Not Sure What to Study 5 High Demand Careers You Can Train For in Around 12 Months

Not Sure What to Study? 5 High Demand Careers You Can Train For in Around 12 Months

PUBLISHED16 July 2025
WRITTEN BYAllison Roos

Feeling unsure about your career path in 2026? 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 high 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: CHC30125 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: CHC52025 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. Vacancy rates are rising in community-facing roles. In South Australia alone, some public psychology roles face vacancy rates in excess of 50% due to uncompetitive industry pay, and many early-career support workers earn 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What support does Kirana Colleges offer students while they study?

Kirana Colleges offers a range of support services to help students feel confident throughout their learning journey. Through AccessEAP, students can access a 24/7 counselling hotline and up to three complimentary counselling sessions. You’ll also have support from the student support team for help with course navigation, study advice, and general questions.

Q: How many hours a week should I expect to study online?

If you’re studying full-time, a good guide is around 15-20 hours per week for coursework and assessments. Setting aside regular study time each week can help you stay on track and make steady progress towards your qualification.

Q: I’m a mature-aged student. Can I study with Kirana Colleges?

Absolutely. Kirana Colleges supports mature-aged students with flexible online study options that make it easier to balance learning with work, family, and other commitments. You can study at times that suit your schedule and progress at a pace that works for you.

Q: Do I need basic computer skills to study online?

Yes. You’ll need basic computer skills to study online, such as using email, browsing the internet, and navigating an online learning platform. If you need help getting started, the Kirana Colleges team can support you with setup and general guidance.

Speak to one of our Course and Career Advisors
if you have any further questions!

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