Not Sure What to Study? 5 High-Demand Careers You Can Train For in Around 12 Months
Feeling unsure about your career path in 2025? You’re not alone. Whether you’re just out of school, changing industries, or returning to work, many Australians are rethinking what they want from their job – flexibility, job security, and meaningful work often top the list.
The good news is: you don’t need a degree or years of study to get there.
At Kirana Colleges, we specialise in short, nationally recognised courses that prepare you for high-growth industries, with many students qualified and job-ready in around 12 months, depending on the course and study pace.
Here are five in-demand careers you can train for in a year or so (and the real-world reasons why they matter more than ever).
1. Aged Care Worker
Course to study: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)
Australia’s ageing population is driving demand in aged care, particularly home and community care. According to KPMG’s 2024 Aged Care Market Report, home care package usage is up 6.6%, with a 29.2% boost in government funding in the last financial year.
That translates to more job opportunities for caring, community-minded individuals, especially as the industry faces a shortfall of 35,000 aged care workers annually.
Why students choose this path:
✔ Long-term job security
✔ Fulfilling daily impact
✔ Flexible shifts to suit lifestyle
2. Mental Health Support Worker
Course to study: CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health
Mental health care is in crisis, but that also means opportunity. A national shortage of professionals has pushed job ads for psychiatrists up nearly 90% compared to 2019. More than ever, entry-level support workers are needed across community care, NDIS services, and recovery-based programs.
Mental health is also gaining major government attention. In March 2025, a $1 billion funding plan was announced to expand Medicare and Headspace services and add 1,200+ new mental health workers.
Why students choose this path:
✔ High emotional reward
✔ Pathways into counselling and psychology
✔ Online flexible study + in-field work placement
3. Early Childhood Educator
Course to study: CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
With childcare demand steadily increasing, educators are essential in long day care, preschool, and community settings. And there’s good news for those considering this path — the Fair Work Commission recently approved a 3.5% increase to modern award wages, effective from 1 July 2025, covering early childhood roles like childcare educators and teachers.
This rise will bump up entry-level Certificate III educator pay from around $27.17/hr to $28.12/hr, and Diploma-qualified educators from $32.00/hr to $33.12/hr, giving a real boost to wages in a predominantly female, historically undervalued industry.
Why students choose this path:
✔ Rising wages and better job security
✔ Strong employment demand across metro and regional Australia
✔ A creative, rewarding career that offers progress into leadership
4. Disability Support Worker
Course to study: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
The NDIS continues to expand with over half a million participants and rising. As a result, skilled disability support workers are in demand across Australia. You’ll help people with physical, intellectual, or psychosocial disabilities live more independently and achieve their goals.
Why students choose this path:
✔ Empower others daily
✔ Work in homes, schools, or the community
✔ Highly flexible job market
5. Community Services Worker
Course to study: CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services
If you want a meaningful career helping people experiencing hardship, whether through case management, crisis response, or homelessness outreach, then this course is a powerful entry point.
Vacancy rates are rising in community-facing roles. In South Australia alone, 50% of public psychology roles remain unfilled, and many early-career support workers are paid less than casual hospitality workers. The need for dedicated, trained workers has never been greater.
Why students choose this path:
✔ Big-picture impact on lives and communities
✔ Work in social services, housing, or advocacy
✔ Pathways to counselling or casework
Why Study with Kirana Colleges?
- 100% flexible online study options
- Supportive trainers and placement assistance
- Nationally recognised qualifications
- No ATAR or previous study required
Take the First Step Today
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Whether you’re looking to retrain, upskill, or start something that matters, our course advisors are here to help.
Speak to a course and career advisor today. We’ll help you explore your options and create a personalised training plan – no obligation, just honest advice.
