How do I find work that’s meaningful?
If you’re between 18 and 26, chances are you’ve felt it: the pressure to “figure out your career” while also wanting it to mean something. Money matters (of course) but more than anything, you want work that aligns with your values, allows you to make a difference, and doesn’t feel like just another grind.
You’re not alone. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, nearly 90% of Gen Zs and millennials say a sense of purpose is important to their job satisfaction and well-being. But here’s the catch: Australian Gen Zs are more likely to leave a job because it lacks purpose compared to the global average. In other words, it’s not just about finding any job, it’s about finding one that makes you feel fulfilled.
So, how do you find work that genuinely matters? Let’s break it down
Meaningful work is personal, it’s not just a fancy title or a paycheck. For many young people, meaningful work is:
Helping others: Being part of something bigger than yourself, whether that’s caring for children, supporting older Australians, or contributing to your local community.
Seeing tangible impact: Feeling that your efforts actually make a difference in people’s lives.
Aligning with values: Working somewhere that resonates with your beliefs and passions, not just your bank account.
Research from a study by Michael Steger and his colleagues in 2012 found that people who find their work meaningful report higher levels of happiness, engagement, and overall life satisfaction.
Conversely, a lack of purpose is a top reason young people switch jobs, sometimes after only a few months. That’s a costly and frustrating cycle, but it doesn’t have to be.
Start with self reflection
Before you even start, take some time to figure out what matters most to you. Ask yourself:
What do I enjoy doing?
When do I feel most fulfilled or proud?
What issues or communities do I care about?
You don’t need to have your whole career mapped out, but understanding your values and interests is the first step in finding meaningful jobs.
For example, if you love working with people and making a difference in their daily lives, traineeships in early education and care might be perfect. These are roles where your contribution is tangible every single day, from helping a child learn, supporting someone living with a disability or caring for an older person to live independently.
Explore career pathways
Once you’ve got a clearer sense of your values, it’s time to explore what’s next. The good news? Meaningful careers don’t always require a university degree. Practical experience, passion, and the right support often matter more when it comes to long-term fulfilment.
Through Y Careers, you can earn while you learn, gain nationally recognised qualifications, and make a genuine impact. Here are some of the most rewarding pathways to explore:
Early Childhood Education & Care
Shape young minds during their most formative years. Build skills in communication, leadership, and creativity — all while making a real difference.
→ 18-month traineeship studying a Cert III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Out of School Hours Care (OSHC)
Support school-aged children to learn, play, and connect in fun, safe environments.
→ 18-month part-time traineeship studying a Cert III in Outside School Hours Care or Cert III in Community Services, with the option to continue into a Diploma of School Age Education and Care.
Aged Care
Make a direct impact on the lives of older Australians through care, compassion, and connection.
→ 12-month traineeship studying a Cert III in Individual Support, with pathways to a Cert IV in Ageing Support or Diploma of Community Services.
→ Lifestyle & Wellbeing traineeship: 12-month program studying a Cert IV in Leisure and Health, with the option to progress to a Diploma of Community Services.
Why traineeships are a game changer
If you’re looking for meaningful work without committing to a long university degree, traineeships are one of the smartest ways to start. Here’s why:
Earn while you learn: Unlike many entry-level jobs, traineeships provide both practical experience and a salary. You don’t have to choose between making money and gaining skills.
Real-world experience: You’ll develop workplace skills that go beyond what you learn in a classroom. This includes teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
Guidance from a Career Coach: You won’t be navigating your first job alone. Every trainee gets a dedicated Career Coach to support your growth, provide advice, and help you make the most of your opportunities.
Pathway to further opportunities: Completing a traineeship often opens doors to full-time employment or advanced study in your chosen field.
Meaningful impact: Traineeships in early education, aged care, and disability support are especially rewarding because you get to see the results of your work every day, whether it’s a child learning to read, an older person enjoying better support at home, or helping someone with disability gain independence.
At Y Careers, we specialise in helping young Australians discover these opportunities. Our programs are designed to connect career seekers with roles that aren’t just jobs, but stepping stones toward a meaningful career.
Get started after Year 12
If you’ve recently finished Year 12, you might feel lost in a sea of options. University, TAFE, a traineeship, full-time work- the choices can be overwhelming. Here’s how to approach it:
Assess your interests and strengths: Take some career quizzes, talk to mentors, or reflect on experiences where you felt proud and engaged.
Research industries with purpose: Look for sectors that align with your values like health, education, social services, and sustainability are often good starting points.
Consider traineeships: They’re an excellent bridge between school and long-term careers, especially in early education and aged care.
Seek guidance: Career advisors, mentors, and programs like Y Careers can help you navigate pathways and find opportunities tailored to your goals.
The key is to take proactive steps rather than waiting for the “perfect job” to appear. Even small experiences, like volunteering or traineeships, can clarify what you enjoy and where you want to go.
The stats don't lie
Meaningful work isn’t just a “nice idea” it has real benefits. Here are a few stats worth noting:
90% of Gen Zs and 92% of millennials consider a sense of purpose to be important to their job satisfaction and well-being. (Deloitte, 2025)
Australian Gen Zs are more likely than global peers to quit a job due to lack of purpose. (Deloitte, 2025)
Employees who feel their work is meaningful are 3 times more likely to stay at a job and report higher well-being. (Harvard Business Review, 2023)
Number of trainees in health, education, and disability services has been steadily growing in Australia, reflecting demand and opportunity for career development. (NCVER, 2022)
The takeaway? Prioritizing meaning isn’t just good for your soul, it’s smart for your career longevity.
How we can help
Finding meaningful work can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Y Careers offers programs and guidance for young Australians looking to start careers with purpose. We help career seekers explore pathways, connect with traineeships, and gain hands-on experience in the education and care industry.
When you become a trainee through Y Careers, you also get access to a career coach who supports you throughout your journey. Your coach helps you settle into your role, develop your skills, and navigate the next steps in your career.
Our approach is simple:
Discover your strengths and interests through tailored assessments and workshops.
Connect with employers offering meaningful roles that align with your values.
Gain hands-on experience in traineeships that make a real impact, with guidance from your career coach.
Whether you’re fresh out of Year 12 or exploring early career opportunities, Y Careers ensures your first steps aren’t just about a paycheck, they’re about building a career that matters.
Key takeaways
Meaningful work is about impact, alignment with values, and seeing the difference you make.
Self-reflection is essential — understanding your passions and strengths guides you toward the right path.
Traineeships in areas like early education and aged care provide both financial support and real-world experience.
Post-Year 12 pathways don’t have to be intimidating — start small, explore, and learn as you go.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to find a job, it’s to build a career that feels like you, a career that energizes you, challenges you, and leaves a real impact.
So, if you’re ready to stop scrolling through job ads that don’t excite you and start building a career that matters, check out Y Careers. Your meaningful work journey starts here.