With care at the core, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives and support them in achieving their goals.
Community services jobs are growing quickly across Victoria. By 2026, it is forecast that over 83,000 new workers will be needed in the health care and social assistance industry.*
The work is diverse, and you can help people from all walks of life who may be of any age, ability or needs.
For example, you could:
- support people with a disability in a care facility or in their home
- care for people living in an aged care facility or in their home
- help people who are experiencing a crisis, such as homelessness or family violence
- mentor young people who are looking for work.
Whether you are starting out, changing careers, or learning new skills for your existing job, you’ll find a Vocational Education and Training (VET) course to get the skills you need. Once you’re in the industry, there are many career pathways you can follow.
Explore the information below to learn more about working in community services.
Training and careers in community services
What it’s like to work in community services
Find out what to expect on a day-to-day basis, what people love about the work and how much you can earn.
Featured community services jobs
Browse some of the most popular jobs in community services.
Training and skills to work in community services
Explore training courses and skills to start working in community services. If you already work in the industry, training can help advance your career.
Financial assistance for training and other expenses
Free TAFE or Skills First funding could help pay for your training. Find out what other support may be available while you’re studying.
Getting a job in community services
No matter where you are in your career journey, these resources can help you search for jobs and opportunities.
Resources and advice to plan your next steps
Use these free services and resources to plan your next steps. Learn about training options and funding, get career advice, and more.
Community services career stories
Never too late: Debbie finds her passion in mental health
“I help people with complex mental health needs who are working towards recovery. This looks different for each individual. Knowing you can be there to help them achieve their goals is so rewarding.”
Kim’s career switch to community services
“I completed my Diploma of Counselling online and when I finished I was employed from then onwards. There are many more opportunities for me now, but I want to stay in a job where I’m helping people.”
Rebecca opens doors with a business traineeship
“The trainers at TAFE were really supportive and able to teach in a way that suited my needs. I recommend the traineeship pathway to people with disabilities because we learn best by doing things.”
From chef to caseworker: Raka’s recipe for success
“I work with people who have been in contact with the justice system. There are days where the life path of someone can be altered significantly. You can be there to enable a change for the better.”
Explore growing industries in your region
Training and careers in your region
Explore training, skills and job opportunities in your area of Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of job you could do, and what training you’ll need.
Training and careers in growing industries
Learn about high demand industries in Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of job you could do, and what training you’ll need.
* Community services is part of the health care and social assistance industry.
Statistics source: Victorian Skills Authority Employment Forecast Dashboard.
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