education providers have career counsellors you can meet for free.

If you're still at school, you can meet your careers teacher. If you're at university or TAFE, visit your student union to see what kind of career counselling services are on offer.

There are also career counselling options if you're no longer studying. Career Counselling Australia offers career counselling services for individuals and groups in Victoria. It can be free, but if you're working there may be a small fee.

The Career Development Association of Australia’s find a career specialist page lets you search for a private career counsellor. These counsellors will charge a fee for their services.

Who else can help you with your career?

Career counsellors aren’t the only people you can go to for studying, training or work advice. You can also discuss your ideas and concerns with:

  • friends
  • family members
  • teachers
  • other adults you trust.

Sometimes other people in your life, like your parents, might be pressuring you to make a particular decision. You can ask them to come with you to speak to a career counsellor together. Meeting a career counsellor with you might help them to better understand your circumstances and opportunities.

More career planning resources

Your Career has guidance to assist you with finding a career path that's right for you.