Venturing into a new career can be daunting, but it opens up exciting opportunities. In Australia, career change is becoming the norm, with support available for everyone.
How Common Is Career Change in Australia?
Job mobility is widespread. According to latest ABS data, over one million workers changed jobs from February 2024 to February 2025. A 2024 survey suggests one in two Australian workers were willing to make a career leap. "Career change is absolutely becoming the norm," says career coach Alice Cheng.
Has the term 'portfolio career' appeared on your LinkedIn feed? It's when you have multiple jobs and revenue streams simultaneously.
What If I'm Too Old or Inexperienced?
People of all life stages can make career moves. In your 40s, you gain confidence knowing what energizes you. In your 50s, it's time to decide if you want to live the next 10-15 years differently.
Migrants may need local experience for certain roles, but transferable skills from paid or unpaid roles are valuable. "Think 'what are my strengths?' and sell yourself with confidence," advises Cheng. Don't let accent concerns hold you back—most people in Australia have accents nowadays.
Where to Find Career Change Support in Australia
For information on reskilling, vocational education, and job trends, visit your state or territory's government website:
- Victoria: Skills and Jobs Centres
- Western Australia: Jobs and Skills Centres
- New South Wales: Skills NSW
- Queensland: Changing Careers
- Tasmania: Skills Tasmania
- Northern Territory: Workforce NT
- Australian Capital Territory: Skills ACT
- South Australia: Skills SA
Visit workforceaustralia.gov.au to use the Job Switch tool for employment options matching your skills. If you're 45 or over, check out the Career Transition Assistance program.
Craig Robertson, CEO of Victorian Skills Authority, recommends yourcareer.gov.au for labour market insights. This tool provides job prospects, wage outcomes, and relevant courses.
Staying home during the pandemic made many reflect on whether their work aligned with their values and lifestyle goals.
Current and Future Labour Market Trends
To boost competitiveness, consider AI competencies. "Industries are particularly looking for people with AI skills," says Dr. Caroline Knight from the University of Queensland.
Hybrid work is here to stay due to improved technology and security. While frontline workers are exceptions, most industries have roles suitable for remote work.
A constant sense of fatigue and losing interest in your work can be signs of burnout.
How to Know It's Time to Leave a Career
Career changes aren't always about pursuing new challenges—some are to escape toxic environments or burnout. Only you can assess if it's time to move on. Sometimes, discussing issues with your manager can help. "If you feel like you just don't fit the job, then definitely it's a good idea to move," advises Dr. Knight.
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