If you love educating and supporting the growth of children and young people, this industry may be for you. It suits people who are patient, compassionate and empathetic.
It is forecast that by 2026, Victoria will need 46,371 new workers in education and training. A further 83,324 workers will be needed in health care and social assistance.* A significant number of these jobs will involve working with children and young people.
On the education and training side, this profile focuses on working with pre-school and primary school aged children. For example, you could work as:
- an early childhood educator
- a child carer
- a preschool aide.
There are also many opportunities to work with older children, young adults and adult learners. Refer to our education and training services profile for more information.
On the community services side of working with children and young people, you could work in:
- youth work
- child protection
- family services.
Demand is high in early education and childcare, for teachers as well as care providers. A Vocational Education and Training (VET) course will qualify you to become a care provider or education aide. If you want to be a teacher, a VET course can put you on a pathway to go on to a teaching degree.
All areas of Victoria are in need. Populations have grown, creating jobs in this industry across Melbourne as well as regional and rural Victoria.
There are many entry-level jobs, but most require either a VET or higher education qualification. Once you’ve entered the industry, there are many ways to grow your career.
Explore the information below to learn more about working with children and young people.
Training and careers working with children and young people
What it’s like to work with children and young people
Find out what to expect on a day-to-day basis, what people love about the work and how much you can earn.
Featured working with children and young people jobs
Browse some of the most popular jobs working with children and young people.
Training and skills to work with children and young people
Explore training courses and skills to start working with children and young people. If you already work in the industry, training can help advance your career.
Get financial assistance for training and other expenses
You may be eligible for Free TAFE or Skills First funding to help pay for your training.
Getting a job working with children and young people
No matter where you are in your career journey, these resources can help you search for jobs and opportunities.
Resources and advice to plan your next steps
Use these free services and resources to plan your next steps. Learn about training options and funding, get career advice, and more.
Career success story
Supporting children in new ways: Amanda’s outside school hours care (OSHC) career
“A common misconception is that working with children only offers care-based work. While that is part of it, there is a range of opportunities. All of that coming out of one sector is pretty amazing.”
Explore growing industries in your region
Training and careers in your region
Explore training, skills and job opportunities in your area of Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of job you could do, and what training you’ll need.
Training and careers in growing industries
Learn about high demand industries in Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of jobs you could do, and what training you’ll need.
* These statistics cover the education and training industry and the health care and social assistance industry.
Community services is part of the health care and social assistance industry.
Statistics source: Victorian Skills Authority Employment Forecast Dashboard.
Updated