Career planning is a crucial part of preparing for work and finding a job.
It is estimated that 80% of jobs are never advertised, so it is essential to explore all options and develop your own strategies.
Read our advice and find further resources on:
When researching, these questions can help guide your search:
You can find answers to these questions and more from:
Search for part-time, holiday or graduate positions on VU's Learning Hub job board.
Current students and recent graduates can access free career planning resources, including:
Jobs are often filled through word of mouth, internal recruitment and direct applications to employers. This is know as the 'hidden job market'.
Networks can play an important part in job hunting and the ongoing development of your career.
Your network might include:
Professional associations represent most industries and occupations - sometimes more than one. They perform many functions, including:
We recommend you join a professional association and get involved. Student membership is usually offered at a reduced rate.
Being a member means you can:
Graduate programs specially designed for graduates, and usually last 1 to 3 years.
They are offered by organisations with an interest in developing and training graduates for management roles.
Successful applicants work in various areas of the business, in blocks of time known as 'rotations', to foster a better understanding of how the whole organisation works.
The application process can be quite competitive, as graduate programs are in high demand. Applications open begin early in the year around February to April for positions starting in the following year.
Specific information about graduate programs can usually be found on employer websites, including application open and closing dates, and eligibility requirements. Positions are generally advertised online.
Workplace rights for employees in Victoria (and Australia) include:
The websites below have detailed information about your rights and who to contact if you think they are being breached.
Fair Work is an Australian Government independent statutory office that can give you information and advice about your workplace rights and obligations.
Its services are free to all workers and employers in Australia.
The Fair Work Commission is Australia's national workplace relations tribunal.
If you are covered by the federal workplace relations system, visit Fair Work Commission website to find information on your current wages and conditions.
