Teenage Unemployment Hits New High: Where Are All the Careers Advisers?

Teen unemployment remains a persistent challenge in Australia. Many young people are finishing school without clear pathways into work, training or further study. So where is the guidance they need—and why are so many teens navigating their futures alone?

In 2024, youth unemployment (ages 15–24) hovered around 9 to 11 per cent, depending on region, with even higher rates in rural and lower socio-economic areas. One in four young Australians is underemployed, meaning they want more work than they currently have. These numbers show we still have a serious disconnect between education and career readiness.

Are Schools Equipped to Guide Students?

Recent findings from the Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA) and educational researchers like McCrindle highlight a key issue: too few schools have dedicated, full-time career advisers. Most operate part-time or juggle career guidance alongside teaching responsibilities. This limits the depth of support students receive during the crucial final years of school.

Compounding the issue is inconsistent access to reliable resources. Government career platforms such as MyFuture and the Job Outlook website have had fluctuating funding over the years. While some resources remain available, many students aren’t aware of them or lack the support to use them effectively.

Voices from the Field

Penny Morrison, a school-based careers adviser, says the shortage of time and support impacts outcomes for students: “You can have an amazing program idea, but without time or backup staff, it’s hard to implement it. Career guidance needs consistency, not just one-off sessions.”

Why Career Guidance Matters

Without expert guidance, students may make rushed or uninformed decisions—choosing courses that don’t match their interests, or enrolling with providers that don’t deliver outcomes. This is particularly concerning in a landscape where some training organisations have previously prioritised enrolment numbers over student success.

Penny also notes, “When we can’t access reliable, up-to-date career information, we’re forced to spend scarce resources just sourcing tools—rather than focusing on programs that build skills and confidence.”

Real Impact: Paolo’s Story

Paolo Garcia was 16 and unsure of his direction when a careers adviser changed his life. “I liked art, computers and geography but didn’t know where that would lead,” he says. “My adviser suggested I try visual design—even though it wouldn’t count towards my ATAR. I decided to give it a go.”

That suggestion sparked a passion. Paolo topped his class, went on to study design at university, and eventually built an award-winning career with global brands like National Geographic, ESPN and Discovery Networks. “It all started with one conversation,” he says. “That advice changed everything.”

Today’s Teens Face a Complex Future

This generation is the most digitally connected and globally aware in history—but also the most overwhelmed with post-school options. From university to apprenticeships, micro-credentials, online courses and gig work, the choices are vast and often confusing.

Effective career education can help teens:

• Understand their strengths and interests
• Explore industries with future job growth
• Build confidence and workplace readiness
• Choose meaningful education and training pathways

So Where Do We Go From Here?

To build a job-ready generation, schools need better resourcing for career programs. That includes dedicated staff, reliable tools, and strong connections to the workforce and training sector.

In the meantime, students and parents can take initiative by exploring trustworthy learning options. Online and flexible learning platforms are becoming increasingly popular—especially for young people who want to build skills outside of the traditional classroom.

Start Your Journey

If you’re unsure what path to take, why not explore a short course, certificate, or degree that aligns with your interests?

• Browse online courses across industries
• Explore career development and guidance training
• Want to help young people? Look into youth work or counselling

Good advice can change a life. If you didn’t get the guidance you needed back in school, it’s never too late to find direction—and take the first step toward work you’ll love.