Step in the Right Direction QLD 2022 by News Corp Custom Publishing

IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION QLD 2022

Career choices Top tips to play to your strengths

POSITIVE OPTIONS FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Contents 03 06 12 16 20 26 32 36 39 42

GENERAL INFORMATION

CONSTRUCTION

TRANSPORT

AERO INDUSTRY

TRAINING INSTITUTES

AUTOMOTIVE

SERVICES

DISABILITY OPPORTUNITIES

FITNESS

DANCE

Custom Publishing Manager: Erika Brayshaw

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Writers: Jenna Martin, Kirrily Schwarz, Kate Calacouras, Alice Williams, Jessica Kramer, Alyssa Welke

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Disclaimer: The information contained within Step in the Right Direction magazine is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. News Corp will not be held liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.

Australia’s best-paid jobs There’s a diverse range of jobs that pay well over six figures around the country.

By Kirrily Schwarz

f you were going to guess the highest-paying job in Australia, what would it be? A CEO of a giant company? Some kind of medical specialist? A FIFO worker in the mining industry? The answer is actually director-level jobs in the banking and financial services sector, with an average paypacket of $199,651 according to data from employment marketplace Seek.

A shortage of key workers is driving demand to unprecedented levels. “There are a number of ICT roles that require highly specialised skills and are in high demand across a wide range of organisations,” says Mr Broderick. “If the current climate persists it’s entirely conceivable that ICT roles will take the top spots in time.” The top jobs vary widely from state to state, depending on the skills most in demand: VIC:

Psychiatrist — $198,000

NSW: Healthcare specialist — $196,000 QLD: Healthcare specialist — $187,000

This is closely followed by medical specialists ($194,700), mining equipment operators ($194,603), construction managers ($193,283), and construction project directors ($193,089). This data proves Australia has a diverse selection of well-paid jobs.

WA:

“The roles in the top 20 are pretty typical,” says Leigh Broderick, senior analytics manager at Seek. “Specialised roles in healthcare, information and communications technology (ICT), construction and mining consistently rank among the highest-paying roles in Australia.”

TAS: Occupational therapist — $89,000

When it comes to growth industries, ICT is undoubtedly one to watch — especially in the current jobs market.

Mining superintendent — $185,000

ACT: ICT solutions architect — $160,000 SA:

Dentist — $143,000

NT:

Construction manager — $138,000

Data is based on average full-time and annualised hourly salaries (excluding contract roles) for job ads listed on Seek from January-March 2022 compared to January-March 2021. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, NSW is home to the largest labour force in the country with 32 per cent of the national total,

closely followed by VIC at 26 per cent. The employment market has seen fundamental changes over the past few decades. A recent report from the National Skills Commission, reveals that three decades ago the manufacturing industry was the largest employer in the country, accounting for 14 per cent of total employment. These days, it’s the eighth-largest and only accounts for 6 per cent. It’s a similar story with agriculture. Back in the 1990s, it employed 5 per cent of all workers, but that figure has fallen to 2 per cent as technology and automation have advanced. Technology is undoubtedly a big growth sector. A recent report from RMIT University in Melbourne found that Australia has a major digital skills gap, with 156,000 new tech workers needed to keep pace with changing demands. Right now, 87 per cent of all jobs include some kind of technological skills and that number is expected to rise quickly. However, that’s not the only field expected to see rapid expansion in coming years. RMIT researchers have also flagged software and analytics, robotics, eCommerce, construction, virtual reality, and healthcare as being the fastest-growing industries in the country. One thing is for sure: there will be no shortage of jobs in the future.

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Exciting wins for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Queensland budget By Penny Hamilton

upporting Indigenous girls and young women to complete Year 12 is at the heart of work done by The Stars Foundation, which will receive a $2.8 million boost from the Queensland government in FY23. Working alongside programs delivered by Netball Queensland and the Brisbane Broncos, Stars was founded in 2015 as a national not-for-profit organisation that offers a holistic program supporting Indigenous girls and young women to attend and remain in school and move into full-time work or further study. The program also offers work experience, site tours and various immersive technology experiences with defence contractors BAE International to engage young Indigenous students to consider a Science Technology Engineering Maths (STEM) career. BAE Systems chief executive officer Ben Hudson said, “we’re uniquely positioned to raise the awareness of STEM among Aboriginal and Torres

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Strait Islander communities. We seek to inspire the next generation; educating and empowering girls has a powerful multiplier effect, benefitting not only the girls, but also their families, communities and future generations.”

Nations people in Queensland to get back into jobs, and ahead of Origin 1, the Palaszczuk Government announced more support for ARTIE, an Indigenous education program supported by the Queensland Former Origin Greats (FOGS).

The Queensland Government’s 2022-23 Budget will also inject $115.6 million over the next four years to accelerate the growth, development and distribution of First Nations arts, boost the creative workforce, and enhance the delivery of local arts experiences that drive social and economic outcomes in Queensland communities.

Announcing the investment, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said the $5.6 million investment in Achieving Results Through Indigenous Education (ARTIE) would support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students programs over the next four years.

Minister for Communities and Housing, Minister for Digital Economy and Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said, ”Brisbane 2032 is set to be a powerful celebration of First Nations arts, with a focus on sharing the stories of First Nations peoples through the commissioning of new work and building robust supply chains to deliver economic outcomes for First Nations peoples and There will also be $35 million invested into the Back to Work program, which will continue to support First

“Arthur Beetson embodied everything about Queenslanders striving for success,” the Treasurer said. ”The ARTIE program named in his honour is a fitting legacy that continues to support Indigenous school children in many locations across the state.” “ARTIE assists to Close the Gap in educational outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students,” Minister Grace said. “It’s great to have a program in place that has Indigenous mentors leading from the front, which is very motivating for Indigenous youth.”

The skills shortage and what it means for you

The National Skills Commission’s most recent Skills Priority List found that 42 per cent of technician and trade occupations are currently in shortage, compared to 19 per cent of all assessed occupations being found to be in shortage.

backlog of thousands of visa applications for skilled workers has driven businesses across Australia to breaking point as they struggle to fill staff shortages, causing potential delays for major projects. There are currently 140,000 skilled workers wanting to come to Australia, according to new figures released by Home Affairs. The number of skilled foreign workers in Australia is less than half what it was a decade ago and the number of these workers leaving the country exceeded those arriving in April. Melbourne-based recruiter Graham Wynn from Superior People Recruitment said employers across all sectors were grappling with massive skills shortages after the international border closure during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic. “I’ve done this business for 13 years, I’ve never seen it this bad,” he said. “This is the worst and most difficult it’s been to find people.” He said it was “across the board”. “Salespeople, technicians, a bit of IT we’re struggling with as well, but even the more basic roles which don’t require any experience like receptionists, we’re even struggling to find those at the moment,” he said. There are currently nearly 500,000

vacant jobs available across the country, with employers struggling to find staff to fill positions. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that there were 480,000 job vacancies in May; 58,000 more than in February 2022, and more than double the vacancies in February 2020 (227,000). In addition to a higher number of vacancies, a quarter of all businesses reported at least one vacancy in May. This rate was more than double the pre-pandemic level in February 2020 (11 per cent). The largest growth in job vacancies was in Victoria, which increased by 18 per cent over the three months to May 2022, followed by New South Wales (12 per cent). It may sound all ‘doom and gloom’, but for people looking to enter the job market, there are unexpected benefits. There is more choice than ever before when looking for a new job or a new career, and often more money. The critical skills shortage is resulting in some tradies earning six-figure sums immediately after completing their apprenticeship, says WPC Group general manager Andrew Sezonov. The mining sector is also heating up the competition to get jobs filled, with six-figure salaries up for grabs in more than 1700 jobs across the sector,

and some companies even offering a $10,000 sign-on bonus. Even roles for trainee fitters are seeing salary offers of between $75,000 and $85,000. Katrina Lee Jones, director of skills, education and diversity at QRC, said the construction boom had made competition for staff even worse, alongside a move towards more technology-based roles in the industry rather than just people being on the ground. The tech industry is another sector that is crying out for more skilled staff. Companies, such as Amazon, Google, Atlassian and Canva, are paying between $147,000 and $350,000 for graduates, with some salaries including stock options and endof-year bonuses, according to data obtained by News Corp Australia. Some of the eye-watering salaries, which would normally only be paid to chief executives, are seen at trading firms seeking software engineers, with Jane Street paying $350,000, IMC shelling out $260,000 and Amsterdam-based trading platform Optiver offering $250,000. Yet, the median salary of an Australian worker sits at just $62,400, according to the ABS — so there’s no better time than the present to be strategic about what career you train for.

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Consider a career in the Wall & Ceiling Industry Association of Wall & Ceiling Industries of Queensland

AWCI QLD at www.awciqld.org.au or call us on 07 3846 5688

Want to be a wall and ceiling liner? AWCI Queensland is the principal organisation advocating the interests of contractors, suppliers and manufacturers in the wall and ceiling industries in Queensland. AWCI Queensland is highly regarded by both members and the industry it serves, for providing valuable business, technical and product information, education and training and industry contacts essential to operating a successful business.

hen it comes to deciding upon the right career path for you, adaptability of trades and skills is an area many don’t place enough focus on. Choosing a career which enables you to take what you have learnt and apply it to other areas of the same industry or new vocations all together, is highly desirable. According to Perry Richardson of Association of Wall & Ceiling Industries Queensland, this is one of the many benefits of a wall and ceiling liner. “The flexibility the industry offers people is some of the key feedback we get,” Perry said. “Members also talk about the opportunities that are presented to them through their trade and the fact that their skills are transportable and have led to opportunities they never thought would come their way.” If you feel a trade as a Wall and Ceiling Liner may be the right fit for you, read on to find out exactly what a role in the industry entails.

What does a Wall and Ceiling Liner do? A wall and ceiling liner is involved in: • Fitting suspended ceilings on decorative plasterboard, plaster glass partitions, fire rating systems, acoustic tiles and composite wall linings to the internal and external on walls, ceilings and facades of domestic and commercial buildings • Installing special ceilings (metal and fibre) • Bridging and bracing various suspension systems As a wall and ceiling liner you will: • Estimate the quantity of materials required by measuring surfaces or

reviewing a work order • Measure room dimensions and estimate the number and sizes of plasterboard sheets required for the task • Plumb and straighten corners, angles and wall and ceiling surfaces • Measure and mark cutting lines on plasterboard • Cut plasterboard, lift and position panels and nail or secure them with glue to walls and ceilings • Prepare corner beads and secure them in position • Set precast ornamental plaster ceilings • Fix precast cornices and panel mouldings, ceiling centres and other plaster fittings prepared with a bonding agent • Operate pump driven spray machines to apply various plaster, fire proofing and sound proofing materials • Apply drywall taping • Mix and apply coats of plaster, cement or similar materials to walls and ceilings, levelling and smoothing using trowels to obtain an even thickness • Fix fascias and soffits

What will you need to be wall and ceiling liner • Reliable transportation or access to reliable public transportation • Manual dexterity • Good sense of balance • Strength and stamina to work with heavy tools and materials • Ability to work at heights • Strength to move heavy ladders or set up scaffolding • Desire to do a precise and

thorough job • Keenness to use tools and equipment to perform tasks requiring precision • Ability to follow established procedures and solve problems by experimenting

What working conditions can I expect? Wall and ceiling liners usually work a 40-hour, five-day week with some overtime required to meet construction schedules. Those who work for themselves would normally work longer hours including weekends to complete the job as quoted. You will work both indoors on interior surfaces and outside on exteriors and facades of a building. You may work in confined spaces, in damp or dusty conditions, you may work on the ground, on elevated platforms or on scaffolds. You may routinely be required to lift supplies and equipment weighing up to 25 kilograms. Some travel may be required to get to work on various sites, including interstate and overseas in some instances.

How do I get a Trade Certificate? A trade certificate can be obtained by successfully completing on the job training at the employers workplace and off the job training with an accredited training provider. For more details on units of competency/ modules that need to be completed during a wall and ceiling liner apprenticeship, contact Megan Savas, www.awciqld.org.au.

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g n i b m u l p a n a c Where ? u o y e k a t p i h apprentices Business Owner Project Manager Leading Hand Supervisor Plumbing Manager Plumbing Inspector Trade Teacher/Trainer Estimator Hydraulic Design Consultant Gasfitter Fire Systems Specialist

Find out more about a plumbing apprenticeship! MPAQ | www.mpaq.com.au | 3273 0800 Plumbing Apprentices Queensland | www.plumber.com.au/paq

Apprenticeship Support Providers BUSY at Work | www.busyatwork.com.au | 132 879 Sarino Russo Apprenticeships | www.sarinarusso.com | 1300 175 776

ATAR future

he Queensland senior education pathway to tertiary entry underwent a major shake-up in 2020 with the introduction of Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) for Year 12 school leavers. According to the QCAA (Qld Curriculum & Assessment Authority) the ATAR is used nationally and indicates a student’s position relative to other ATAR-eligible students. Queensland ATARs are based on a student’s: • best five General subject results, or • best results in four General subjects, plus one Applied subject, or • best results in four General subjects, plus one VET qualification at Certificate III or above.

There are a number of differences between the ATAR and the OP: • The ATAR is a finer grained rank order of students than the OP. • The ATAR is a number between 0.00 (lowest) and 99.95 (highest) with increments of 0.05. ATARs below 30 are reported as 30.00 or less. • The OP consists of bands from 1 (highest) to 25 (lowest). The ATAR allows tertiary admissions centres to compare students from across Australia when they apply for tertiary places. Each state and territory is responsible for calculating ATARs for school leavers in their own state. The OP showed a student’s position in a state-wide rank compared to all other OP-eligible students in Queensland.

To be eligible for an ATAR, students must successfully complete an English subject. The result in English will only be included in the ATAR calculation if it is one of the student’s best five scaled results.

Queensland Minister for Education The Honourable Grace Grace said, in 2019 before ATAR was introduced, that the ATAR would ensure results are as inclusive and fair for students as possible.

Before 2020, the Overall Position (OP) was the primary pathway for tertiary entrance for Year 12 school leavers. The QCAA calculated OPs.

“Rankings will be generated directly from senior subject results,” Ms Grace said.

What is the difference between the ATAR and the OP?

“It is used in other states and territories and will be administered by the Queensland Tertiary Admissions

Centre (QTAC).” In 2020, QTAC chief executive officer Dr John Griffiths said it was wonderful to see Queensland students utilised the three different schemes on offer to achieve an ATAR - five General subjects, four General subjects and one VET course (Cert III or higher), four General subjects and one Applied subject. “This reinforces the important decision to include VET in the Queensland ATAR and is evidence of a well-rounded and inclusive education for students in Queensland,” he said. Ms Grace said secondary schooling in Queensland continued to provide valued pathways for all students whether that was to university, TAFE or other training or paid work. “The Queensland Government has invested more than $130 million in the new QCE system to give students the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century,” she said. “Schools across Queensland introduced the new syllabuses and assessment model with Year 11 students in 2019, and the success of the transition is a credit to the hard work and professionalism of principals and teachers.”

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WHAT CAN WE DELIVER FOR YOU? You probably already know that trucks deliver everything from your phone, to your clothes and your food...? Australia’s heavy vehicle industry also delivers: • innovation, • sustainability, • technology,

and... diverse and rewarding career paths. It could be your future too. Get on board here:

Truckjobs.online

Much more than just a job

A career in the heavy vehicle industry could take you all over the world.

ou probably already know that trucks deliver pretty much everything you use every day — your TV, your phone, your furniture, your clothes, your food — even your car arrived on a truck. Australia’s heavy vehicle industry is planning and building the vehicles and technology to deliver our current and future needs, with hundreds of Australian and international companies involved in the manufacture, distribution and support of trucks, trailers, technology and their components. We also deliver innovation, sustainability, technology, and diverse and rewarding career paths. It could be your future too! If you are keen on a trade, there are two different pathways, with lots of other options attached to both: • Heavy Vehicle mechanical • Trailer manufacturing/vehicle body building You might like the logistics side — warehouse control and stock management? Or at university you can’t go past

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Engineering. You could be designing the next amazing truck or trailer or smart safety technology? Of course, there are countless other roles in marketing, finance, administration, HR and much more. It is a great industry to keep developing new skills.

We hope that these wonderful people talking about their own experiences will inspire you to take a closer look at the opportunities on offer in the heavy vehicle industry. Let’s start with Evan Jones. A couple of years ago he was recognised as HVIA National Apprentice of the Year. He is a great example of someone whose journey is already opening doors.

Evan Jones | Qualified technician | VCV Brisbane North No day is the same as the last; I could be doing servicing, diagnostics, major repairs or even some field service work.

Evan Jones We thought it might be interesting for you to hear from a few people who work in different roles in the heavy vehicle industry. There is a consistent theme that has come through from all of them: if you have a “can-do” attitude, and you are willing to throw yourself in and give things a red-hot go, this industry has opportunities that can set you up for life.

I contribute as part of the team, doing my bit to have trucks prepared efficiently and to a high-quality. I teach the younger apprentices the skills I’ve learned over the course of my apprenticeship. If you want a career in the industry, the first and probably most important quality you need is the want and drive to do the work. The heavy vehicle industry has a vast number of opportunities available and even the chance to work anywhere around the country.

within the transport industry is absolutely go for it.

on when starting your career: Grab any opportunities to learn from people who have been in the industry for a while.

Louise Azzopardi | assessor | WesTrac

There are so many different opportunities. Just make sure that you apply yourself, you work hard and make sure you love what you do.

Spend time with them, and just soak up as much information as you can. Louise Azzopardi It’s a great industry to be involved in; it’s a big Trainer and industry — just give it a go.

Mike Fowler | Director & GM – On Highway Business | Cummins South Pacific I started my career with Cummins as an apprentice diesel mechanic. Today, leading the engine business for Cummins is really exciting. It’s a role that I always aspired to my entire career.

My first position was as a heavy vehicle mechanical apprentice at Cummins. I found that I really enjoyed training younger apprentices, so I transitioned into a Trainer and Assessor role. We give apprentices the background knowledge and the skills, to have the confidence and the ability to adapt. One of my proudest achievements, I was the first female to ever compete in the National Apprentice Competition. Then I was the first female to win. I felt like I was paving the way for women and making it easier for them to get in. If you are considering a role in the heavy vehicle industry, give it a go. Get in and do the things that make you feel uncomfortable, because that’s where you’re going to learn the most. Do the tasks that you’re a little bit nervous about. Ask questions along the way because everyone will give you a hand.

A typical day for me could mean anything: I could be driving a truck; hosting a meeting; out in the field visiting customers; doing long-term strategic plans or managing the day-to-day business affairs of the company.

Stacey Davies

Starting a career in the heavy vehicle industry — there’s no substitute for a can-do attitude.

Stacey Davies | Network Optimization Manager | Daimler Truck and Bus My role contributes to the company by increasing the number of return customers. If a customer has a great experience, they are more likely to return to purchase a new product. My favourite thing about Daimler is the culture. We have great people, and it really is a great environment to work in.

Mike Fowler

Within the heavy vehicle industry there are just so many opportunities for young people. This has been the best job in my ten-year career, and I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.

Richard Singer | Regional Executive Manager| Scania Australia One of the things that I’m super proud Rob Smedley of is that I’ve had the opportunity to Rob Smedley | Managing work with people and help Director | Smedley’s Engineers them develop their own careers through additional training and A lot of people come to us support. with really interesting, different problems. Getting the opportunity Watching them have a to solve those — in a creative new successful career certainly way — and developing new things, is makes me proud. a great experience. My message for young people Some qualities you should take

looking at career opportunities

If you develop a plan, and you work towards that plan, I think the sky’s the limit in this industry.

Get on board here: truckjobs.online HVIA is the association representing the heavy vehicle industry. Phone (07) 3376 6266

Richard Singer

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Dreaming of a career as a pilot? Be part of the next generation with the Qantas Group Pilot Academy. Find out more at qantas.com/pilotacademy

Get on the flight path to success with Qantas Qantas helps you fly high in your career

he Qantas Group draws on more than one hundred years of the highest standards of training to ensure that their pilots are some of the world’s best. And they’re looking to the next generation. The Qantas Group Pilot Academy was established in 2019 to help meet the increasing need for skilled aviators in Australia and across the region. With travel well and truly back, the demand for pilots is growing once again. The Qantas Group Pilot Academy part of the airline’s plan to build a

long-term talent pipeline not just for Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar, but for the industry more broadly. As the national carrier, Qantas has a history of attracting the best and brightest and applications are open today. The Academy isn’t the only way to become a Qantas pilot. The Qantas Group Future Pilot Program offers aviation students, from a range of universities, the opportunity to be mentored by experienced Qantas Group pilots while they are studying.

Whether students dream of one day flying on Qantas’ international network, connecting communities in regional Australia or giving back to aviation through a career as an instructor, the Qantas Group Future Pilot Program will help students to better understand the pathways available to them. To find out more about the Qantas Group Pilot Academy visit qantas.com/pilotacademy. You can also discover more about careers with the Qantas Group at qantas.com/careers or jetstar.com/careers

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Blue collar workers – Queensland

ork in construction, mining, manufacturing, maintenance and agriculture, offers great opportunities to gain skill and build a great work-life balance. All of these industries offer school leavers something university study never can — learning a trade while earning a living. And in many cases young people can begin learning the skills they need while they complete secondary education through vocational education and training (VET) in school. According to Queensland Department of Education the successful completion of VET provides students with nationally recognised qualifications that deliver the skills and knowledge required for specific industries and occupations. Nationally recognised VET must be delivered by a registered training organisation (RTO), including: • schools that are RTOs • other RTOs, such as TAFE and private training providers. VET qualifications can be undertaken in Years 10, 11 and 12 and may provide credit towards the Queensland Certificate of Education. Benefits of participating in VET include (but are not limited to): • obtaining practical experience from work • gaining familiarity on how workplaces operate • developing employability skills • developing and improving interpersonal skills • allowing students to explore the potential career path they would like to pursue. All of this allows a young person great opportunities when they graduate – opportunities to travel through FIFO work, or in the case of agricultural work, opportunities to embrace “station life” and a different set of experience in the vast livestock stations of outback Australia.

But it isn’t just school leavers who can benefit, with older workers looking for a career change, equally suited to the work.

FIFO or station life can also give workers the chance to save some serious money to put towards their future plans, be it buying a home, travel, or investing in future education. These industries (construction, mining, manufacturing, maintenance and agriculture) offer a range of employment options and career paths to follow.

Construction, manufacturing and maintenance Man people think construction is just made up of building and carpentry, but the careers available under the wider construction banner are varied. Other careers that fall under the construction banner include: • Painting and decorating • Glass and glazing • Furniture finishing and furniture making

automotive, light vehicle and heavy vehicle mechanics, as well as autoelectricans.

Mining Unsurprisingly, mining makes up a major employer within Queensland, and is a popular industry with many people because of the lifestyle it offers. Most mine workers are fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) meaning they go to their work site for the “on swing” and then have “off-swing” at home. FIFO swings can vary; they are quite commonly twoon, two-off meaning workers are on site for two weeks and off-site for two weeks. Many people find this a fantastic work-life balance. Many trades that are in construction, manufacturing and maintenance are also needed in mining, so acquiring trades in these areas can lead to more employment opportunities.

• Joinery

Agriculture

• Cabinet making

The agricultural sector is a large employer in Queensland, and in fact, across the country.

• Stonemasonry • Roof plumbing, gas fitting and plumbing • Air-conditioning and refrigeration • Civil construction — plant operations • Signs and graphics • Electrotechnology, electrician, sustainable energy • Tiling • Plastering Manufacturing careers include welding and boiler making and vehicle body building. These skills are utilised across a range of industries. Maintenance work can include

Agriculture encompasses all of the categories which fall under the “food and fibre” umbrella; this can include working with livestock, like cattle, sheep, goats or pigs, horticulture growing vegetables, broad acre farming growing cereal grains, and cotton. It can also include the timber industry. The work is varied and working in the great outdoors can be extremely fulfilling. When it comes to your future it pays to think outside the box of university study — and it pays well in many cases.

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Opening up multiple career pathways

Extensive employer networks reach across Queensland — from construction to corporate business to care and support services

arina Russo Apprenticeships (SRA) will work with you to give you an opportunity to earn income and gain skills and qualifications that are beneficial for your future. As well as on-the-job training in a workplace, you will learn under the guidance of a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). By the end of your apprenticeship or traineeship, you will have earned a national recognised qualification that will open up multiple career pathways. SRA offers multiple apprenticeships and traineeships to ensure anyone interested in a qualification will be eligible to do so. Youth apprenticeships are available to school leavers under 21 years old while adult apprenticeships are for anyone over 21. For students still in high school

and aged over 15, a school-based apprenticeship is available to complete while you finish your schooling. Your learning can even contribute to your high school certificate or Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)! No matter what industry you are interested in, SRA has extensive employer networks across Queensland from construction to corporate business to care and support services. SRA will support you through your entire apprenticeship and will assist you with finding the right fit for your career path, locking in the right RTO and helping you to lodge paperwork, manage all government incentives and keep you on track with mentoring services. One apprentice who has benefitted from partnering with SRA is Bethany. With assistance from SRA, she signed

up to a carpentry apprenticeship with Blue Eco Homes. After starting her apprenticeship, she found some male tradesmen still didn’t believe that construction was a place for women. She started an Instagram to advocate for women and show them that a trade is a career path for everyone. Through her advocacy work, Bethany was asked to join multiple committees, nominated for multiple awards and partnered with Janelle Henson, an SRA Youth Engagement Officer, to promote the Women in Non-Traditional Trades campaign and present at schools to support other young women into trades. Bethany has some words of wisdom for other women wanting an apprenticeship — “If a trade is what you want, get it. Do not let fear get in your way. Push for it every day.”

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The pros and cons of online learning Between progression of technology and multiple pandemic stay-at-home orders in the past two years, online learning is more prevalent than ever. But is it really as handy as it seems?

t’s been an easy structure to fall into for relatively self-directed learners — such as tertiary students and high-schoolers — and foot traffic on campuses is showing that many people are loathe to go back to the traditional in-person format of education. One private school in Victoria has even launched a permanent program that allows students to complete all of high school online, called Haileybury Pangea. Its main feature is an online high school for years 5 to 12, but two other learning options will also be offered – more than 20 single VCE subjects for years 10 to 12 over the course of two semesters and one-week online numeracy and literacy school holiday

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learning programs. The cost of this schooling hasn’t yet been announced, but it’s not expected to match the more than $34,000 annual fees the school charges for its in-person years 7 to 12 programs. Add to this the reduced cost from textbooks not being required, and it begs the question — is online learning the key to the future and saving money on education for families and new adults? It can be difficult to see any downsides to education being primarily online, especially for those in metropolitan areas where the commute adds significant hours to the day and cost. However, there are several industry

experts who have weighed in, stating that exclusively online learning can have a detrimental effect to students. Adolescent and child psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg has urged university heads to “get students back on campus as much as possible”. Dr Carr-Gregg said three key developmental tasks were required of first and second-year students, including the need to broaden their social horizons by meeting other people on campus, which isn’t happening in an online environment. “The second task is emancipation from adult carers,” he said. “One of the great things about going to university is to recognise you can be independent of your parents. Some

of the kids are missing out on that stuck at home. “I fear they are going to be more insular than ever, particularly private school kids who have only grown up with other private school kids. “The third developmental task is that one of the great things about going to university is to take some healthy risks, play some of the sport, join the clubs, and they are not even having that at the moment. “I think this could potentially delay the psychological development of a whole generation of young people.” Dr Carr-Gregg also raised concerns students would also lack the social skills to be work-ready. Social researcher Mark McCrindle said there are now uni students in third year who have not been on campus. “Students are diminished through it,” he said.

also spoken out about how traditional university life is being destroyed for students who are still paying massive fees for content that in some cases can just be “googled online”.

in-person learning remains at the descretion of the student and/ or their family — if the student is already struggling socially, on-campus university can be a wonderful outlet.

“It’s about preparing themselves for a future of work.

But university officials say students “prefer lectures online” so they intend to continue cutting out live lectures.

Academics, experts and students have

At the end of the day, online verses

On the other side of the coin, online education allows more flexibility and the opportunity to work while studying or save costs.

“The university life stage is not just about the learning, it’s about the broader transferable skills, the life skills, the interaction with the diverse range of views that are on a campus.

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SOME OF THE CURRENT CAREER PATHWAYS WITHIN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY INCLUDE:

› Automotive Technician (Mechanic) › Automotive Air Conditioning Technician › Electric Vehicle Technician › Automotive Service Technician › Outdoor Power Equipment Technician › Bicycle Technician › MotorSport Technician › Automotive Tyre Technician › Automotive Electrical Technician › Automotive Underbody Technician › Motorcycle Technician › Diesel Mechanic › Heavy Vehicle Mechanic (Trucks) › Mobile Plant Mechanic (Tractors) › Agricultural Equipment Technician › Engine Reconditioner › Trailer Technician › Vehicle Trimmer › Vehicle Glazer › Marine Mechanic › Vehicle Loss Assessor › Alternate Fuel Technician (LPG, LNG)

› Driveline Technician › Automotive Brake Specialist › Automotive Cooling Technicians › Automotive Sales › Automotive Part Recycler › Vehicle Body Collision Repair › Vehicle Refinishing › Service Station Attendant › Automotive Parts Interpreters › Vehicle Detailer › Diesel Fuel Specialist Automotive Dealers THERE ARE ALSO SIGNIFICANT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES ARISING FROM NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND INNOVATION INCLUDING:

› Advanced manufacturing and 3d printing for parts › Advanced driver assisted systems and sensor

technology › Autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles › New fuels, particularly hydrogen › Infrastructure for new fuels › Connecting vehicles and infrastructure › Waste management and recycling for automotive parts, particularly tyres, body and parts › Mobility solutions and last-mile transportation

AUTO READY A five-day, accredited, school holiday course designed to give high-school students in Year 10,11 and 12 hands-on experience in a range of automotive tasks relating to using and maintaining tools and equipment and identifying and inspecting mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles.

AUR20720 CERTIFICATE II IN AUTOMOTIVE VOCATIONAL PREPARATION A five-week course aimed at providing a basic introduction to workshop-based employment in the automotive industry. Students will learn a range of tasks relating to identifying and inspecting mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles, while additionally receiving knowledge and skills to seamlessly allow them to transition from the classroom into full-time employment in the industry.

AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICESHIPS The MTA Institute offers a full suite of nationally accredited automotive apprenticeships and traineeships in the fields of Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle, Motorcycle, Mobile Plant, Automotive Body Repair, Refinishing and more.

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CONTACT LEANNAT@MTAQ.COM.AU OR VISIT WWW.MTAI.EDU.AU/COURSES

Driving Women’s Careers in Automotive

Rapidly evolving technological change, including electric and connected vehicles, is bringing about exciting new opportunities for women in considering a career in the automotive and mobility industries.

he automotive and mobility industry is in the midst of revolutionary disruption that continues to change the very fabric of the industry. The rise of battery electric and hybrid vehicles, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including high-tech cameras and sensors, as well as first- and lastmile mobility solutions are bringing about new career opportunities and pathways never before dreamed of. Once considered an industry purely for grease-monkeys and rev-heads, a new wave of automotive professionals is beginning to emerge as a result of these new technologies. And where automotive employees were traditionally driven by a passion for cars, this new wave of aspiring professionals are drawn in primarily by a love for technology, engineering, and graphic design. A key factor in this push into the

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future is the birth of electric vehicles (EVs). Where traditional internal combustion engine vehicles are full of grease and oil, EVs are based on a completely different platform. EV technicians need to be skilled in a whole separate set of skills to service and repair the electrical systems that underpin the electric drivetrain.

to collision repairer and refinisher to engine reconditioner — which themselves are reaping the benefits of evolving technological advancements, new career pathways continue to emerge primed to be led by a greater female presence.

Modern cars are also becoming increasingly advanced in terms of the computers and technology inside them. As such, greater focus is now being placed on being able to understand and utilise diagnostic and analytic tools to identify faults and perform repairs, skills more traditionally aligned with engineering and IT then the automotive trades.

• Advanced manufacturing and 3D printing

Excitingly, this is opening the door to opportunities for more women to consider a career in automotive. In addition to the traditional automotive trades — from automotive technician

• Waste management and recycling for automotive parts

Specific new opportunities include sectors involving:

• ADAS • Autonomous and semiautonomous vehicles • New fuels (hydrogen) and fuel infrastructure • Connected vehicles and infrastructure

It has been often considered that the automotive industry in Australia is underrepresented by female

employees, particularly in the workshop. However, perhaps for the first time, real opportunity currently exists to drive change and develop career pathways tailored to the development of female employees. This is critically important when you consider the on-going skill and labour shortage impacting automotive businesses. According to the Motor Trades Association of Australia’s Directions in Australia’s Automotive Industry: An Industry Report 2021, 52 per cent of automotive businesses are experiencing a shortage of skilled labour. This equates to a nation-wide shortage of approximately 31,143 positions across all areas of the industry. Taking a glass-half-full view of this issue, an overwhelming number of opportunities are currently available for young, aspiring individuals looking to enter the industry. Businesses are crying out for enthusiastic, passionate employees to enter into an apprenticeship, bring a breath of fresh air, and become their next star. Understanding this, the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland), through the training arm MTA Institute (RTO. 31529), is committed to delivering a training pathway that facilitates great career

opportunities in the automotive industry for high-school aged students. Queensland’s largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and Vocational Education and Training (VET), the MTA Institute has an eye on the ground when it comes to understanding the skills required of automotive employees in the workshop of today, as well as the future skills fast becoming required. For high school students, the pathway begins with the accredited Auto Ready course.

AUTO READY Auto Ready is a five-day, introductory course for high-school students in Year 10, 11 or 12, held during the school holidays that takes participants through a basic introduction of the automotive industry. Designed to provide a taste of some of the many career opportunities available in the industry, Auto Ready delivers hands-on learning on a range of tasks relating to using and maintaining tools and equipment and identifying and inspecting mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a statement of attainment for three units, which may be put towards an

automotive apprenticeship down the track. Alternatively, another option for school-leavers looking to enter the automotive pathway is the AUR20720 Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation.

AUTOMOTIVE VOCATIONAL PREPARATION The Certificate II course is a five-week program designed to give students a basic introduction to workshopbased employment in the automotive industry. Students undertaking this course will learn a range of tasks relating to identifying and inspecting mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles, while additionally receiving knowledge and skills to seamlessly allow them to transition from the classroom into fulltime employment in the industry. This course is ideal for candidates looking to increase their employability potential and progress towards the next step in the automotive pathway, commencing an automotive apprenticeship. If you are interested in getting started on your journey to a career in the automotive and mobility industry, get in contact with our Women’s Career Guidance Officer by emailing leannat@mtaq.com.au.

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New frontiers in work-life balance

Remote working models have given employees more control than ever.

By Kirrily Schwarz

ustralia was moving towards a hybrid working model well before the outbreak of COVID-19, says Dr Ben Hamer, Head of Future of Work at PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia (PwC). However, the pandemic hit the accelerator. Fast-forward to 2022 and a new PwC study indicates that Australian knowledge-based workers want to work from home an average of three days per week. Dr Hamer says there are three key benefits that come with this. First, these models give employees greater choice and control over when and how they work, which ultimately increases engagement. Second, it allows more people to enter the workforce, opening up roles to broader groups of people. And third, it promotes much greater diversity and inclusion in the workplace, which means more ideas and innovation.

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“People’s ability to choose how and when they work drives up motivation and engagement and therefore productivity,” he says. “There’s something really positive about the choice afforded to individuals when it comes to working from home. It allows them to spend more time with their kids, or more time at the gym, and save money on the commute as well.” There’s no question that hybrid working is here to stay. As a relatively new concept, it’s rapidly evolving, which means now is the time for each workplace, and each employee, to determine what it should look like and how it should work. The corporate 9-5 rulebook has been thrown out the window and the possibilities for worklife balance are endless. For example, hybrid working — which sees employees split their time between their home and their office — isn’t the only option on the table. It’s also possible to work entirely in the office, or entirely remotely, depending on what best suits the organisation and the individual. Want to work from a van while you drive the length of the east coast? Fine. Want to work from a cruise ship

in the South Pacific? Also fine. Want to work from Bali or Vietnam? No worries. Want to go for a walk or hit the gym in the middle of the day? All good. Hit a mental wall and need to have a break? Come back in the evening when you’re feeling refreshed. The trick is striking the right balance with your employer. Technology giant Cisco was recently crowned Great Place to Work’s best workplace in Australia for the second year in a row, which is no mean feat in the midst of a pandemic. “We recognised early that as employees adapted to the future of work, the thing they valued most was control over their time,” says James Comer, Head of HR at Cisco ANZ. “We’ve never believed that officebound roles were the way forward — whether it’s four days a week or four days a year, we believe it should be down to human beings to tailor their own working week, so they can dynamically manage and integrate their personal and professional lives.” The future of work is here and workers have more control over their worklife balance than ever before. There’s never been a better time to create the lifestyle of your dreams.

The skills you need to learn today for the career boom of tomorrow By Penny Hamilton

role, regardless of if that role is directly in the tech industry or tech related.”

hile 20 years ago the bluechip jobs included being a doctor, lawyer or engineer, today’s school leavers are applying to be cloud engineers, artificial intelligence developers or social media megastars. So how do Australian schools prepare students with the right skill set for life after graduation when the average Australian will have up to seven different careers during their lifetime?

“Technology and digital skills are in high demand, right across the board - regardless of industry. We’re seeing candidates on average receiving 2.7 job offers, so those with the skills are in high demand and have the benefit of getting the best job, the best salary and the best benefits.”

Kevin Alexander, Managing Director of leading recruitment agency Adecco Australia says, “The top skills which employers see as rising in prominence in the lead up to 2025 include critical thinking and analysis as well as problem-solving, and skills in self-management such as active learning, resilience, stress tolerance and flexibility.” These, he stresses, are also transferable skills, meaning you can take these with you and use them in any role and in any sector. “Digital skills will become even more important than they already are. Having a general knowledge of digital platforms and digital tools as a minimum will be a prerequisite for any

He goes on to stress that, “It’s still really important to note that skills in the “pink collar sector”, such as age care workers, nurses and teachers who have human to human contact and are care focusses will continue to increase and demand will remain high for some time.” To illustrate this projection, childcare advocates and those working to boost the number of mothers in the workforce have welcomed a $5bn boost to the sector that the New South Wales government will use to target areas with a shortage of places. The premier, Dominic Perrottet, described the policy as a “once-in-ageneration reform” that would create 47,000 extra childcare spots and eventually drive $17bn in economic activity per year. The state will spend an initial $775m over four years, and up to $5bn over a decade, to encourage childcare centres

to expand into areas with limited access to centres or where a shortage of childcare places exist. However, no matter the industry, Alexander believes work-based learning is still the best way to learn new skills. “In work-based learning programs, the people trained can get the experience employers are actively seeking and gain the specific skills and credentials they need to enter and succeed in their careers.” “As the youth population represents today about 17 per cent of the global population, meaning 1.2 billion people, and is expected to grow to 1.3 billion by 2030, it is necessary to provide the youth access to training for the thousands of new jobs expected to appear by the same timeline.” The key, he says, is to never stop learning. “People lose around 40 per cent of their skills every three years so without upskilling, they become obsolete in under a decade, so the skills that helped you land your first job won’t help you get your future job. Recruiters and hiring managers are finding that past experience is not the best predictor of future job performance. Particularly in an age where so many new roles require a new array of skills.”

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More often than not, it’s what’s inside that makes an incredible police officer. Those things in your life that you’ve learnt and experienced, your personal values and what you want to achieve — those are the very things that could make you the perfect cop.

orking with the Queensland Police Service (QPS), promises to be an exciting, rewarding and challenging career. From Birdsville to Bamaga, our officers serve the community across right across our state. The QPS is searching for applicants who seek purpose, direction and meaning from their careers. If you’re interested in a job where no two days are ever the same, that’s rewarding and challenging with plenty of career options, you might just be made to be Queensland police officer.

Meet Senior Constable Steph Hancock Even when former Jillaroos captain and 17-time State of Origin rugby league star Steph Hancock was out kicking goals, she always knew she was made to be a cop. “Growing up in Killarney, Queensland, one of the local police officers told me I’d make a great officer when I grew up, and that just stuck with me. He was a bit of a role model for me.”

Are you made to be a Queensland Police Officer?

By age 25 she had applied to the QPS and has never looked back — 14 years later, Senior Constable Hancock has blended her two passions, signing a new contract with the Gold Coast Titans while juggling her full-time policing career. “As an officer, every day is so different. The idea of sitting down at a desk all day bores me to tears — I can’t sit still! I love that I can be active and on my feet while being out in the community helping people. It’s tough sometimes, being a police officer, but it’s so rewarding to be able to make a positive impact on people’s lives.” Senior Constable Hancock has always loved being part of a team, and the sense of camaraderie that comes

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along with it. She says that as an officer and a rugby player, you need to trust your fellow teammates inside and out. “If you love playing team sports, I think you’re made for policing. You’re resilient, you’re switched on — you’ve got trust in those around you and you’re ready to bring your A-game. These are all qualities that make a great cop.” As a police officer, Senior Constable Hancock’s work has allowed her to travel and work in some amazing places across Queensland. “Mt Isa, Barcaldine, Cunnamulla, Cloncurry — you name it, I’ve probably been there. There are so many opportunities to get out into the regions. “We always bang on about how rewarding policing is, but it really is. If you want to help people, this is the place to be.”

Meet Senior Constable Ellysha Geddes

requirements meant I had to do further study before applying. I started working at a local supermarket and soon realised I had a knack for identifying shoplifters and retrieving stolen property from them.” After her manager told her she’d be a good cop, Senior Constable Geddes decided to follow her dream. She went to an information night, made her application which was successful and eight weeks later she started at the police academy. After completing her First Year Constable program in Townsville, she was posted to Mount Isa. “I wanted to experience something outside of my comfort zone and the region had cultural significance to me. Mount Isa was the closest place to where my great grandmother was from.” Spending four years in the district, Senior Constable Geddes became a police prosecutor, which allowed her to visit nearby stations for monthly court.

A proud First Nations woman with ties to Larrakia people, Ellysha Geddes was just nine years old when she realised she wanted to be a police officer, but after finishing high school, she wasn’t sure if she was the right fit for the job.

“Nothing beats the feeling of winning a summary hearing — I’ve definitely had a lot of ‘pinch me’ moments. I remember stopping an offender from escaping court in my skirt and high heels – though I had to take my heels off so I could chase them. That’s one of my funniest memories.”

“I’d always been fascinated with the police, but at the time entry

Senior Constable Geddes said her experience working in the state’s

remote and regional communities was rewarding and provided many opportunities. Following her time in Mount Isa, she moved to Rockhampton and now lives in Cunnamulla with her partner and children. “I love living in remote places and being part of the community. If I go to a job, community members always have my back and make sure I’m treated with respect. I have a great work/life balance, cost of living is generally lower, and there are so many opportunities for adventure.” Soon to graduate with a Bachelor of Laws degree, Senior Constable Geddes has her sights set on improving the justice process in regional areas. “I think a lot of people like myself wonder whether they have what it takes, or if they would even be eligible. I really encourage them to give it a shot and take it in small steps. Go to an information night, put in an application, talk to your friends and family — it’s worth giving it a try.”

Do you think you’re made for it? If policing sounds like your ideal career path, visit policerecruit.com.au to take the eligibility quiz and see if you’ve got what it takes to become a police officer. There’s never been a better time to join the QPS.

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The unexpected jobs those with spinal injuries are thriving in By Kate Calacouras

wenty-three years ago Tim McCallum was in hospital after a diving accident, unable to envision what his future might look like. Now a quadraplegic, he was unaware of the huge challenges to accessibility and employment opportunities he would soon experience. Nor did he understand that he could still live a hugely fulfilling life. Today the talented Queensland singer and father is a peer support worker for Spinal Life Australia, where he offers support to newly-injured people and helps them adjust to their new normal. “I remember my peers when I had my injury. If I can give the smallest thing back to someone else, it’s like full circle. “There is an element of grieving,” Mr McCallum said, explaining the enormity of comprehending just how they will move forward is one of the biggest hurdles.

back to the same position may not be realistic.” But he explained that for thousands of job categories, people with disabilities were perfectly capable of working, and that government-funded programs can help employers adjust equipment. “I’ve seen farmers completely redo tractors and utes and all kinds of farming equipment so someone with a spinal cord injury can go out and drive the harvester. Or mechanics completely re-do their workshops so someone with a spinal cord injury to get under the car. I’m never surprised in the advances in technology for workers.” But he explained a far bigger hurdle back into the workforce was people’s attitudes. “I think employers see disability as a negative. They think of a lack of production. That’s a myth. The statistics show people with a disability are more productive in their roles. People with a disability are actually more reliable as workers.”

He said some people may have to look at new career opportunities.

Nathan Kirby, Accenture’s Disability Inclusion Program Lead said with 2.1 million Australians of working age living with a disability, the cost of not employing them was actually hurting businesses.

“If you were a bricklayer — how can you see yourself as a bricklayer as a quadraplegic? The realities of going

Mr Kirby, who also has a spinal

“(After a spinal injury) you are going to have to be flexible and adaptable and pursue your goals in different ways.”

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“If an organisation is thinking they can’t hire — they’re stereotyping.”

injury, said one of the biggest things employers can do is start from a presumption of competence. “I think raising expectation of what people with disability can do (is crucial).” He explained smaller businesses are more agile, with a potential employee often able to meet the owner, and explain what equipment they might need to do their job, which can be funded by government programs. “Larger companies should have a system to centrally fund to pay for adjustments. To give people the confidence to ask for things like a standing desk (which can reduce back pain). Sometimes it’s just a change in attitude that could benefit someone. If you do make the change that person will be more effective.” He said with the extreme difficulty in recruiting talented workers, it is in the best interest of employers to be more inclusive. “The unemployment rate for people with disability is effectively double (the national rate). We need to do something different. Metrics around recruitment and retention are a key component of this, especially in large businesses “There’s 2.1 million people with disabilities in a working age population. It’s a massive group. If you’re not hiring from that talent pool then you are missing out.”

Challenge accepted: Community services jobs and skills for the future

reat news for students and job seekers looking for career opportunities earmarked for growth — more than one in four new jobs in the next five years will be in the Health Care and Social Assistance sector, according to the latest data released by The National Skills Commission (NCS). Already the long-standing industry leader in providing new jobs in Australia, the Care sector is projecting the largest employment growth over the coming years (increasing 15.8 per cent to November 2026), with Aged and Disabled Carer jobs expected to increase the most (up 28 per cent).

Accustomed to growth and change, Challenge Community Services was founded in 1958 by a small group of parents who had children with disabilities but there was no service available to them, and now employs Serv ic than 1000 people across morees NSW and south-east QLD providing support to thousands of people.

As we seek to prepare ourselves for jobs of the future, automation and technology are often highlighted, however, there is an increased demand across all industries for distinctly “human skills” that machines can’t do: care, cognitive ability, and communication skills. Employees at Challenge say the doing Support Work has helped me in people-focused nature of their my studies and how I might use those industry and organisation helps skills in the classroom in the future,” nurture and grow those valuable skills, Hayden said. providing the opportunity to develop “Learning to be patient and putting and apply empathy and emotional in the effort to build relationships intelligence (EQ), collaboration and and create meaningful connections Disability Services teamwork, interpersonal skills and with clients, can make the world of adaptability and flexibility. difference.” Hayden Beaman has enjoyed being a Disability Support Worker with Challenge Community Services for nearly five years and says helping clients with a disability to develop their individual skills to live more autonomously, has also taught him valuable life skills. “I’m currently studying to become a teacher and can already see how

We all have dreams. Whether it’s to land a good job, live independently or be part of a secure, loving family, we all want to belong. If you want to help others meet their goals and support them when life gets tough, visit www.challengecommunity.org.au or call 1800 769 129 to find out more about the wide range of career opportunities with Challenge.

Disability Services

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Get ready to make friends and become involved in the community. Join the Connexions program near you.

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Challenge Community Services Connexions program will help you learn the skills to achieve independence, create inclusion, develop choice and make friends! Contact Challenge Community Services for more information:

1800 679 129 info@challengecommunity.org.au challengecommunity.org.au Get ready to

make friends and become involved in the community. Join the Connexions program near you.

Build a Life Changing Career with Challenge Community Services

Careers with Challenge Community Services are focused on building relationships and supporting people to live their best life. If you’re looking for a job that is highly rewarding, always evolving and challenging, you could be perfect for the care and support industry.

1800 679 129 info@challengecommunity.org.au challengecommunity.org.au

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he Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF) is the largest and longest established fitness Registered Training Organisation (RTOID: 121508) in Australia, renowned for its flagship Master Trainer Program™, the most recognised fitness qualification in the industry. With campuses located in and around every major Australian city, more people, including many of Australia’s leading industry professionals, choose to get qualified with AIF than at any other provider. Students can study online or through a blended modality which is made up of face-to-face and online learning. Both provide our students with the necessary knowledge and experience to ensure they are industry ready. The world-class IGNITE platform,

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developed by AIF for its online offerings, provides direct person-toperson contact, support and guidance from highly rated and experienced Coaches. AIF’s purpose-built teaching facilities and access to high quality gyms, enable students to combine face-to-face learning with hands-on practical experience. AIF offers a comprehensive Career Head-Start program, which helps students connect with employers and secure their Trainer Experience placement with more than 1300 Career Partners. For these reasons, AIF has the highest number of employed graduates in the fitness

AIF also owns NETWORK, an ongoing fitness education platform, which provides online professional development courses and resources for those who have graduated and are now working in the fitness industry. This enables AIF to not only launch fitness professionals into the industry, but also support their ongoing career success. What are you waiting for? Follow in the footsteps of Kayla Instines, Emily Seehbom, Jenna Douros, Matt Shirvington, Dasha Gaivoronski and Tim Robards and set your fitness career up for success. To equip yourself with the most recognised health and fitness education in the industry, contact the team at AIF today at fitness.edu.au or 1300 669 669.

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WE ENCOURAGE OUR STUDENTS TO REACH THEIR GOALS IN LIFE, HEALTH AND MOVEMENT

A CAREER THAT CHANGES LIVES COMPLETE PILATES MATWORK THE ULTIMATE REFORMER SERIES STUDIO REHABILITATION SERIES DIPLOMA OF POLESTAR PILATES COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTION METHOD 10828NAT PO L E STA RP I L AT E S. EDU. AU THE WORLD'S MOST RESPECTED PILATES TEACHERS

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ilates is one of the world’s most popular forms of exercise.

On the surface, Pilates is a lowimpact approach that focuses on functional strength. That is, real strength for activities that real people do each day. From sports to dancing, to sitting at computers without neck pain, Pilates improves our performance and abilities. Creator Joseph Pilates, was a gymnast, wrestler, weight lifter and circus performer. He originally developed his exercises to help rehabilitate injured soldiers during WWII. After the war, JP moved to New York City and started working with dancers, who have to look good on stage, move freely without pain and exude vitality. Pilates believed that physical and mental health were closely connected and is famously quoted as saying “physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness”; Suffice to say, JP’s holistic approach worked. More than a type of exercise, Pilates is an attitude. One that promotes mindfulness and leads to overall wellbeing. It doesn’t make muscles tight and bulky, it makes them long and supple, so we can be more flexible, more powerful and more effective in everything we do.

Who is Polestar Pilates? Polestar Pilates was started in 1992 and has since become one of the world’s most respected and bestrecognised qualifications. Polestar is a global Pilates community of educators, mentors, training centres, studios and teachers in over 50 countries. Qualifying with Polestar opens doors to more than teaching opportunities. From your first day, you are welcomed into this community with a depth of training and support that is unique to

Polestar. What makes us different is our holistic, science-based approach, with one unifying message, just like Joseph Pilates intended: “movement heals”.

What training courses do you offer? The Complete Matwork Series If you want to start teaching Pilates classes, The Complete Pilates Matwork Series is the place to start. You will learn the Pilates principles and Polestar’s approach to functional movement. Plus topics like program design, exercise sequencing, techniques, cueing, and everything you need to teach mat classes with confidence. It takes three months to complete the face-to-face training, with one weekend per month for three months. Plus another 80 hours of self-mastery and 50 hours of apprentice teaching. When you pass your written and practical exam, you graduate as a Polestar Certified Matwork Pilates Teacher.

The Ultimate Reformer Series If you would like to teach Reformer classes, The Ultimate Reformer Series is the pinnacle course. You will learn the Pilates principles, program design, exercise sequencing, techniques, cueing practices, and everything you need to teach private or group reformer in any environment. It takes three months to complete the face-to-face training, with one weekend per month for three months. Plus another 75 hours of self-mastery and 50 hours of apprentice teaching. When you pass your written and practical exam, you graduate as a Polestar Certified Reformer Pilates Teacher.

The Studio Rehab Series Learn how to assess your clients and restore functional movement based on the Pilates studio equipment. It’s the most in-depth of the three courses, going into exercise prescription for all ages and levels of ability with the widest range of equipment. It takes seven months to complete the face-to-face training, an online component and one weekend per month for six months. Plus another 170 hours of self-mastery and 80 hours of apprentice teaching. When you pass your written and practical exam, you graduate as a Polestar Certified Studio Rehab Pilates Teacher.

Diploma of Polestar Pilates Comprehensive Instruction Method 1028NAT Depending on your career path, you might choose to just one course, or if you’re interested in the Diploma level qualification, complete all three courses and apply to upgrade. The Diploma opens doors to more career opportunities as it is the most highly respected qualification.

Who can do the course? There are no prerequisites for our courses, just a passion for good health and wellbeing. Students who have attended about 25 Pilates classes before they enroll find they have an easier time with the curriculum.

Job Opportunities Polestar Pilates teachers find work in Pilates studios, gyms, Physiotherapy practices, teach privately at clients’ homes, and often start their own Pilates studio or business. The Polestar qualification is recognised and respected in studios all over the world. We are always available to talk through your options and provide career insights.

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A vision for dance Australian Dance Vision has helped to raise the bar when it comes to dance education.

hen it comes to articulating the true essence of dance, Martha Graham said it best when she stated “dance is the hidden language of the soul”. Such an enriching artform, ensuring your organisation is employing the best possible practices when it comes to helping students hone their craft is imperative. Thankfully, Australian Dance Vision (ADV) has revolutionised the industry of dance education through a clear and unwavering focus. Founded by Sydney dance teacher Penny Lancaster, ADV has evolved to become a premiere provider of professional dance education and syllabus covering classical ballet, jazz, tap and contemporary dance styles. The founding principles of ADV were built upon the premise that there was a real need for a comprehensive assessment program which was Australian owned and developed, plus allowing students to develop at their own pace. “ADV is unique as it incorporates learning worksheets at each level and style of dance, as well as improved multi-facet marking criteria geared to modern pedagogic standards,” Founding Chairman and Curriculum Director Penny Lancaster said. “In this way students gain knowledge of dance history, anatomy, nutrition, physical limitations, alongside musical rhythms, mime, choreography and partnership dance. “This knowledge counts towards their overall mark and whether they receive a Pass, Pass Plus, Commended, Highly Commended, Honours or Honours with Distinction!” The mission of the organisation is unfaltering, and addresses the dancer as a complete person and along with the fundamentals of Classical, Tap, Contemporary and Jazz technique,

young dancers are taught elements of body science, nutrition and personal awareness; as well as dance history, musicality and are encouraged to improvise and choreograph. Students are assessed in a nonthreatening environment which adds to the overall appeal of the ADV syllabus and ensures the confidence of dancers well into the future. Dance teachers welcome this approach as students progress at their own rate and in keeping with their physical, emotional and cognitive development. “The dance-examination “hot house” day can often cause stage-fright in a young person, so they don’t perform at their best on the day,” Penny said. “Consequently, the objective of ADV assessment marking system embodies a moderating scoring input from the teacher based on observation over time of the candidate’s attitude and ability, thus an examinee who stumbles in front of the assessor or is unwell on the day is not unfairly penalised.” ADV employs a novel approach to dance education which, coupled with new concepts of objective technical examination together with music, video and open marking systems, allows students to be taught in a holistic manner as an individual. This versatile approach has been instrumental in cementing Australian Dance Vision’s reputation as an organisation which produces wellrounded, young dancers ready for careers in and beyond pure dance. And while Penny and John have already achieved so much through Australian Dance Vision, they show

no signs of slowing down, with grand plans for the organisation over the next five years and into the future. “The goal is for ADV to grow and for students to continue to love their dance and be inspired and knowledgeable about their art form while, at the same time, preparing students to learn about the realities of the professional life of a dancer and to avoid eating disorders and disappointments along the way,” Penny said. “This way, we build an informed audience from an early age for our wonderful dance companies such as The Australian Ballet and The Sydney Dance Company and others. “I would love to re-introduce the Ballet d’Action Dance company as a model for dance outreach. Bd’A won wide acceptance and acclaim from its audiences and participants as a contribution to dance education via real performance in front of live audiences, thus complementing the somewhat sterile and restricted exposure offered by the simulated “audience” environment of examinations and eisteddfods. “We are already pioneering seamless integration of distance learning via broadband video and communications technologies in readiness for the final roll out of the government’s NBN. “ADV’s policy is to use best-inclass secure technology to tame the tyranny of Australian distance (which equates to cost and restricted opportunities) so that small, rural and regional dance schools and students have equitable access to the same resources as their city-based colleagues.”

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