Frequently Asked Questions

Safeguarding

Our Commitment to Safeguarding Vulnerable People

Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. At Y Careers, we are dedicated to protecting and empowering people who may be vulnerable, ensuring they can live with dignity, independence, and equal respect.

Our services are designed to be safe, inclusive, and empowering - supporting wellbeing and preventing harm. Our team fosters environments where choice, cultural safety, and respect are at the heart of every interaction. We are dedicated to building a culture of care, inclusion, and trust so that every person can thrive and participate fully in their community.

To achieve this, we have implemented rigorous recruitment and screening processes, learning and development pathways, and a wraparound support model for our trainees and young people we work with. We intentionally partner with organisations that share our values, embedding safeguarding and inclusion from the very beginning of their career journey.

We expect all staff, trainees, and partner organisations to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and to share responsibility for safeguarding. Through education, accountability, and collaboration, we are committed to continuous improvement and to creating environments that are culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful of diverse identities.

Together, we strive to build a workforce that champions the rights of vulnerable people and contributes to safer, stronger communities for all.

If you think you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding Children and Young People

At Y Careers, the safety and wellbeing of children and young people is our highest priority. 

We are committed to creating and maintaining environments where every child and young person feels safe, respected, and valued. 

Safeguarding is embedded in everything we do, ensuring that children and young people remain front of mind across all our programs and services. As part of this commitment, we implement rigorous recruitment and screening practices to ensure only people with the right values and qualities work with children and young people. Safeguarding is integrated into every stage of our recruitment process - from job advertising and interviews, to reference checks, training, and ongoing supervision. 

We expect all staff, trainees, and partner organisations to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and to share our unwavering commitment to safeguarding. We are intentional about partnering with organisations that align with our values, ensuring that a strong culture of child safety is instilled in our trainees from the very beginning of their careers. 

We believe that safeguarding is a shared responsibility and are committed to continuous improvement. We are committed to creating culturally safe, inclusive environments that respect the diverse backgrounds and identities of all children and young people. Through education, accountability, and collaboration, we strive to create a workforce that champions the rights of children and young people and contributes to safer communities for all. 

All concerns, complaints, or allegations of child abuse or harm are taken seriously and responded to in line with our safeguarding procedures and legal obligations. 

If you think you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.

Employ Different

What does it cost to use Y Careers?

There is a cost to partner with us, but as a not-for-profit social enterprise, we keep fees as low as possible. Costs vary depending on the type of support your organisation needs. To find out what partnering with Y Careers could look like for you, get in touch at [email protected].

How do I get started with Y Careers?

Getting started is simple and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Interested in hiring a trainee? Contact our national Business Development Manager, Michael Oosterwyk at [email protected] or email [email protected] 

Have recruitment or partnership inquiries? 
Email [email protected] 

Not sure where to begin?
Contact us 1300 198 701 and we’ll connect you with the right person.
Whether you're ready to bring on a trainee or just want to explore what’s possible, we’ll help you make it happen.

What does a Y Careers Career Coach do?

Y Careers Coaches are the heart of our support model. They work closely with each trainee and their supervisor to:

• Build confidence and workplace readiness
• Set personalised goals and career pathways
• Provide regular check-ins and mentoring
• Resolve any issues that come up during placement
• Keep employers informed and supported throughout

For employers, this means fewer HR pressures, stronger engagement and better outcomes. Your coach is your go to contact, helping your trainee succeed and fully supporting you along the way.

How can Y Careers recruit young people?

Under our partnership with the Australian Government, Y Careers is exempt under the Age Discrimination Act 2004, aimed at improving employment opportunities for young people aged 18-26. 

Hex for young people

Who are the mentors?

You’ll be guided by a powerhouse group of innovators and leaders: 

• Nicole Blair (Ex-Bupa, Pancare) – marketing and innovation expert
• Jesse Liddelow (Bupa Blua Health) – digital product and tech transformation
• Martin Nguyen – founder, health entrepreneur, changemaker
• Jeanette Cheah – award-winning CEO of HEX and startup leader
• Neala Fulia – social entrepreneur and founder of More Good Days
• Dr. Kyle Turner – global health expert and investment manager at Ochre Ventures

 Together, they’ll challenge your thinking, sharpen your skills, and help you shape ideas that matter.

What does the application process look like

It’s simple. Speak to your employer, register your interest and then if eligible you will be asked to submit 5 questions telling us about yourself and why you’re interested in the program.

What happens after I finish the program?

You’ll graduate with new skills, clarity on your career direction, and a network of innovators and leaders. You’ll also join a vibrant alumni community with ongoing access to industry opportunities, mentorship and future programs. And yes, you’ll walk away with university credit to support your academic or professional journey.

Will I be paid to participate?

While this is an unpaid program, you'll gain incredible value: 

• Hands-on experience
• Personal mentorship from industry leaders
• A real-world project to add to your portfolio
• Academic credit from the University of Sydney
• Career connections and pathways that could open new doors.

How long does the program run?

The program runs for 12 weeks (part-time) and is designed to flex around your job, study, or other commitments. It includes online workshops, mentorship, and self-directed teamwork.

What kinds of projects will I work on?

You’ll tackle real-world challenges from partner organisations or your own workplace — projects with purpose, focused on innovation, health, education and community impact. You’ll collaborate in teams to design solutions that make a real difference in your workplace and beyond.

Do I need to have a business idea or special experience to apply?

Not at all! You don’t need a business idea or prior experience. What matters most is your curiosity, passion to learn and desire to make an impact.

Is there a cost to participate?

Yep, there’s a cost to participate, but don’t stress! Chat to your employer about covering it through their learning and development budget. Since the program helps you grow and bring new skills back to work, it’s a win-win for them too.

Who can join the program?

The program is open to young people aged 18–26, currently working in the education and care sectors – early learning, aged care or disability support. If you’re curious, motivated, and ready to grow, this program is for you.

Hex employers

What’s in it for us?

This is more than just a learning experience - it’s a strategic investment in your organisation’s future. You'll foster a culture of innovation, build entrepreneurial mindsets, and upskill high-potential staff. It's a signal to your team (and the sector) that you're a future-focused employer of choice, all while improving retention and leadership development.

Who will we be working with?

This program is a partnership between HEX, a global leader in innovation education, and Y Careers, focused on developing next-gen talent in the care and education sectors.

How much time or support is required from us?

Your commitment includes registering a young person and attending the final pitch showcase. It’s a low-lift, high-impact opportunity. We also recommend nominating an internal sponsor (ideally a senior executive) to champion the program within your organisation.

Employers

Who should I contact regarding the Y Careers Trainee?

• For hiring a trainee - [email protected] or [email protected]
• For recruitment inquiries - [email protected]
• For specific questions related to an existing trainee – Reach out to your assigned Career Coach

For all other queries, contact us.

Do I need to employ a trainee for a set period?

Yes, this will vary by care sector and qualification;

• Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) – employed for 18 months
• Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) – employed for 18 months
• Aged Care and Disability – employed for 12 months 

Who selects the trainee to work in my business?

This will be a collaborative process with the Y Careers Recruitment Team. The team will work with you to establish your needs and will facilitate tailored recruitment activities to source suitable candidates for your review.

Who monitors the Trainee’s training progress?

Your trainee’s progress will be monitored by a team consisting of their Y Careers Career Coach, Program Manager and Employer Partner Supervisor.  

What are my work health and safety requirements?

As an Employer Partner, your health and safety requirements include (but are not limited to):

• Provide a safe and supportive working environment to your trainee(s) at all times.
• Ensure compliance and adherence to WHS legislation and other state and federal regulatory requirements.
• Provide ongoing health and safety training and education to your trainee(s).
• Report any notifiable incidents (serious work-related injuries, illnesses and dangerous incidents), and any near misses to your dedicated Y Careers Coach as soon as practicably possible.
• Provide appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to your trainee(s).

How much does it cost?

As a registered charity and not-for-profit, Y Careers charges Employer Partners an hourly rate for each trainee, which includes a comprehensive suite of services, including:

• Job advertising and recruitment
• Candidate screening and interview coordination
• Career Coach mentoring fees
• Wages
• Superannuation
• Annual leave
• Personal Leave
• Public holiday  Leave
• Education fees
• Workers' compensation
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Pre-employment checks (including but not limited to): National Police Check, Working With Children Check, NDIS Worker Screening Check)
• Vaccinations (including but not limited to): Flu, COVID-19

Please contact Michael Oosterwyk, National Partnerships Manager at michael.oosterwyk@ycareers.org.au  for the costs associated with employing a Trainee.

Who employs the trainee?

Y Careers is the trainee’s legal employer; however, the trainee will be “hosted” at your place of business and will work for you.

What do my responsibilities as an Employer Partner include?

Provide a safe and supportive environment for your trainee(s).

• Assign an appropriate and adequately qualified supervisor who should provide guidance, feedback and support to help the trainee(s) to learn and develop new skills in the workplace.
• Release your trainee(s) from their work environment to attend and complete their regular training requirements.
• Provide regular feedback and performance evaluations to the trainee(s), offering constructive criticism and guidance for improvement.
• Attend and provide feedback at monitoring visits with the trainee(s) and Y Careers Coach
• Ensure the well-being, safety, and success of all trainee (s) at all times.

Trainees

What happens once I finish my traineeship and time at Y Careers?

We want to keep you involved with all things Y Careers. We will host networking and alumni events to connect all our past and present trainees whilst also sharing any career opportunities that may arise within our team.

Do Y Careers guarantee a job on completion of the Traineeship program?

Y Careers does not guarantee you a job on completion of your traineeship, however, we will work closely with you to discuss your options post traineeship, including a second traineeship, further education or assistance in finding permanent work within the industry.

What will be my day-to-day tasks during my Traineeship?

Your tasks will vary depending on the placement you choose but could include:

• Assist in planning and executing engaging, age-appropriate activities that promote learning and development.
• Support and interact with children, creating a safe and stimulating environment.
• Provide feedback on progress and track developmental milestones.
• Help with daily activities such as shopping, running errands, and food preparation.
• Help with personal care tasks.
• Organise and participate in social activities and outings.
• Provide companionship, fostering meaningful relationships.
• Promote an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
• Administrative duties, such as record-keeping and ensuring compliance with documentation.

Who is my Employer and who do I work for?

Y Careers is your legal employer and will pay your salary, as well as provide a range of tailored supports and coordinate your work placement and training program. You will be ‘hosted’ to a partner organisation within the care industry which could include Disability, Aged Care, Early Childhood Education and Care or Out of School Hours Care.

Is there an age limit for Traineeships?

Our current program is funded to deliver a young person aged between 18 and 26.

What support will I receive as a Trainee?

As a Y Careers trainee, you will receive:

• Personalised employment support
• Job matching and placement
• Career Coaching
• Ongoing training and learning

What is the duration of the Traineeship and how many hours per week will I have to work?

A full-time trainee is employed under a training contract to work for 38 hours per week for 12 months. Trainees also receive annual leave, sick leave, public holidays, and breaks. A part-time trainee is employed under a training contract to work a minimum of 13 or 21 hours per week depending on your state requirements and receives applicable award conditions.
 

What qualification will I be required to complete, and do I have to pay for it?

All Trainees will study a Certificate III or above and there is no cost for the education. 

• Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) - Cert III in Early Childhood Education and Care or Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
• Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) - Cert III in Community Services, Cert III in Outside School Hours Care Or a qualification deemed equivalent, subject to state and territory training requirements
• Aged Care - Cert III in Individual Support with an option for a 2nd-year traineeship studying a Cert IV in Aged Care
• Disability - Cert III in Individual Support with an optional 2nd-year traineeship studying a Cert IV in Disability Support

How much will I be paid?

This will depend on the type of traineeship that is undertaken.

• Full-time traineeship in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), Disability or Aged Care is $24.17 per hour, plus super.
• Part-time traineeship in Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) is $24.17 per hour + applicable award conditions.

What is the cost of doing the program?

There’s no cost to trainees, they will be paid to complete their training.