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Leaving school and wondering what's next?

Key takeaways

  • It’s completely normal to feel unsure about life after school, and you don’t have to figure everything out right away. 
  • A career isn’t just one job — it’s all the work, learning and life experiences that help you grow over time. 
  • There are free services and tools across Australia that can help you explore your options and plan your next steps with confidence.
signpost with signs points different ways indicating different careers

Feeling unsure about life after school? You're not alone.

It’s normal to have questions about what comes next. The good news is there are plenty of free resources to help you explore your options and plan your future.

What is a career?

A career is more than just one job. It's all the work, learning, and life experiences you have over time. This can include:  

  • Education and training (including short or online courses) 
  • Work experience 
  • Involvement in community activities 
  • Starting your own business 
  • Paid jobs (full-time, part-time, or casual) 
  • Life roles, like being a parent or carer 
  • Volunteering 
  • Hobbies and travel 
Your career is shaped by your interests, skills, values, culture, family, education, and what’s happening in the world. These things can change over time, and so can your career. It’s very common to switch jobs or even careers several times over your life. 

 

Explore your options and get support

Whether you're finishing Year 12, leaving school early, or still working things out, there are lots of free tools and services to help you explore what's possible and plan your next steps.

Free career advice

You can access free career advice no matter where you live.  

Services like Headspace and Skillsroad offer one‑to‑one sessions to help you explore your options and feel more confident about your next steps. 

The Australian Government’s Transition to Work program also supports young people to move into work, training or study. 

If you're in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, or Tasmania, you can also access state‑based career services.

Tips

  • Book a session: Talk through your ideas with a career adviser. 
  • Prepare questions: Think about what you want to know so you can get the most out of it.

Explore career and study ideas.

You can use myfuture to learn about different jobs, industries and study pathways.  

It’s a great way to discover what interests you and explore careers you may not have considered.

Tips

  • Create a profile: Track your interests and career ideas. 
  • Use career quizzes: Find jobs that match your skills and interests. 

Support for early school leavers

If you leave school before finishing Year 12, you can still access support to help you figure out your next steps.   

Job Jumpstart has practical tools and ideas to help you explore opportunities that match your interests and strengths.

Tips

  • Explore different pathways: This could include apprenticeships, traineeships or further study. 
  • Find a mentor: A mentor can give you support and advice as you transition to work or further study.

Navigating life after school

The School Leavers Information Kit brings everything together in one place — from training and study options to job‑search tips. 

It’s available in multiple languages, with tailored versions for: 
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 
  • People with disability 
  • Regional, rural and remote school leavers

Tips

  • Read the kit: It’s a helpful way to understand your options. 
  • Make a plan: Take your time and map out the next steps that feel right for you.

Remember

It's okay to feel unsure about the future. You don’t need to have everything figured out right away. There are many resources and people ready to support you.  

If you ever feel stuck, talk to a teacher, a career adviser, or your Family Partnership Coordinator.

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