Starting a new career or study later in life

It’s never too late to learn new skills, pursue a different career, or return to study. In fact, many Australians are choosing to retrain, upskill or change careers later in life, whether due to changing interests, health needs, redundancy, caring responsibilities or the rising cost of living. Jobs and Skills Australia notes that there is no single pathway to a successful career, with many people undertaking study and changing industries at different stages of their lives.

For people on a low income, the thought of paying for education can feel overwhelming. However, there are more affordable study options and support programs available than ever before.

Free and low-cost training options

One of the biggest opportunities for Australians in 2025 and 2026 is the expansion of Free TAFE programs. The Australian Government has partnered with state and territory governments to provide hundreds of thousands of fee-free training places in industries experiencing worker shortages, including aged care, disability support, health care, business, technology, community services and construction.

Priority access is available for groups who often face barriers to education, including:

• People receiving income support
• People who are unemployed
• Unpaid carers
• People with disability
• Women experiencing economic insecurity
• First Nations Australians

In Victoria, eligible students can access a wide range of Free TAFE qualifications, with tuition fees fully covered. Some courses may still require payment for books, materials or equipment.

Your life experience is an advantage

Many mature-age learners worry they are "too old" to start again. The reality is that employers often value the qualities that come with life and work experience, including reliability, communication skills, problem-solving ability and professionalism. Department of Employment and Workplace Relations highlights that mature-age workers bring valuable knowledge and transferable skills to the workplace.

Whether you've worked in retail, administration, hospitality, caring roles or customer service, many of your existing skills can transfer to new industries and occupations.

Support is available if you're over 45

If you're aged 45 or older and considering a career change, the Australian Government's Career Transition Assistance program provides free support to help participants:

• Build confidence
• Improve digital skills
• Identify transferable skills
• Explore new career paths
• Strengthen job-search techniques

The program is available both online and in person and may be suitable whether you're looking for work, returning to work, or planning a career change.

Start small and build confidence

Returning to study doesn't have to mean enrolling in a multi-year qualification straight away. Many people begin with:

• Short courses
• Online learning
• Skill sets and micro-credentials
• Community education programs
• Industry-specific certificates

Starting with a smaller commitment can help build confidence while allowing you to balance family, health and financial responsibilities.

A better future can start today

Changing careers or returning to study later in life may feel daunting, but many Australians are proving that age is not a barrier to learning and growth. With Free TAFE, government support programs and increasing demand for skilled workers, now may be an excellent time to invest in yourself and explore new opportunities.

Remember: Your experience has value, your skills are transferable, and the next chapter of your career could be closer than you think.

Thanks to: [jobsandskills.gov.au], [dewr.gov.au], [yourcareer.gov.au], [workforcea...lia.gov.au], [vic.gov.au]