Career Tasters can help school students explore different career options to inform their decisions around training, apprenticeships or traineeships. It helps students try careers before formal training.
The program gives students a short, hands-on experience in an industry so they can better understand the types of jobs that are available and decide what training and qualifications might suit them.
Career Tasters are delivered by TAFE Queensland and CQUniversity.
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate, students must be 15 to 17 years old and one of the following:
- a Year 10 student currently enrolled in a mainstream Queensland school
- enrolled in a Special Assistance School
- disengaged from school
- in youth detention or a Youth Justice school.
How it works
Career Tasters give students a chance to try out different industry career options, through practical activities.
Career Tasters:
- take place in training or industry-style environments
- are not accredited courses
- do not count towards Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) credits
- provide practical experience to understand job and study pathways
- help students to understand what a career in their chosen field would be like, before enrolling in formal training.
Participating in Career Tasters will not impact a student’s eligibility for future government funding. Students may access up to 2 Career Tasters in 2026.
Industries on offer
Career Tasters focus on a range of industries to help students explore their interests and develop skills in areas where there is strong workforce demand.
The industries available include:
- automotive
- building and construction
- electrical (including engineering)
- manufacturing (including machinery and fabrication)
- health and community services (including early years education)
- IT and business
- agriculture
- hospitality and tourism
- personal and beauty services
- Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and related opportunities.
Please note: The industries offered will depend on the location and delivery capability during the pilot. For more details, visit the TAFE Queensland and CQUniversity websites.
What does it cost?
Career Tasters are fully funded as part of a joint initiative of the Australian and Queensland Governments. Please note participants may be required to fund their own transport costs.
The pilot period
In 2026, Career Tasters will start in selected regions to ensure a focused and effective rollout. The pilot will explore different delivery models, including options designed to support access for regional students. During the pilot, Career Tasters will be reviewed to help shape future delivery and expand access.
Related information
- Read the Career Taster Student Eligibility and Guidelines 2026.
- View FAQs on Career Tasters and VET in Schools.
- Learn more about Gateway to Industry Schools.
- Discover more free and reduced-cost training.
- Read the VETiS 2026 program policy.
Last updated 15 April 2026
