Career development support
RSL Queensland provides tailored career development support for eligible transitioning and ex-serving Defence members, and the partners of current or ex-serving Defence members.
Available Australia-wide, this free service is designed to help you build a meaningful, sustainable career.
Navigate your career journey with confidence
Are you transitioning from Defence, or exploring different career or study paths? Re-entering the workforce? Seeking greater balance, satisfaction or purpose? Or not sure of your career goals?
Wherever you are on your career journey, our expert career consultants are here to guide you – free of charge.
They’ll work with you to understand yourself, the job market and how to progress towards a sustainable, rewarding career.
Don't know where to start?
What we offer
Our service is built on the principles of lifelong learning, self-awareness and informed decision-making, as outlined in the Australian Blueprint for Career Development. We help you:
Explore your career options
Identify your strengths, values and interests through personalised career counselling. Discover career paths that align with your unique experience and aspirations.
Gain insights for success
Understand current job market trends and emerging industries. Explore upskilling opportunities, vocational training and educational pathways that support your goals.
Build a career action plan
Receive a tailored, step-by-step plan to help you move forward with clarity and purpose. Get connected with trusted education providers, training organisations and employment services.
Receive ongoing support
Our consultants provide guidance as you progress, helping you to navigate the tertiary education environment (if applicable) and adapt and grow in your career journey.
How we can support you
Our career development support can help you:
- identify ideal career options for your experience, strengths, needs and passions
- optimise your job satisfaction and work-life balance
- understand job prospects and study or training requirements for different careers
- gain clarity and confidence on your career goals and direction
- start a new career or re-enter the workforce.
Why contact RSL Queensland?
Free nationwide
This free service is available right across Australia. We can help you online or via phone.
Experts who care
Speak to caring, professional career counsellors and rehabilitation consultants. Our team has an in-depth understanding of veterans’ and partners’ career needs and opportunities.
1:1 guidance tailored for you
We offer career counselling tailored for your needs, strengths and job market realities, helping you towards a fulfilling, long-term career.
Best practice tools and resources
Our support is grounded in Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA) best practices and aligned with the Career Development Blueprint.
Take the first step today
Your next chapter starts with a conversation. Whether you have a clear goal or are just beginning to explore, we’re here to help you build a fulfilling future.
Let us help guide you towards your ideal career
Get in touch with the RSL career development team, who can provide you with free support online or over the phone.
Frequently asked questions
Learn more about our career development support service.
Am I eligible for this service?
Am I eligible for this service?
RSL Queensland’s career development support is available to:
- current serving Defence members who:
- reside in Australia
- have completed at least one day of continuous full-time service in the ADF
- have a confirmed discharge date no later than four months in the future
- are aware of Defence Force Transition Program (DFTP) entitlements
- are not currently in a Defence or DVA work rehabilitation program that offers vocational components
- ex-serving Defence members who:
- reside in Australia
- have completed at least one day of continuous full-time service in the ADF
- are not currently in or eligible for the DVA Work Rehabilitation Program or Veterans’ Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme (VVRS)
- partners who:
- reside in Australia
- are the spouse or de facto partner of a current or ex-serving ADF member who has completed at least one day of continuous full-time service.
Do I need to attend appointments in person?
Do I need to attend appointments in person?
Can you help me find a job?
Can you help me find a job?
If you’re ready to find a job, we can connect you with the free RSL Employment Program, which helps ex-Defence members and current or ex-serving Defence members’ partners find meaningful work.
Is there a cost involved?
Is there a cost involved?
All services and activities undertaken with our career consultants are free of charge.
If you’re interested in pursuing study or training, our consultants can help advise you on possible study or training costs.
Scholarships and other funding opportunities are available through various organisations – please see below.
Do you offer funding for study or training?
Do you offer funding for study or training?
Our career development support is designed to help you make informed career decisions that align with your strengths, needs, passions and job market realities.
If you wish to pursue study or training, there are scholarships and other funding opportunities (listed below) available through various organisations.
For transitioning and ex-Defence members:
- Defence: If you’re transitioning out of service, please refer to the assistance available under the Defence Force Transition Program (DFTP).
- DVA: A range of financial and other assistance is available through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Rehabilitation Program.
- SoldierOn
- TAFE Queensland: Defence to Civilian Success Training Program (email defence@tafeqld.edu.au)
- TAFE NSW: Fee-Free* Short Courses & Full Qualifications
- TAFE Victoria: Free TAFE
- University of Southern Queensland:
- University of the Sunshine Coast: Caloundra RSL Sub Branch Scholarship
- Wandering Warriors
For partners:
- SoldierOn
- TAFE Queensland: Defence to Civilian Success Training Program (email defence@tafeqld.edu.au)
- TAFE NSW: Fee-Free* Short Courses & Full Qualifications
- TAFE Victoria: Free TAFE
- University of the Sunshine Coast: Caloundra RSL Sub Branch Scholarship
For children or grandchildren of veterans (veteran dependants):
- Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT): Scholarships for veteran dependants are available through our partnership with AVCAT. Applications open annually from 18 August to 31 October. Learn more.
- TAFE NSW: Fee-Free* Short Courses & Full Qualifications
- TAFE Victoria: Free TAFE
- University of the Sunshine Coast: Caloundra RSL Sub Branch Scholarship
