This resource can support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander students through key transition stages, in particular subject selection Stage 5 into 6 and exploring post school pathways.

Schools can use the Post School Destinations and Experiences Survey – Year 12 completers and early school leavers as a guide and way of monitoring post school pathway trends. This resource will provide the assistance and guidance in accessing the right and appropriate support for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander students.

Smart and Skilled

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students can get free training in important job skills through approved training providers. This includes courses up to Certificate III level, and there’s also support for higher-level courses. To learn more, visit the Smart and Skilled website.

Scholarship, work, and study opportunities

The Aurora Foundation supports high achieving Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students to attain academic excellence at some of the most prestigious universities in the world.

Indigenous Scholarship Portal provides a list of scholarships available for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students currently studying at universities, TAFE, or registered training organisations (RTO’s).

The Charlie Perkins Scholarship Trust for students to study at the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge.

Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (IYLP) supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students living in remote or very remote areas of Australia to attend a high performing secondary school (government and non-government, day, and boarding) and/or university to complete Year 12 and/or an undergraduate degree.

GO Foundation metropolitan Sydney region. Scholarships include financial assistance for educational needs for Years 11 and 12, and access to the GO Ecosystem where students receive access to mentoring, homework support, internships, work experience and other opportunities.

Aboriginal HSC Scholarship Program Transport for NSW scholarship program for students entering year 11 or 12 who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. The Program consists of a 2-week structured work experience in each year, $2500 approved expenses to support your studies and achieve your goals, opportunities to apply for ongoing employment opportunities and mentoring through the professional team for the duration of the program.

Indigenous Youth Mobility Pathways Project

Indigenous Youth Mobility Pathways Project (IYMP) helps young Indigenous people from rural and remote areas move to a new place to study, train, or start an apprenticeship. IYMP helps remove obstacles that might make it hard to learn or find a job and supports young people in all parts of their life while they’re in the program.

The National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy

The National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy (NASCA) provide mentoring, wellbeing, and support services to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander young women in NSW public schools. NASCA currently operate in partnership with the department across 20 NSW public school sites.

Aboriginal Employment Strategy

Matching the right career seekers to the right opportunities, Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES) supports a broad range of activities that are responsive to the needs of employers, Indigenous Australians, and their communities.

Educational Access Schemes

Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander young people may apply for special consideration under the specific schemes at each university, and/or under the Educational Access Scheme (EAS). Check your preferred university website for their scheme.

Supporting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander students at TAFE and university

TAFE NSW, registered training organisations (RTOs) and universities have programs and policies to facilitate access by Aboriginal students and to cater for their needs once they have enrolled.

Tertiary institution websites

Tertiary institutions have extra support to help Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students. The list of links below is a good place to start learning about what help is available. It is a good idea for students to contact the universities directly to find out more.

• Australian Catholic University First Peoples and Equity Pathways Directorate
• Australian National University Tjabal Indigenous Higher Education Centre
• Batchelor Institute Batchelor Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education
• Bond University Nyombil Indigenous Support Centre
• Central Queensland University Indigenous Engagement
• Charles Darwin University Australian Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Education
• Charles Sturt University School of Indigenous Australian Studies
• Curtin University of Technology Centre for Aboriginal Studies
• Deakin University NIKERI Institute
• Edith Cowan University Kurongkurl Katitjin, Centre for Indigenous Australian Education and Research
• Federation University Aboriginal Education Centre
• Flinders University Yunggorendi First Nations Centre for Higher Education and Research
• Griffith University Gumurrii Student Success Unit
• James Cook University Indigenous Education and Research Centre
• La Trobe University Indigenous Strategy and Education
• Macquarie University Department of Indigenous Studies
• Monash University Monash Indigenous Studies Centre
• Murdoch University Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre
• Queensland University of Technology Oodgeroo Unit
• RMIT University Ngarara Willim Centre
• Southern Cross University Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples
• The University of Adelaide Wirltu Yarlu Aboriginal Education
• The University of Sydney, Gadigal Centre
• The University of Western Australia School of Indigenous Studies
• University of Canberra Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation Program
• University of Melbourne Murrup Barak, Melbourne Institute for Indigenous Development
• University of New England Oorala Aboriginal Centre
• University of New South Wales Nura Gili, Centre for Indigenous Programs
• University of Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit
• University of South Australia Aboriginal Pathway Program (APP)
• University of Sydney Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support and safe spaces
• University of Tasmania Riawunna Centre for Aboriginal Education
• University of Technology Sydney Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research
• University of Wollongong Woolyungah Indigenous Centre
• University of Notre Dame Nulungu Research Institute is a Kimberley-based organisation of collaborating Aboriginal and non-Indigenous researchers, each with extensive practical and theoretical knowledge.
• University of Southern Queensland College for First Nations
• University of Newcastle The Wollotuka Institute
• Victoria University Moondani Balluk
• Western Sydney University Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education

Country Universities Centres The Country Universities Centre (CUC) is a place-based initiative changing education to better fit the future of regional Australia. We support regional communities across Australia to establish and operate a locally owned Centre in their community. Each Centre is locally governed and driven by its community through an independent Board of Directors. The network approach of our model means that communities can leverage off existing knowledge, share practices and collaborate to create unique and innovative solutions to increasing access to higher education in regional Australia.

Employment opportunities

Transport for NSW: Transport for NSW strongly encourage Aboriginal people to apply for all advertised jobs. The Aboriginal Employment Unit and Talent teams are available to provide extra support across all parts of the recruitment process. Additionally, some of the roles we advertise use Aboriginal-targeted and identified recruitment methods to further increase the number of Aboriginal people that apply. Aboriginal Vocational Education and Training (VET) Cadet Program. Further information got to Supporting Aboriginal people at Transport for further information contact the Aboriginal Employment Unit at Aboriginal.Employment@transport.nsw.gov.au.

NSW Health: Aboriginal Workforce in NSW Health Cadetships and Scholarships Training Programs

Communities and Justice: Careers for Aboriginal People

NSW Department of Primary Industries: Staff Profile Flyers

Essential Energy: Join their organisation and experience a positive culture that fosters camaraderie and personal growth, serving and connecting the regional communities of NSW and southern QLD. Enjoy work-life balance, and training opportunities for development in a wider range of careers than you might expect. They’re an organisation that values your voice, empowers your autonomy, recognises the strength in diversity, and prioritises your well-being while offering attractive remuneration and benefits. Take pride in making a meaningful impact on regional, rural and remote communities while being part of a pivotal player in the energy industry's future.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander career pathways

Other useful websites

The following websites provide additional information and resources to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander student’s pathways.

Aboriginal centres in NSW universities provides weblinks to Aboriginal centres in universities located in NSW.

Australian government policies and programs indigenous.gov.au.

Indigenous Teaching at Australian Universities website identifies Australian Universities where there are dedicated Indigenous centres, schools, and units.

Information supplied by the NSW Department of Education, Aboriginal Education and Communities Directorate.

Kimberwalli supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to feel strong in culture, stay engaged in school, and transition to further education and employment. Kimberwalli works closely with the AECG, schools, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and businesses, across government and with the private sector to deliver Aboriginal cultural engagement and education programs, wellbeing and leadership programs, and transition and career programs.

Opportunity Hubs are places that help Aboriginal young people feel confident and learn how to move from high school into further education or a job. They do this by working with schools, employers, training programs, and the local community to find the right opportunities that match each student’s dreams and goals. Opportunity Hubs are set up in Campbelltown, Liverpool, Dubbo, Tamworth, and the Greater Western Sydney regions (Upper Hunter is currently non-operational).

Your Career Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander post-school transition programs provides resources to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander secondary students in school based vocational learning and VET programs.

University Educational Access Scheme Alternative Entry information from the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) website for each institution may assist school leavers who are seeking entry but do not meet the usual criteria.

Disadvantaged students

Educational Access Schemes (EAS) help students who have faced tough challenges, like money problems, illness, or family issues, get into university. Universities use this program to adjust students' entry scores, giving them a better chance of being accepted. The University Admissions Centre (UAC) looks after these applications.

If you think this could help you, fill out an EAS application and include all the challenges that have affected your schoolwork.

How to apply for EAS.

For more information on how the scheme works, refer to the UAC Educational Access Scheme.

Additional information on the Educational Access Scheme offered by individual universities can be found here.

If you have a disability

Institutions can provide services and assessment adjustments for students who have disabilities and ongoing illnesses that affect their studies. Speak to disability support staff at the institutions for information and advice about preparing for study.

If you have a disability and are having problems with the UAC application process, contact UAC. You may also be eligible for Educational Access Schemes (EAS).

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students

Each university has a special entry scheme for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students. See fact sheet 13 - Aboriginal Youth for a high-level overview of post school pathway options to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander students, including Aboriginal Centres at Australian Universities. Check UAC and separate university information for details.

Elite athlete and performer schemes

To apply as an elite athlete or performer, contact the institution directly in addition to applying through UAC. Check with the institutions about application deadlines and the supporting documents you need to provide. Note that you cannot apply for the Educational Access Scheme because of missing periods of schooling due to sporting or performance commitments.

Early Offer Schemes for Year 12 students

While the ATAR is still the main selection tool used by most unis, there are other ways for you to show that you are ready to succeed at tertiary study.

Institutions may offer one or more early offer schemes for Year 12 students. Through these schemes, the institutions will assess you using criteria other than (or in addition to) your ATAR. Check with institutions directly, to make sure the courses you are applying for, are eligible for the early offer scheme.

The Schools Recommendation Schemes is an early offer scheme that you apply for through UAC. Students must apply directly through each institution, for all other early offer schemes.

For more information, check UAC - Undergraduate Fact Sheet - Early Offer Schemes

Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)

Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) is one of the way institutions make early offers of undergraduate admission to Year 12 students. They do this by using criteria other than (or in addition to) the ATAR.

If you then receive an offer to a course in your new list, you can decide whether to accept it and withdraw from your original course, or not accept the new offer and keep your place in your original course.

Check UAC Schools Recommendation Schemes website to download the Schools Recommendation Scheme application guide and for application closing dates.

Financial support may be available, to help you on your student journey.

A Commonwealth supported place is a spot at a university where the government pays part of your fees. This is called a subsidy — it’s not a loan, so you don’t have to pay it back. But the subsidy doesn’t cover everything. You still have to pay the rest, called the 'student contribution amount.'

Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)

The Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) provides financial assistance to help students pay:

• Student contributions (HECS-HELP)
• Tuition fees (FEE-HELP)
• Overseas study expenses (OS-HELP)
• Student service and amenities fees (SA-HELP).

The Australian Government StudyAssist website has details about eligibility, student contributions and repayment. Note that there are citizenship eligibility requirements to be met.

Programs are administered by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training. Debts and repayments are managed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

HECS-HELP

When you attend university or an approved higher education provider, you can get a HECS-HELP loan to pay for your studies. You can only get a HECS-HELP loan if you are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP).

A HECS-HELP loan does not cover costs like accommodation, laptops, or textbooks. A HECS-HELP loan is used to pay your Student contribution amount.

For more information, view the relevant HELP publications.

A student can elect to pay the student contribution up-front rather than deferring the amount as a HELP loan.

FEE-HELP

FEE-HELP helps eligible students who have to pay full fees for their studies. This is usually for students at private education providers or doing postgraduate courses that don’t have government-supported spots. It’s important to know that:

• there is a lifetime limit on FEE-HELP debt. This includes all FEE-HELP and VET Student Loans debts
• 25% loan fee, which is added to the balance of the loan, but does not count towards the FEE-HELP debt limit
• the loan fee only applies to undergraduate students and courses; it is not paid by full-fee postgraduate and research students.

OS-HELP – overseas

OS-HELP loans assist eligible Commonwealth supported students undertaking part of their studies overseas. An OS-HELP loan can be used for airfares, accommodation, and other costs of overseas study.

OS-HELP loans are paid by the Australian provider to the student. The provider is then reimbursed by the Government and a HELP debt created.

Students may receive one loan per six-month study period and can access a total of two OS-HELP loans over their lifetime.

You should contact the student administration area of your provider for more information.

SA-HELP – student amenities

Your university or higher education provider can charge you a fee each year called the student services and amenities fee (SSAF). SA-HELP is a loan to assist eligible students to pay for all or part of their student services and amenities fee. For additional information including eligibility and support applying visit SA-HELP.

VET student loans

The VET Student Loans assist eligible students enrolled in higher level VET courses to pay their fees.

Available only for eligible diploma, advanced diploma, graduate certificate, and graduate diploma courses that are provided by an approved course provider. Providers approved for VET Student Loans are identified by the active ‘VSL’ logo on the Your Career website.

Loans are available for each course, but only up to a set limit (cap). If the course costs more than this limit, the student has to pay the extra amount themselves. It’s important to know that:

• a lifetime limit on FEE-HELP debt. This includes all FEE-HELP and VET student loans debts
• 20% loan fee, which is added to the balance of the loan, but does not count towards the FEE-HELP debt limit. Students who are subsidised by a state or territory government do not pay the loan fee
• requirements that students demonstrate they are progressing through the course
• requirements that students log on twice during the year and acknowledge that they accept the loan they are receiving.

More information is available in the VET Student Loans Information Booklet (PDF 1.01MB).

Paying back your loan

HELP and VET Student Loans provide interest-free loans, but the outstanding amount is indexed annually by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). All HELP and VET Student Loans debts are managed by the Australian Taxation Office and:

• an individual commences repaying their loan debt when their taxable income reaches the repayment threshold
• the rate at which the HELP debt is repaid rises according to taxable income, up to the value of the debt.

Student Start-up Loans

Available for eligible new recipients of Youth Allowance, Austudy and ABSTUDY studying a Student Start-up Loan approved course.

• loans are paid in two half-yearly instalments
• repayment arrangements are the same as for HELP.

Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans

Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans are intended to assist apprentices with everyday costs while they complete their apprenticeship. Visit the Department of Education, Skills and Employment for more information.

Check NESA HSC key dates webpage for important details for the 2024 Higher School Certificate (HSC). These include dates for exams and submissions for Schools Online.

Check the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) website for the HSC result dates.

December

Year 10, Year 11 and HSC results, are available to view as soon as they are released by NESA. You can download your NESA credential as a free PDF via your Students Online account through certificates/eRecord. Your HSC credentials will include:

• an HSC testamur,
• record of achievement detailing your year 10, 11 and 12 results, and
• personalised course reports for relevant HSC courses.

You can also download your free VET credentials. After downloading, remember to save or print your credentials as your Students Online account will only remain open until 30 June the following year.

View examples of the HSC credentials.

In addition to your free HSC credential as a PDF, eligible students receive a hard copy HSC testamur. You can order a further copy of your HSC testamur or a printed copy of your HSC credential package, including record of achievement and course reports, via your Students Online account results services, for a small fee.

January

Your formal HSC testamur will be posted from NESA. You can print the documents from NSW Students Online or pay for another copy.

HSC results

HSC results are delivered to students via email and text.

HSC Inquiry Centre phone 1300 13 83 23, will be available shortly after the HSC results have been released.

Students Online is your source of information from Year 10 to the HSC. Enter student number and personal identification number (PIN) and follow the prompts.

Remember your NESA number and Students Online PIN are different from your University Admissions Centre (UAC) number and PIN.

Need help logging in?

If this is your first time logging in to your personal account, you need to activate your account and create your NSW Students Online PIN. If you have forgotten your PIN see Help.

Privacy information

NESA will provide the personal details and results of all NSW students to:

• your principal
• UAC for the calculation of the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)
• TAFE NSW and
• some approved officials from the Department of Education.
  

NESA publishes HSC merit lists on its website and provides these lists to select media outlets. HSC merit lists include the name, school, and course/s of all students who, for example, achieve an HSC mark in the top band in any course.

NESA does not provide the media with the names or the results of any other students. If you choose not to have your name published on the NESA website and provided to the media, you will not be eligible to receive associated awards.

Please read NESA's privacy policy. If you require further information on privacy issues or wish to be removed from a published merit list, please contact NESA.

Literacy and numeracy test results

To meet the HSC minimum standard, students need to achieve Level 3 or 4 in short online numeracy, reading and writing tests. Your literacy and numeracy test and diagnostic report will be delivered to "My Messages in your NSW Students Online account shortly after completing your test. If you plan to leave school before completing the HSC, you can speak to your year adviser about taking the minimum standard tests to demonstrate your level of literacy and numeracy. Read more about the literacy and numeracy tests.

Information for students who wish to leave school before finishing the Higher School Certificate (HSC): All students who are under the age of 17 and are yet to complete year 10 must be in one of the following:

• in school, or registered for home schooling
• in approved education or training
• in full-time, paid employment (average 25 hours/week)
• in a combination of these 3.

Find out more about the school leaving age.

NSW Record of School Achievement

If you leave school before finishing your Higher School Certificate (HSC), you might be able to get a Record of School Achievement (RoSA). Your school can create an eRecord to check your courses are recorded correctly. You can use this eRecord as a temporary report until your official RoSA is ready to download from your Students Online account. Once your school tells the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) that you’re eligible, you can download your RoSA as a free PDF from Results Services on NSW Students Online in My Details. For more info, visit the NESA website.

Literacy and numeracy test results

If you’re planning to leave school before getting your HSC, you can take online tests to show your literacy and numeracy skills. NESA suggests doing these tests as close as possible to your leaving date. Your test results and a report showing how you went will be sent to “My Messages” in your NSW Students Online account soon after you finish the tests.

Low cost and fee-free training options

There are several options for students considering alternative education and training options. Explore low cost and fee-free training options including fee-free training, pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship and Get Back in the Game on the Skills NSW website.

Fee-free training opportunities

Traineeships are a proven pathway to well-paid jobs in a diverse range of careers. In NSW, traineeships are also fee free.

Fee-free pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship

If you are thinking about taking an apprenticeship or traineeship but not sure if it is right for you, then enrol in a fee-free pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship course.

Get Back in the Game

A referral service that provides specialist support to students to help them either re-engage with education, transition to vocational training, or find employment. The Get Back in the Game program supports disengaged young people, aged 15 to 19 years.

Distance Education

Distance education is an equity program for NSW students who are geographically isolated or whose individual circumstances prevent them from regularly attending school.

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Vocational Education and Training (VET) provides workplace skills, technical knowledge, and qualifications for rewarding jobs and careers. Registered training organisations (RTOs) are training providers registered by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) to deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) services and qualifications. Find out more about the benefits of studying a VET course and how to enrol on the Skills NSW website. Search for VET courses and RTOs on the Your Career website.

Smart and Skilled

Smart and Skilled provides government-subsidised training and higher-level courses to help you get skills to find a job and advance your career. Smart and Skilled provides eligible students with:

• an entitlement to government-subsidised training up to and including Certificate III level qualifications, and select traineeships and apprenticeships
• training in higher-level courses (Certificate IV and above) in targeted priority areas.

For more information phone:

Training Services NSW - 13 28 11

Smart and Skilled NSW - 1300 772 104

Department of Employment

The Australian Government through the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) is delivering a range of initiatives to give young job seekers the employability skills and real work experience they need to get a job. The initiatives include:

Youth Advisory Sessions help young people aged 15-24, in online and digital employment services to maintain their work readiness and/or motivation and to find employment. Young people can get up to three, free, one-hour advisory sessions with a specialist youth consultant.

The youth Transition to Work program assists young people to get intensive pre- employment support to help them set and achieve their employment and education goals.

Parent Pathways is a voluntary service that provides personalised assistance and financial support to eligible parents and carers of children up to the age of 6 years.

Job Jumpstart has tips and ideas about jobs and careers. Also provides tips on workplace rights and responsibilities, safety, networking, and personal presentation.

Income support for students and trainees

You may be eligible for a range of State and Commonwealth Government financial assistance to help you stay in your apprenticeship or traineeship.

ABSTUDY helps with costs for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Australians who are studying or undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship.

Youth Allowance for students and Australian Apprentices offers financial help for people aged 24 or younger and a student or Australian Apprentice. Watch this video which explains Youth Allowance eligibility.

Education Entry Payment helps people on income support to study.

Fares Allowance helps with travel costs between your permanent home and your place of tertiary study in Australia.

Low Income Health Care Card gives you cheaper health care and some concessions if you’re on a low income.

Childcare fee assistance helps with the cost of approved childcare for eligible parents doing an approved activity.

For more income support options refer to the Youth assistance fact sheet. For information and rates visit the Services Australia website.

Visit Young People for useful information, guidance, and support services for all stages of a young person's life in NSW.

Homeless youth

The NSW Government aims to increase the proportion of young people who successfully move from specialist homelessness services to long-term accommodation. Learn more about the programs and services available to assist young people at risk of homelessness.

Youth Off the Streets is a not-for-profit youth organisation. Services and programs provide young people with safety, support, and opportunities to build a positive future. Phone 1800 06 22 88

Yfoundations, is the NSW peak body advocating for young people at risk of and experiencing homelessness, and the services that support them. Phone 1800 152 152

Salvation Army provides a range of services, including homeless services, to support people in need. Phone 13 72 58

Link2Home is a service for people who are homeless or who are worried they will become homeless, as well as for advocates acting on a person's behalf. Phone
‍1800 152 152

Youth health resources and contacts for young people provides links for urgent help; health services; health information and other support.

Transitioning from school is a major event for a young person. Some rural and remote students can find this time particularly challenging. This fact sheet has information to help you to access and remain in higher education.

Australian Government financial support

The Department of Human Services, through Centrelink, provides financial support to assist with costs while you finish school, undertake tertiary education, or undertake an Australian Apprenticeship or traineeship. Visit the Services Australia website for further information. Some examples include:

• Youth Allowance provides financial help for people 16 to 24 years of age who are studying full time, undertaking a full time Australian Apprenticeship, training, looking for work or sick.
• Relocation Scholarship is a yearly payment to help students move to or from a regional or remote area to study. You must get ABSTUDY or Youth Allowance and be in full time higher education.
• Student Start-up Loan supports the upfront cost of study for higher education students.

Grants and scholarships

• The Country Education Foundation (CEF) helps disadvantaged rural and regional students' access education, training, and careers. See the 'Students' tab on their website for information on CEF grants, a survival guide, a scholarship guide, and student support.
• NSW Department of Education offers rural teaching scholarships. Get paid while you study to become a primary or secondary teacher in a rural or remote NSW public school.
• Country Women's Association (CWA) of NSW offers a variety of Education Grants to students from NSW.
• Students can search a list of scholarships for health services compiled by Going Rural Health.
• The Commonwealth Government is offers Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships to regional and remote students to help them access and complete tertiary STEM qualifications.

Support for students

Find government programs, initiatives, and resources to help with your studies and help accessing higher education.

Programs exist to help students access university who:

• Live in regional and remote areas
• Identify as indigenous
• Are from a low socio-economic status (SES) background
• Have a disability Supporting students to relocate for study

For information on access and participation.

The Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) is a one-off payment:

• to school leavers from outer regional or remote areas
• who relocate more than 90 minutes from their family home
• to undertake full-time, higher-level tertiary education.

Learn more about TAP.

University Educational Access Scheme

The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) helps students experiencing educational challenges gain entry into university.Students enrolled in schools located in regional and remote areas are automatically eligible for EAS consideration.

Visit the UAC EAS website for links to universities and explore scholarships for students from rural, remote, or regional areas.

Refer to Alternative university entry schemes fact sheet for additional information.

Smart and Skilled gives you access to government-subsidised training. This means you pay part of the course fee to your chosen training provider, and the government covers the rest. To get this support, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements.

Courses labeled as ‘Smart and Skilled’ are on the NSW Skills List. This list includes courses connected to industries that are important for the state and are expected to need more workers in the future.

Eligible students may receive:

• an entitlement to government-subsidised training up to and including certificate III level qualifications and select traineeships and apprenticeships.
• training in higher-level courses (certificate IV and above) in targeted priority areas.

The student eligibility criteria:

• 15 years old or over
• no longer at school
• living or working in NSW
• an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder or New Zealand citizen.

Asylum seekers and refugees

If you're an asylum seeker or refugee, you are eligible for Smart and Skilled training from Certificate I to Advanced Diploma level if you meet the criteria listed on the Smart and Skilled website.

If you are eligible, you will have access to fee-free training for qualifications up to Certificate IV level on the NSW Skills List.

Fee-free pre-apprenticeships and pre- traineeships

If you are thinking about taking an apprenticeship or traineeship but unsure if it is right for you, then enrol in a fee-free pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship course and see if it suits.

To be eligible for a pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship, you need to meet all the below criteria:

• be 15 years old or over
• live or work in New South Wales
• be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder or New Zealand citizen
• no longer be at school or equivalent (excluding home schooled students).

If you have a disability — including mental health challenges, medical conditions, or learning difficulties — it’s a good idea to contact a disability adviser at the institute you want to study at. They can help you talk about your needs and figure out any support or adjustments you might need. Even if you’re not sure, it’s worth reaching out to understand how things work, just in case you need help later on.

Disability services are available at each of the Universities in NSW for you to discuss your education needs.

For tips, hints and links to help high school students with disability thinking about going to university visit the Get ready for study and work web pages on the western Sydney university website.

• Phone (02) 9678 7371
• Email ndco@westernsydney.edu.au

University Admissions Centre (UAC) staff can also provide help with the application process.

• Phone 1300 275 822
• From mobile or overseas (02) 9752 0200

TAFE NSW also has information on how to access support for students with disability.

Australian Disabilities Clearinghouse on Education and Training

The student resources section of the Australian Disabilities Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET) website has a range of resources to assist university students to become independent learners and job seekers. Areas covered include:

• planning for post-secondary education
• understanding university entry pathways
• knowing your rights
• linking with appropriate supports
• managing your studies
• planning for graduate employment.

Disability Employment Services

Australian Government information and advice service for people with disability can be found on the JobAccess website. You can find free access to information on topics such as financial assistance, help with finding and changing jobs, creating flexible work environments, career advice and training courses.

Phone a JobAccess adviser on 1800 464 800 or visit the JobAccess website.

The Australian Government delivers employment assistance for job seekers with disability, injury or health condition through Disability Employment Services. These services can help prepare for, find, and keep a job. They are divided into two parts:

• Disability Management Service – for job seekers with disability, injury or health condition who need assistance to find a job and occasional support to keep a job.
• Employment Support Service – helps people with permanent disability and who need regular, ongoing support to keep a job.

Disability Services Australia

SCOPE Australia helps people build the skills they need to become more independent and take part in their community. They create opportunities for people to make their own choices, feel included, and achieve their goals — whether at home, in education and training, or at work.

SCOPE Australia is a not-for-profit organization that supports 3,000 people with disabilities and employs over 1,600 staff. They work across key areas of New South Wales, including Metropolitan Sydney, the Hunter, Tamworth, the Central West, the Southern Highlands, and the Southern Ranges.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supports people with a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to take part in everyday activities. If you are not already a participant of the NDIS and you have a disability, you may wish to find out if you are eligible. Check your eligibility with the NDIS online access checklist or contact the National Disability Insurance Agency on 1800 800 110.

Registering with an Employment Services Provider

Centrelink can refer you to an Employment Services Provider in your area. They can help you access:

• job search help and training
• job availability in your area
• resources such as computers, telephones, and stationery.

For advice phone the Disability, Sickness and Carers line on 132 717 or visit the Services Australia website – Disability Employment Services.

When preparing to leave secondary school, there are important steps to take regarding tax file numbers (TFNs) and superannuation.

What is a tax file number?

A tax file number (TFN) is your personal reference number for the tax and superannuation systems issued by the Australian Tax Office (ATO). You only need to apply for a TFN once. If you’ve ever applied for one, you already have it.

Why do you need a TFN?

There are several reasons you will need a TFN including:

• Employment: If you plan to work, having a TFN is essential. Employers use it to report your income and withhold the correct amount of tax.
• Government Benefits: Applying for government benefits (such as Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY) requires a TFN.
• Australian Business Number (ABN): A TFN is required if you plan to start a business.

How do I get a TFN?

Australian resident students can apply for a TFN online and have their identity verified through an interview at a participating Australia Post office.

Foreign passport holders who meet the conditions can apply online.

See the information on how to apply for a tax file number on the ATO website.

The Tax Super and You work-ready course helps young persons to understand the tax and super systems in Australia.

What is superannuation?

Superannuation, or super, is money that is set aside when you are working to live on in your retirement. Super contributions usually start when you begin working and your employer pays a percentage of your wage or salary to a superannuation fund.

Your employer will need your TFN to pay your super contributions. You can find out more about super on the ATO website.

What other services does the ATO provide?

The ATO website has lots of information including lodging your tax return, income and deductions and work-related expenses. Visit the ATO website to learn more.

Tertiary education refers to formal education beyond high school. It encompasses both government and private institutions and is divided into two main sectors:

• Higher Education: this sector is provided by universities.
• Vocational Education and Training (VET): this sector is provided by government-owned TAFE NSW and private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).

Tertiary institutions have different application processes. You can apply for university and other participating tertiary institutions through the University Admissions Centre (UAC). Other tertiary institutions can be applied to directly.

UAC produces a wide range of resources for tertiary study applicants, careers advisers, teachers, other education professionals and parents. Access UAC’s Media Centre for the latest publications, media releases and subscription to their digital newsletters.

Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA)

ITECA includes private education and training providers offering qualifications at all levels, from basic short courses to postgraduate degrees.

Increasingly, institutions that offer certificate and diploma courses also provide accredited degree alternatives, or guaranteed pathways to degree courses at partner universities.

The course finder on the ITECA website includes over 1,000 courses. It is a good starting point for investigating private and direct entry education and training options.

Some private providers have government funding for some courses. Student fees vary between institutions. Contact your preferred institution for the fee structure.

Refer to the fact sheet for information on the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP).

Australian Defence Force

To serve in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), you need to be an Australian citizen with the appropriate citizenship documents. There are several other ADF eligibility requirements.

To be considered for entry into the ADF you must be at least 16 years and 6 months old to apply with parental or guardian consent, and at least 17 years old at the time of enlistment.

The Defence Jobs website allows you to complete your entire job application online.

UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy

Admission to the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) is based on a dual application process.

Students need to complete a Defence Force Recruiting process to receive a job offer for the Australian Defence Force in the navy, army, or air force. Applicants start this process by contacting Defence Force Recruiting on 13 19 01.

All applicants must also meet the minimum tertiary entrance requirements for the degree that they wish to study at UNSW Canberra at ADFA.

All applicants must apply to UNSW Canberra at ADFA through UAC. For further information visit UNSW Canberra.

For all enquiries contact the student recruitment officer on student.recruitment@adfa.edu.au or (02) 6268 6000.

The Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) processes applications for admission to most undergraduate courses at participating institutions (mainly located in NSW and the ACT).

University admission criteria

Getting into most courses is based on your academic results and qualifications. Some courses also have extra requirements like a personal statement, questionnaire, portfolio, audition, interview, or test. These might be used instead of, or along with, your academic results.

Each university or training provider sets its own entry requirements, and many offer pathway options if you don’t meet the usual criteria. It’s important to check the details for each institutions you’re applying to.

Entry can be competitive, and you’ll be selected based on how well you meet the course requirements. If you don’t qualify for your first-choice course, some institutions might offer you a place in a similar, lower-ranked course. For more details, check the Admission Criteria section on the UAC website. Visit the section of the UAC website for further details.

How to apply

You can apply for undergraduate and postgraduate (coursework) study through UAC if you are:

• an Australian or New Zealand citizen
• a permanent resident of Australia
• the holder of an Australian permanent resident humanitarian visa.

You can also apply for undergraduate study through UAC if you're an international student who has completed/is undertaking one of the following qualifications in 2023 or 2024:

• an Australian Year 12 in or outside Australia
• an International Baccalaureate Diploma
• a New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 3.

Everyone else needs to apply directly to the university.

Visit the Applying for uni through UAC section of the UAC website for further details.

Access and scholarships

UAC works with universities to widen participation in higher education. Equity programs aim to overcome educational and financial disadvantages and help everyone access their potential.

Equity Scholarships are awarded to students from low socio-economic backgrounds, particularly those who receive Centrelink income support payments.

Educational Access Scheme helps students who have experienced long-term educational disadvantage gain admission to tertiary study.

Information about the Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) is a pathway for Year 12 students to receive early offers of undergraduate admission. Institutions use criteria beyond the ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) to assess applicants.

UAC offers

UAC advises students of their offers on behalf of the participating institutions. There are several offer rounds throughout the year. The key dates and information for UAC applications with offer rounds is located on the UAC website.

The most important offer rounds for Year 12 students are December round 2 and January round 1, after the Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATAR) are released. Although some Year 12 students receive early offers before the December round 2, these are usually for early entry schemes such as Schools Recommendation Schemes, Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) courses and distance education courses.

The key dates and information on the UAC website show the dates by which you need to apply, provide documents, and change your preferences to be guaranteed consideration in each offer round. Update your application using selecting and changing course preferences.

Deferment

Deferring your course means you’ve been accepted into a course but have permission from the institution to delay starting it. This delay is usually for six months or a year. Deferments are only approved if the course is still available in the next semester or year.

Apply direct institutions

Some of UAC participating institutions also take direct applications for their undergraduate courses. This means you can submit a UAC application and a direct application to the institution. You can filter ‘Apply direct’ institutions on the UAC website.

Private provider entry pathways – universities and colleges

Entry requirements may vary for year 12 students with different tertiary private providers and institutions but will often include one or more of the following criteria:

• NSW HSC or equivalent
• your ATAR
• certificate IV in a relevant discipline
• successful admission interview with optional submission of creative portfolio.

UAC website

uac.edu.au (includes online email enquiry service).

UAC contacts

UAC Media Centre

You can contact UAC in the following ways:

• Call (+61 2) 9752 0200 between 8.30am and 4.30pm (Sydney time) Monday to Friday.
• Use their enquiry form.
• Write to the Equity Unit, UAC, Locked Bag 112, Silverwater NSW 2128, Australia.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) can help you gain the skills and qualifications you need to meet the employment demands of the future. VET provides multiple pathways for you to open up career opportunities.

Registered training organisations

Registered training organisations (RTOs) are training providers registered by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) to deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) services and qualifications.

You can use the Smart and Skilled website course finder to check your eligibility, find the right Smart and Skilled course and approved training provider, and estimate the student fee.

TAFE NSW

TAFE NSW offers a range of courses with a choice of qualifications, industry areas, learning styles and durations. TAFE NSW offers nationally recognised vocational qualifications across all these levels:

• Certificates I-IV
• Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas
• Graduate Certificates and Diplomas
• Associate and Bachelor Degrees
• Short courses.

Check out the website for entry requirements and fees.

What is TAFE Digital?

TAFE Digital offers a wide range of nationally recognised, online study options, across a range of modern industries. You can study online and enjoy flexible learning to fit your lifestyle, with our online short courses, certificates, diplomas, and degrees.

Thinking about studying online? When you study online with TAFE Digital, you're not on your own. Learn more about TAFE Digital, their inclusive online environment and how you can study on your terms. Explore TAFE Digital's frequently asked questions.

TAFE NSW Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Your Unique Student Identifier (USI) will transfer to TAFE NSW and you may get recognition for courses already attained.

The Credit Transfer website is a useful tool to help you plan your education journey. Whether you’re starting at TAFE NSW or have already finished a qualification, this site shows how your studies can count toward further learning. It lists over 3,200 pathways across 28 universities and higher education providers, so there’s likely a path that suits you. Since credit arrangements change often, be sure to check with the institution you’re applying to by following the steps in the How to Apply section.

Smart and Skilled

Smart and Skilled is government subsidised training and provides eligible students with:

• an entitlement to government-subsidised training up to and including certificate III level qualifications, and select traineeships and apprenticeships.
• training in higher-level courses (certificate IV and above) in targeted priority areas.

Check the website to see if you are eligible.

The 1000 NSW Public Sector Apprentices and Trainees Program

The NSW Government is offering exciting apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities for individuals eager to grow in their chosen fields. The 1000 NSW Public Sector Apprentices and Trainees Program aims to employ an additional 1000 apprentices and trainees across NSW Government agencies and State Owned Corporations over three years, until 30 June 2026.

Successful applicants could:

• earn and learn on the job
• access excellent career opportunities and industry experience
• gain support from highly experienced and skilled industry professionals
• build hands-on, practical experience
• earn nationally recognised qualifications.

Fee-free pre-apprenticeships and pre-traineeships

If you are thinking about taking an apprenticeship or traineeship but not sure if it is right for you, then enrol in a fee-free pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship course and see if it suits.

To be eligible for a pre-apprenticeship or pre-traineeship, you need to:

• be 15 years old or over
• have completed Year 10 (or its equivalent) and be eligible to leave school under NSW Education Amendment (school leaving age) Regulation 2009
• be living or working in NSW
• be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, Australian humanitarian visa holder or New Zealand citizen.

For Year 12 students leaving school, it is an exciting but sometimes uncertain time as they navigate life changes. This fact sheet provides information to support planning for leaving school. You can also find useful information in the following fact sheets:

• Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)
• Universities Admissions Centre - key information

Go to work – how can I get a job?

Here are a few ideas to start with:

• seek help from your personal networks of friends, family and acquaintances
• talk to your school careers adviser
• visit Careers NSW website
• search advertised job vacancies
• contact employers in industries where you would like to work. Some employers prefer face to face contact, so call them and set up an interview.

Combine work and study

Combining work and study means you are planning to do one or both, part-time or enter a program which includes learning in the workplace. The combination is likely to increase your current and future success as a student and as a worker.

Apprenticeships, cadetships, traineeships, and scholarships

Apprenticeships and traineeships combine formal study with on-the-job training. Cadetship programs provides opportunities for university and diploma-level vocational students to gain on-the-job experience and there are a wide range of scholarships, grants and bursaries that can help support you financially when studying in Australia.

Australian Apprenticeships offer opportunities for you to train, study and earn an income at a variety of qualification levels in most occupations as well as in traditional trades.

Smart and Skilled is an NSW Government initiative helping people in NSW get the skills they need to find a job and advance their careers.

Training Services NSW in the NSW Department of Industry is responsible for government- funded vocational education and training (VET) in NSW.

Australian Government departments and agencies also offer cadetships, scholarships, and work experience opportunities on the Australian Public Service (APS) Jobs website.

Career information and jobs

The following websites and services are a starting point for everything work-related including making career decisions, finding jobs, writing applications and resumes, preparing for interviews, and knowing your rights at work.

• Australian Government’s Department of Education, Skills, and Employment
• Workforce Australia (Australian Government)
• Occupations and industry profiles (Australian Government)
• myfuture offers unbiased career information that assists with career planning, career pathways and work transitions by providing information for students’ career development and additional resources for those who support or influence career choices.
• National Careers Institute (NCI) was established to ensure people have access to authoritative and accurate careers information and support irrespective of their age or career stage. Visit the Your Career website to be connected to further education, training, or work options to support your current career needs or goals.
• School Leavers Information Kit (SLIK) – information for students about further education and training options, financial assistance or getting a job.
• Parents and guardians guide (PGG) – support for parents and guardians in starting important conversations at home.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander SLIK – guidance on tailored programs and services available to First Nations young people to support them for life after school.
• Support for young people with disability – information regarding a range of programs and resources available for young people with disability to support their post-school transition.
• Australian Jobs 2023 – information on industries, occupations, and local labour markets - including where jobs are located, guidance about educational pathways and skills employers need.
• Skillsroad Online career profile & resources
• Services Australia
• The Good Universities Guide
• Your Career - School Leavers Support

Gap year

Many school leavers take a gap year. The idea of a gap year is to take a break from study to explore life, the world, paid and volunteer work and your personal goals. In September of the following year, you may need to make some decisions, re-apply, or confirm a deferred university place or apply for courses at a registered training organisation.

Youth exchange programs

There are numerous exchange programs available. Organisations such as Rotary run programs for international understanding. Remember to research any youth exchange program carefully to ensure your safety, welfare, and the cost is aligned with the benefits.

Rotary Youth Exchange Australia provides an opportunity of a lifetime for Australian high school students to live & study abroad.

Scouts Australia’s International Student Exchange Program (SISEP) is an educational and cultural exchange experience operated by Scouts Australia. It encourages international goodwill and understanding between Australia and other Scouting countries through the facilitation of an exchange experience for Venturer Scouts. NOTE: this program is on hold in 2024.

Southern Cross-Cultural Exchange has been supporting Australian students on high school exchange programs abroad since 1983 (& New Zealand since 2018).

Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is incorporated in Australia as a not-for-profit company registered as a secondary exchange organisation with Departments of Education around Australia and with the Ministry of Education in New Zealand.

World Education Program Australia Ltd (WEP Australia) is an independent, incorporated, not-for-profit Australian student exchange organisation.

Youth For Understanding Student Exchange (YFU) is a not-for-profit organisation that delivers a student exchange organisation approved by Education Departments in every State and Territory in Australia and with the Ministry of Education in New Zealand.

All young Australians deserve a safe, stable home. Young people require employment and further education guidance to assist them with the best possible start for a fulfilling career.

For links to help with health issues, safety issues, and legal rights visit the Living in NSW - young people website.

Income support for students and trainees

The Australian Government provides financial support to assist with costs while you finish school, undertake tertiary education, or undertake an Australian Apprenticeship or traineeship. This includes the following main student payments:

Youth Allowance for students and apprentices,

Austudy

ABSTUDY.

The Australian Government also provides a range of extra payments for a student, trainee, or Australian Apprentice.

Homeless youth

The NSW Government works with housing support services to respond to homelessness in NSW and enable affordable housing for all. Learn more about the programs and services available to assist young people at risk of homelessness:

• Not-for-profit youth organisation, Youth Off the Streets provides services and programs for young people with safety, support, and opportunities to build a positive future. Phone (02) 93303500
  
• The NSW peak body advocating for young people at risk of and experiencing homelessness, and available support is Yfoundations. Phone 1800152152
• Salvation Army provides a range of services, including homeless services, to support people in need. Phone 137258
• People who are homeless or who are worried they will become homeless can access the social and affordable housing service. Services provided include help to find or keep your housing, how to apply for private rental assistance or social housing, understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. The social and affordable housing and referral service is available 24 hours per day. Phone ‍1800152152
• For urgent help; health services; health information and other support, visit NSW Health website youth health resources and contacts for young people resource page.

Youth wellbeing

If you need to talk to someone:

Lifeline website, phone 131114

Beyond Blue website, phone 1300224636

Kids Helpline website, phone1800551800

headspace website, phone 1800650890

Black Dog Institute, phone (02) 93822991

Mens Line website, phone 1300789978

SISTER2sister website, phone (02) 92119129

Suicide Call Back Service website, phone 1300659467.

Department of Employment – support for youth

The Australian Government through the Department of Employment is delivering a range of initiatives to give young job seekers the employability skills and real work experience they need to get a job. The initiatives include:

• Youth Advisory Sessions are one-hour, one-on-one meetings with a Transition to Work provider in your area. These providers specialise in helping young people into work and training. They also know what's going on in your local job market.

To take part in a session, you must be aged 15 to 24 years and registered with Workforce Australia Online. You don't need to receive a Centrelink payment to be eligible. Contact Digital Services Contact Centre for further information.

• The Self-Employment Assistance to support young Australians who wish to start their own business.
• The youth Transition to Work program assists young people to get intensive pre- employment support to help them set and achieve their employment and education goals.
• The Australian Government School Leaver Program (AGSLP) is a 12-month career development program. The program has been designed for young people who have completed a year 12 certificate to build skills on the job. For more information, please visit the Australian Government School Leaver Program website.
• Eligible parents can seek help from Parents Pathways to plan and prepare for employment by the time their children are at school.
• Visit Job Jumpstart website for tips and ideas about jobs and careers in the one spot.