Careers News – Thursday 19th February

Dates to Diarise in Term 1

Victorian Careers and Employment Expo – 19 to 21 March 2026

What the Career Team can assist you with?

Apprenticeships Information	Résumé Writing Skills
Cadetships & Traineeships	SATs and ACTs
Career Expos	Scholarship Opportunities
Careers Testing – Morrisby Profile	Subject Selection Counselling
GAP Year Opportunities	TAFE Courses & Programs
Individual Interviews	Tertiary Application Process – Interstate
International Study	University Courses & Programs
Interstate Universities	University Extension Studies
Interview Skills	VCAA Information
Open Days	VET in Schools
Overseas Exchange Programs	VTAC Process
Part-time & Casual Job Opportunities	Weekly Career News Updates

Tax File Number (TFN)

Every student will require a tax file number when they start work (part-time and full-time) and all students planning on a tertiary education require one when they start too.

Importantly, current Year 12 students are reminded that they cannot enroll in a CSP (Commonwealth Support Place) course at university without a Tax File Number, so it is worthwhile getting an application submitted early!

Students must apply for a TFN online and have their identity verified through an interview at a participating Australia Post office.

To apply and also to find out about participating Post Offices, visit TFN Application.

University Clinical Aptitude Test

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is an admissions test used by the UCAT ANZ Consortium of universities in Australia and New Zealand for their medical, dental, and clinical science degree programs. Universities requiring the UCAT are listed at this link – Universities requiring the UCAT but also listed below.

Students intending to apply for courses requiring the UCAT at any of these universities are reminded that they will need to book a test.

Students who are preparing for entry into any of these courses are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the format of the test at UCAT Test Format and the practice tests and preparation material provided at UCAT Preparation when available.

Bookings will open on 3 March 2026 and close 15 May 2026. The testing dates will be from 1 July 2026 to 5 August 2026.

Find out more at UCAT.

Institutions that will require the UCAT are:

Adelaide University	Medicine, Dental Surgery, Oral Health
Central Queensland University	Medical Science (Regional Medical Pathway provisional entry to UQ)
Charles Sturt University	Dental Science, Medicine (Joint Program in Medicine)
Curtin University	Medicine
Flinders University	Clinical Sciences / Medicine
Griffith University	Dental Health Science (compulsory), Medical Science (optional)
Monash University	Medicine
University of Newcastle / University of New England	Joint Medical Program
The University of New South Wales	Medicine
University of Notre Dame	Medicine Pathway
The University of Queensland	Medicine (provisional entry pathway), Dental Science
University of Southern Queensland	Medicine Pathway (provisional entry to UQ MD, Darling Downs-South West Medical Pathway)
University of the Sunshine Coast	Medicine Science (optional) (provisional entry pathway to MD program at Griffith University)
University of Tasmania	Medicine
The University of Western Australia	Doctor of Medicine via Bachelor of Biomedicine (Specialised) Doctor of Dental Medicine via Bachelor of Biomedicine (Specialised)
Western Sydney University	Medicine (Joint Program in Medicine)
The University of Auckland (NZ)	Medicine
University of Otago NZ	Medicine

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 include 2,191 universities across 115 countries and territories.
Below are the top 15 universities in Australia, with two leading universities in Victoria.

Australia Rank 2026	World University Rank 2026	University	State/territory
1	37	University of Melbourne	Victoria
2	=53	University of Sydney	New South Wales
3	=58	Monash University	Victoria
4	=73	Australian National University	Australian Capital Territory
5	79	UNSW Sydney	New South Wales
6	=80	The University of Queensland	Queensland
7	133	Adelaide University	South Australia
8	=145	University of Technology Sydney	New South Wales
9	153	The University of Western Australia	Western Australia
10	=166	Macquarie University	New South Wales
11	201-250	Deakin University	Victoria
12	201-250	Queensland University of Technology	Queensland
13	201-250	University of Wollongong	New South Wales
14	251-300	Curtin University	Western Australia
15	251-300	Griffith University	New South Wales

To find out more about the Times Higher Education World Universities Rankings, visit Best Universities in Australia and World Ranking of Australian Universities.

News from The Defence Forces

ADF GAP Year

The ADF Gap Year program provides an opportunity for young Australians, who have finished Year 12 (or equivalent) and are aged between 17 and 24, to experience military training and lifestyle whilst gaining new skills and pay over their Gap Year. The life skills and job training that students acquire during their Gap Year experience will be valuable regardless of what career they ultimately undertake.

Gap Year opportunities are available in the Navy, Army, and Air Force. This is a useful link to browse – What is an ADF Gap Year?

News from Monash University

MySCI Science Holiday Program

MYSci is a three-day science program specifically designed for students who are in Year 11 and 12 in 2026. Delivered at Monash University’s Clayton Campus, the program offers participants a unique opportunity to engage deeply with science in a university research environment.

This program schedule will include:

hands-on workshops
access to state-of-the-art teaching facilities
opportunity to meet research scientists and academic staff
guided exploration of potential science and STEM career pathways
activities with the Young Scientists of Australia
structured social activities

Date: Wednesday 8 – Friday 10 April 2026
Location: Monash Science Precinct, Clayton Campus Monash University

Cost: $125 per student

Places are limited so register soon at MySCI Science 2026.

Bachelor of Criminology and Policing

Crime is a complex phenomenon, which requires it to be viewed from various perspectives.
In a joint venture with Victoria Police, the Bachelor of Criminology and Policing is the only course of its kind in Victoria.

This course will provide students with the chance to apply to join the Victoria Police and if successful, continue their studies at the Victoria Police Academy, where they will gain practical experience and go on to work in the police force.

How is this different from the Bachelor of Criminology? In the Bachelor of Criminology and Policing, students complete the same units as the ones offered in the Bachelor of Criminology, plus, they complete a Policing unit. For a comparison, take a look at the course maps for the Bachelor of Criminology and Policing and the Bachelor of Criminology.
Graduate career opportunities include Advocacy, Anti-corruptions, Attorney-General’s departments, Corrections, Courts, Crime prevention, Department of Justice, Government agencies, Human rights, Juvenile justice, Legal support, Non-government agencies, Police, Policy development, Social welfare.

The VCE requirements for entry are: Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL. An additional entry requirement is the submission of the Supplementary Form providing information about interests and suitability for the course.

News from Deakin University

Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence
Gain the skills necessary to design, develop, and evolve software solutions that takes advantage of the latest advances in artificial intelligence.

Deakin’s Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, develop and evolve software solutions that harness the latest advances in artificial intelligence (AI). Students get hands-on experience developing AI-driven software solutions with the support of academics who are leaders in this emerging field. Deakin’s world-class research in AI feeds directly into its classrooms, ensuring what students learn is at the cutting edge of industry expectations and capabilities.

Students have access to fully equipped computer labs with the latest software and technologies, ensuring they graduate with the specialist skills to design and build the intelligent systems of the future. Students also get to develop in-demand skills by working alongside experienced AI specialists during a professional work placement.

Ultimately, this course focuses on developing skills in data science, data engineering, and machine learning. As a graduate, students will be well-equipped to work on the design, development and operation of AI-driven software solutions.

Scholarships

The University of Melbourne – The Hansen Scholarship for 2027
Each year we recognise talented students from around Australia who have demonstrated resilience to adversity, and a commitment to supporting others.

The Hansen Scholarship Program was first introduced in 2020, and it offers talented students from around Australia a generous package of accommodation, financial support, mentoring and pastoral care. Valued at over $100,000, the Hansen Scholarship Program aspires to nurture and significantly expand the horizons of Australian students who may otherwise struggle to access a high-quality university education. Eligibility criteria includes: the applicant must experience financial circumstances that present a challenge to attending The University of Melbourne (applicant or family receive Centrelink benefits).

Selection is based on:

Track record of academic excellence and a commitment to academic success in university studies
Demonstrated ability to achieve success in the face of adversity and overcome obstacles
Demonstrated ability to apply skills and strengths towards activities which benefit others
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team and lead those around you
Likelihood of thriving as a Hansen Scholar and actively contributing to the Hansen Scholarship Program

Benefits of the scholarship include:

A standard room for 52 weeks each year, at no charge, for the standard full-time, three-year undergraduate degree at Little Hall residence in Lincoln Square South
A living allowance of $4200 per year for the duration of the scholarship
Full fee remission for asylum seekers who would otherwise have to pay international fees
A one-time grant of up to $4000 to support an approved activity for the Scholar’s development such as an international exchange, an international subject, an internship or similar role
Access to pastoral care and academic programs available to all students at Little Hall as well as a tailored program of enrichment activities, mentoring and support exclusively for Hansen Scholars
Priority access to graduate accommodation at Little Hall should the Hansen Scholar wish to pursue graduate studies at Melbourne after completing their undergraduate degree
Next Steps funding after completion of the scholar’s undergraduate degree (competitive process to apply for up to $25,000 for a career-related activity)

Applications open on 2 February 2026, and close on 30 March 2026.

Find out more, including answers to FAQs, at The Hansen Scholarship Program.

Australian National University – Tuckwell Scholarship for 2027

The Tuckwell Scholarship Program at the ANU is the most transformational undergraduate scholarship program in Australia. A Tuckwell is not just about a students’ intellect. It is also about their desire and determination to use their natural abilities to realise their full potential so that they can make a difference in the world. Up to 25 talented and motivated students from across the country are awarded a Tuckwell, giving them with the opportunity to realise their potential by providing them with financial support, personal enrichment, and development opportunities. All up one could say, this is no ordinary scholarship!

All eligible applicants are considered against four criteria:

Academic potential and achievements;
Other significant achievements of any type;
Demonstration of the Tuckwell Attributes; and
Connection and commitment to Australia.

Tuckwell Scholar students receive:

$27,600 per annum (2026 rate) (increasing annually) for the length of your undergraduate degree program (studying full-time), to cover on-campus residential costs, books and general living expenses.
a one-off payment of $1,500 relocation grant for first year Scholars.
guaranteed access to ANU-approved student accommodation.
travel allowances to assist with your move to Canberra and to support two annual return journeys (e.g. airfares) between your home and the University for each year of your degree.
an allowance to help cover the transport costs for your parents to attend Commencement Weekend at the start of the program, and
an ANU Sports Centre membership.

Applications will open on 2 March 2026, and close on 13 April 2026. Until applications open, interested students are encouraged to read the Tuckwell 2027 Application Guide, to familiarise themselves with the application process, and discuss their interest, suitability and eligibility for the Scholarship with a teacher or the Careers Practitioner.

Career in Non-Emergency Patient Transport

Ambulance Victoria and Pro-Medic Services Victoria (PSV) provides Non-Emergency Patient Transport (NEPT) in Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria to both public and private hospitals, diagnostic facilities, and private individuals.

On a recent SEEK advertisement for a role as a Patient Transport Officer (PTO), details of the key duties of the PTO were published, and include:

Ensuring full compliance with organisational policies and procedures
Acting as the primary carer in the assessment, treatment and transport management of patients
Performing as part of a team to deliver high quality treatment in a timely, safe and efficient manner
Ensuring compliance with patient care documentation requirements
Adhering to all relevant regulations and clinical practice
Maintaining currency of qualifications by undertaking training and updates as required
Maintaining of work areas

The advertisement goes on to state that the successful candidate should be able to demonstrate:

Ability to take a leadership role within the team to ensure high standards of patient care and safety
Clear communication and good interpersonal skills
Able to work reasonable additional hours if required
Physically capable of performing patient transfers

PTO’s are not paramedics but, rather, they fulfill the vital role of transporting non-critical patients to hospitals, clinics, etc. To become a Patient Transport Officer (PTO), one needs to complete a minimum of that HLT31120 Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport. This course is offered at a few tertiary institutions in Victoria, as well as the Australian Paramedical College and St. John Ambulance Victoria, which is one of the largest providers of Non-Emergency Patient Transport in Victoria. Many graduates of this diploma choose to work part-time or casually in the industry while pursuing further study at university to become a paramedic.

Career in Veterinary Nursing

SEEK * states that in addition to assisting with medical care, Veterinary Nurses provide vital information and support to pet owners and clients.

Some of the tasks a Veterinary Nurse might have to do include:

Liaising with pet owners and clients on the level of care needed for optimum animal welfare.
Assisting in medical procedures by sterilising surgical equipment, administering drugs and injections, and holding and maintaining animals during operations.
Assisting in the day-to-day maintenance of the veterinary facilities by cleaning kennels and cleaning up after animals and surgeries.
Veterinary Nurses commonly have a passion for animals and their welfare.

Students keen on finding out more might like to watch this Career Insights of a Veterinary Nurse.

You can find more information at * SEEK – Veterinary Nursing

Veterinary Nurses need to have a minimum of a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, although qualifications can include diplomas and bachelor degrees.

Some of these can be found at Box Hill Institute, Melbourne Polytechnic, and La Trobe University.

Aviation Courses in Victoria in 2026

The aviation industry is not only about pilots and flight attendants, but also includes aircraft manufacturing, ground crew, management, customer service, cargo and logistics…the list goes on. Below are a number of courses offered in Victoria.
For a comprehensive list of all courses, their majors, and double degrees on offer, visit VTAC.

INSTITUTION	COURSE	MAJOR STUDIES IN 2026
RMIT	Associate Degree in Aviation (Professional Pilots)	Aircraft general knowledge, Aviation, Aviation (commercial pilot licence), Aviation (flight rules and air law), Aviation (general navigation), Aviation (instructor rating), Aviation (instrument rating), Aviation (instrumentation and control), Aviation (law), Aviation industry environment, Aviation quality systems, Flight training.
	Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot Training)	Aviation safety, Piloting.
	Bachelor of Applied Science (Aviation)	This course has two specialised streams: a) Aviation operations and management stream b) Piloting. Aviation, Aviation management, Aviation operations.
	Bachelor of Applied Science (Aviation)/Bachelor of Business	Aviation, Aviation Operations, Aviation management, Business & Technology, Business Information Systems, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Global Business, Innovation & Enterprise, Logistics & Supply Chain, Management, Marketing, People & Organisation, Social Impact.
SWINBURNE	Bachelor of Aviation	Airline business strategy, Airline operations management, Aviation capstone 1: project planning, Aviation capstone 2: project implementation, Aviation legal and regulatory framework, Aviation project: blue sky ideas, Aviation project: managing implementation, Aviation safety and risk management, Essential aviation analytical skills, The global aviation system.
	Bachelor of Aviation and Piloting	Airline business strategy, Airline operations management, Aviation capstone 1: project planning, Aviation capstone 2: project implementation, Aviation legal and regulatory framework, Aviation project: blue sky ideas, Aviation project: managing implementation, Aviation safety and risk management, Commercial pilot licence practicum, Essential aviation analytical skills, Private pilot licence practicum, The global aviation system.
	Bachelor of Aviation Management OR Bachelor of Aviation Management/ Bachelor of Applied Innovation **	Aviation operations, Uncrewed aircraft systems ** All the above majors + Applied Innovation
	Bachelor of Aviation/Bachelor of Business	Accounting, Airline business strategy, Airline operations management, Aviation capstone 1: project planning, Aviation capstone 2: project implementation, Aviation legal and regulatory framework, Aviation project: blue sky ideas, Aviation project: managing implementation, Aviation safety and risk management, Business administration, Business analytics and analysis, Entrepreneurship, Essential aviation analytical skills, Finance , Human resource management, Logistics and supply chain management, Management , Marketing, The global aviation system.
	Bachelor of Aviation Management/Bachelor of Business	Accounting, Aviation operations, Business administration, Business analytics and analysis, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human resource management, Logistics and supply chain management, Marketing, Uncrewed aircraft operations.
WILLIAM ANGLISS INSTITUTE	Certificate III in Aviation (Cabin Crew)	Customer Service on an Aircraft, First Aid, Inflight food and beverage service, Pre-and Post flight Cabin and Security checks, Pre-flight customer service, Responding to Emergency situations, Responsible Service of Alcohol, Safety and security.

Cyber Security Courses in Victoria in 2026

One explanation for what cybersecurity might be is that cyber security is the protection of internet-connected systems, including hardware, software and data, from cyberattacks. In a computing context, security comprises cyber security and physical security – both are used by enterprises to protect against unauthorized access to data centres and other computerized systems.
Note: Cyber Security is often also offered as a major or minor in Computer Science and IT degrees.

Below is a list of a number of courses, and students are encouraged to browse VTAC for a comprehensive list of all courses – including double-degrees – available.

INSTITUTION	COURSE NAME	VCE PREREQs	MAJOR STUDIES IN 2026
Box Hill Institute	Certificate IV in Cyber Security	n/a, but a Pre-Training Review and Language, Literacy & Numeracy Test	Cloud Services, Cyber Legislation, Ethical Hacking, Incident Management, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Programming, Risk Management, Security Monitoring, Website Security.
Deakin University	Bachelor of Cyber Security	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.	Cyber security (IOT Security, Access control, Digital forensics, Penetration testing, Cryptography, Analytics, Risk analysis, System vulnerabilities), Network security (minor only), Security management (minor only).
Federation University	Bachelor of Information Technology (Cybersecurity)	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in any English.	Cyber Security.
Holmesglen Institute	Certificate IV in Cyber Security	n/a, but a Pre-Training Review and Language, Literacy & Numeracy Test	Australian cyber law, Cloud security, Collecting and analysing data to identify cyber threats and vulnerabilities, Cyber Security Industry Project, Cyber ethics and workplace legislation, Data forensics, Data threat analysis, Developing risk mitigation policies, Introduction to Pen Testing, Intrusion testing, Managing System Security, Network Security firewall configuration, Networking skills for Cyber Security, Programming skills for Cyber Security, Risk Management, Securing Websites, Securing virtual environments, Security monitoring & Incident response, Working and communicating in a Cyber Security Operations Centre.
La Trobe University * Also offered at La Trobe’s Sydney Campus	Bachelor of Cybersecurity	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.	Cybersecurity.
Melbourne Polytechnic	Certificate IV in Cyber Security	n/a, but must successfully complete Year 12.	Programming using Python, Networking, Penetration testing, Securing a Server, Cloud security,, Website security and Network security.
RMIT University	Bachelor of Cyber Security	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English other than EAL or at least 27 in EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: General Mathematics, Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics.	Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Bioinformatics, Blockchain Enabled Business, Blockchain Technologies, Business Analytics, Business Information Systems, CISCO Networking, Cloud Computing, Creative Computing, Cryptography, Cyber Security, Data Analysis, Data Science, Enterprise Systems Development, Entrepreneurship, Network Security. Note: the 4-year Bachelor of Cyber Security (Professional) is also offered.
Swinburne University	Bachelor of Cyber Security	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.	Cyber security ethics law and policy, IT security, Introduction to programming, Malware analysis, Network administration, Network routing principles, Network security and resilience, Networks and switching, Secure remote access networks, Web development.
Victoria University *Not Foundation Mathematics	Bachelor of Cyber Security	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics.*	Cyber security.

Animation & Gaming Degrees in Victoria in 2026

Animation and games design courses offer students a range of opportunities to be exposed to, and develop their skills in, subjects such as computer coding, computer programming, broad IT skills, simulation and modelling, computer-based 2D and 3D, interactive information design, and virtual environments, to name but a few.
Below is a list of some undergraduate degrees offered at Victorian Universities and a few Private Institutions.
For a comprehensive list of courses (including the many double-degree options) on offer at Victorian universities, TAFEs, and Private Providers, visit VTAC.

INSTITUTION	COURSE NAME	VCE PREREQ’S	MAJOR STUDIES IN 2026
DEAKIN	Film, Television and Animation	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.	Animation (major only), Animation and motion graphic (minor only), Film studies (minor only), Screen content production (minor only), Screen development, Screen production (major only), Scriptwriting (minor only), Visual effects and virtual production (minor only).
JMC ACADEMY	Creative Arts (Animation)	Satisfactory completion of a Year 12.	Animation, Animation (2D), Animation (3D), Character Design, Compositing, Concept Art, Concept Development, Creative Process, Digital Art, Digital Sculpture, Modelling (3D), Motion Capture, Motion Design, Production Art, Professional + Industry Development, Rendering, Screen Literacy, Studio Skills, Traditional Animation (2D), Visual Narrative, Visual Storytelling.
MONASH	Design	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English as an Additional Language or at least 25 in English other than EAL.	Animation, Automotive design, Collaborative design, Communication design, Computer-aided design (CAD), Design, Design theory, Digital media, Furniture design, Graphic design, Illustration, Industrial design, Interactive design, Materials technology, Product design and development, Spatial design, Transportation design, Visual communication, Web design.
RMIT	Animation and Interactive Media	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English other than EAL or at least 27 in EAL.	2D, 3D, Animation, Computer animation, Concept art, Design, Digital arts, Illustration, Imaging and sound, Motion design, Visual effects.
RMIT	Design (Games)	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English other than EAL or at least 27 in EAL.	3D, Animation, Design, Digital art, Game development and programming, Games, Graphic design.
SAE	Animation	Satisfactory completion of a Year 12.	2D and 3D Character Animation, 3D Modelling, Animation, Business and Leadership Skills, Computer-Generated Visual Effects, Drawing and Composition, Employability Skills in Screen Industry Contexts, Histories and Theories, Media and Cultural Studies, Production for Screen and Games, Project Management, Realtime and Offline Rendering, Screen Industry Best Practices, Texturing and Shaders.
SWINBURNE	Animation	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English other than EAL or at least 30 in EAL.	2D and 3D production techniques for animation, Acting for animation, Action analysis and locomotion, Advanced character design for animation, Character and environment design, Genre and the moving image, History of animation, Producing and production management, Sound design and acquisition, Writing and directing for animation.
	Games and Interactivity/Animation	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English other than EAL or at least 30 in EAL.	2D and 3D production techniques for animation, 3D modelling for objects and environments, Acting for animation, Action analysis and locomotion, Behaviour and motivation in games, Character and environment design, Character design for animation, Development and pre-production, Digital game prototyping, Genre and the moving image, History of animation, Pervasive game design, Principles of game design, Producing and production management for animation, Production and post-production, Screen writing, Sound design and acquisition, User-centred design and evaluation, Writing for interactive narratives.
	Games and Interactivity	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in English other than EAL or at least 25 in EAL.	3D modelling for objects and environments, Behaviour and motivation in games, Digital game prototyping lab, Introduction to game studies, Introduction to games production, Pervasive game design lab, Principles of game design, Sound design and acquisition, User-centred design and evaluation, Writing for interactive narratives.
UNI MELBOURNE	Fine Arts (Animation)	Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.	Animation.