Careerify

Be ready for your first payday: Setting up a bank account

Careerify Editor — Mon, 25 May 2026 06:29:55 +0000

Why you need one
Types of accounts
Debit vs Credit
What you need to start
How to setup an account
Managing your money

Starting your first bank account is a smart move you can make before your first payday. If you’ve got a job lined up – or you’re thinking about getting one soon – having an account ready means you’ll be able to get paid without delays or last-minute stress.

Whether you’re about to earn your first wage, receive study payments, or just want a safe place to manage your money, getting set up early puts you in a strong position. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics – no stress, no jargon.

Why You Might Need a Bank Account

A bank account makes everyday life easier. You can:

Get paid from a job
Receive Centrelink or scholarship payments
Pay for things online or in-store
Track your spending and save money

Having your own account also sets you up to build strong money habits early on – something that becomes even more important when you start earning your own income and paying tax. If you’re new to managing money, check out these simple budgeting tips to help you manage your money for a great next step.

Debit Cards vs Credit Cards (what’s the difference?)

When you open your bank account, you’ll usually get a debit card. While credit cards are also available for people over 18, they work quite differently.

A debit card uses your own money. When you buy something, the amount comes straight out of your account. This makes it easier to stay on budget and avoid spending more than you have.

A credit card, on the other hand, lets you borrow money from the bank and pay it back later. While this can be useful in some situations, it also comes with risks like interest charges and the potential to overspend. The more you spend and not pay back, the more interest you will be charged.

For most students and first-time earners, a debit card is the better place to start. It keeps things simple, helps you build good money habits, and gives you the flexibility to pay for things almost anywhere – without getting into debt.

If you wish to make purchases online and internationally, a Visa or Mastercard debit card is a great option and dosn’t require you to be 18. The card links directly to your everyday bank account. It functions by letting you spend your own money – rather than borrowing on credit.

Types of bank accounts (what students usually choose)

Most students start with an everyday transaction account. This is used for regular spending and payments.

You might also consider:

Savings account – A place to store money and earn interest
Student account – Some banks offer accounts tailored for young people with fewer fees

Tip: Look for accounts with no monthly fees and free transactions.

What you need to open an account

When opening a bank account in Australia, you’ll need to prove your identity. This is called the 100-point ID check.

Common documents include:

Passport
Driver licence or learner permit
Birth certificate
Student ID (sometimes)

You may also be asked for your Tax File Number (TFN).

A TFN is your personal reference number in Australia’s tax system, and you’ll need one when you start working, studying or applying for government support.

Not sure what a TFN is or how to get one? Read Tax 101: Why it pays to learn early to understand the basics.

If you’re under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian to be involved.

How to set up a bank account (step-by-step)

1. Compare your options

Different banks offer different features. Check:

Fees (monthly or transaction fees)
ATM access
Online and mobile banking options
Interest rates for savings

2. Apply online or in person

Most banks let you apply online in minutes. Or you can visit a branch if you prefer face-to-face support.

3. Verify your identity

Upload documents online or show them in person.

4. Set up online banking

Download the bank’s app or log in via your computer to:

Check your balance
Transfer money
Pay bills

5. Receive your card

Your debit card will arrive in the mail. Some banks also let you start spending straight away using your phone.

Managing your money (smart habits)

Once your account is set up, here are a few simple habits to get started:

Track your spending – Know where your money is going
Set a budget – Plan what you can afford each week
Build savings – Even small amounts add up
Use a separate savings account – This can help you avoid spending money meant for future goals
Watch out for scams – Never share your PIN or passwords

Budgeting doesn’t need to be complicated. As Careerify explains, a budget helps you understand where your money goes and make small changes that can lead to big savings over time.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a bank account is a simple but important step toward managing your money and planning your future. Pair it with a basic budget and an understanding of tax, and you’ll be in a strong position to stay in control of your finances and avoid unnecessary stress.

Start small, build good habits, and back yourself – you’ve got this

Key takeaway

Start simple – using your own money from day one helps you stay in control, build strong habits, and avoid unnecessary debt as you begin earning.

Celebrating a decade of impact and community connection

Careerify Editor — Thu, 07 May 2026 06:31:29 +0000

This month marks a significant milestone for one of Hobart’s most community‑focused hospitality venues, with The Hamlet Café celebrating its 10‑year anniversary. Over the past decade, the café has become known not only for its food and coffee, but for its strong commitment to inclusive employment – particularly its support for people with barriers to traditional work pathways.

Since opening in 2016, The Hamlet Café has intentionally created opportunities for people who are often underrepresented in the workforce. This includes providing flexible, supportive roles for people with disability, neurodivergent individuals, and those re‑entering employment or building confidence in early career stages.

From the outset, inclusion was built into the business model. Rather than focusing solely on productivity, the café prioritised capability-building, job customisation and supportive supervision – allowing staff to grow at their own pace while developing practical, transferable skills.

“Employment is about more than a job title,” said Emily, co-founder of The Hamlet Café. “It’s about confidence, routine, connection and being valued for what you can contribute. We’ve always believed hospitality can be a powerful space for that.”

Over ten years, the café has supported many employees with disability to gain real-world work experience across customer service, food preparation, teamwork and workplace communication. For some, Hamlet was their first paid job. For others, it was a pathway to ongoing employment or further training.

This people-first approach has not only benefited employees, but strengthened the workplace culture. Staff describe the café as an environment where strengths are recognised, adjustments are normalised, and learning is encouraged. Customers, too, have embraced the culture – often citing the warmth and authenticity of service as part of what keeps them coming back.

Beyond employment, The Hamlet Café has remained deeply connected to the local community, partnering with Tasmanian suppliers and engaging with organisations that support inclusive participation. These partnerships reinforce a shared belief that small businesses can play a meaningful role in shaping a more accessible and equitable local economy.

As Hobart continues to evolve, the café’s decade-long journey stands as a practical example of how inclusive employment can work in everyday settings – not as a special initiative, but as business as usual.

To mark the 10‑year anniversary, The Hamlet Café is celebrating the people behind the counter as much as the milestone itself – past and present staff, many of whom have gone on to further employment, training and leadership roles.

If you would like to learn more about training and career opportunities at Hamlet, they would love to hear from you. You can get in touch using the contacts on this page.

Jai’s journey from the workshop to apprenticeship

Careerify Editor — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:05:14 +0000

VET graduate Jai Scoles completed a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways through TasTAFE in 2025 and has since secured an apprenticeship as a mechanical fitter with Incat, helping to build the company’s world‑renowned aluminium vessels for Tasmanian, interstate and international markets.

Growing up in southern Tasmania, Jai always had a strong interest in hands‑on work. After finishing Grade 12, he initially pursued his passion for cars, completing VET Automotive Certificates I and II at school.

In early 2025, Jai began an auto apprenticeship, but soon realised that turning his hobby into a full‑time job took away the enjoyment he once had. After six months, he made the decision to change direction.

With his enthusiasm renewed, Jai returned to working on his own car at home before enrolling in TasTAFE’s Certificate II in Engineering Pathways in the second half of 2025.

“I’d always been interested in metal work and fabrication and really wanted to learn how to weld,” Jai said. “TasTAFE was close to home, and the course was starting at just the right time.”

Halfway through the five‑month program, an apprenticeship opportunity became available at Incat. During the interview, Jai highlighted the practical skills he had already developed.

“The experience I picked up over those first few months definitely helped,” he said. “I already had some knowledge of techniques and processes, which made the transition into work much easier.”

As a new apprentice, Jai began in Incat’s training bay, learning aluminium welding, fabrication and hand‑tool skills specific to the role. His prior training gave him a clear advantage.

Looking back, Jai credits both his teachers and the industry‑standard facilities for supporting his success.

“They really encouraged you to push yourself and take on more challenges, which made the learning experience even better.”

Read the full story on the TasTAFE website

Mars Buttfield-Addison

Careerify Editor — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:58:43 +0000

“As technologists, we also sometimes have to fight against the idea of Tasmania as bespoke, handcrafted, and old-timey, of not being cutting edge. Most people don’t know that there are people down here making world-leading software.”

Mars first became a regular visitor to Tasmania’s west coast with employment and outreach programs run by the University of Tasmania or as part of National Science Week. The more time she spent there, the more she loved it.

Surrounded by cool-temperate rainforest and stormy seas, Strahan is one of the best places in Tasmania to view the night sky. Mars Buttfield-Addison dreams of waking there every morning, walking to the Coffee Shack, and on to the community science centre she hopes to create with her husband, Paris. “I would talk to kids all day about their weird and wacky questions… Then I would go home, sip tea in a hammock, and look at the forest. And then I’d go to bed, wake up, and do it all again.”

Her connection with Tasmania’s west coast grew through University of Tasmania outreach programs and National Science Week. As a science communicator, her goal is to spark curiosity for its own sake. “We don’t know what the future world will look like… The best thing we can wish for people is that they can choose to do something because it interests them.”

“Scientific computing systems need to be really accurate and high-performance but also tailored very specifically to the needs of each domain. I don’t know anyone in tech who works on problems as diverse as I do, but I’m loving it.”

Mars grew up in Logan, south-east Queensland. “We didn’t know until I was in primary school, but I am autistic, so I didn’t have a typical childhood experience,” she says. Reading was a powerful ritual, and she quickly outpaced adults around her. Her family supported her wide-ranging interests — “I was an everything kid,” she laughs — and teachers and librarians helped her explore them.

High school proved challenging, and Mars left early, working various jobs before deciding on a drastic change after her great‑grandmother died. “One day, I quit my job, packed my car Rhonda the Honda up to the roof, and drove away to Tasmania…” The calm she felt convinced her she had found home.

Encouraged by her mother, she visited a university open day despite not finishing high school. Inspired by the alternative pathways coordinator, she enrolled. After excelling for six months, she was told to choose a degree. Unsure where to start, she eventually chose technology and threw herself into the local community. GovHack introduced her to real-world programmers — “And also where I met my husband.”

Tasmania’s tech scene gave her opportunities and confidence. A lucky conversation at a conference led to her writing a book for O’Reilly while still an undergraduate. She fell in love with practical machine learning and saw herself as a support scientist: “As a blacksmith is to a knight, so I am to scientists.”

Her passion for teaching grew alongside her expertise. “When I started being asked to give talks and write books, I rapidly realised I liked teaching people more than just learning myself.”

Now working on a PhD with UTAS and CSIRO on tracking space junk, she blends her interests in astronomy and environmental conservation. She has become a prolific communicator through festivals, schools, and international teaching.

Though Mars often describes her path as luck, she recognises the importance of community. “The idea that it takes a village is true in every aspect.” Above all, she aims to help people realise they can understand things they once thought impossible. “I want to be part of that for kids, adults, everyone.”

To read the full story visit tasmanian.com.au/stories/mars-buttfield-addison/

Story courtesy of Brand Tasmania

Find out more

Explore pathways into technology and software development through the Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology at the University of Tasmania, along with VET options like the Certificate IV in Information Technology at TasTAFE. Build practical skills in programming, cybersecurity, data analytics, and systems development, supported by hands‑on projects and industry‑connected learning experiences.

Even while you’re still in school, you can begin building your future through Work-based Learning (WBL), School-based Apprenticeships (ASbA), and VET qualifications. These programs give you hands-on experience and real-world skills to prepare for a successful career as a professional athlete or in sport science and performance support roles.

Take a quiz, find your future

Curious about the kinds of problem‑solving involved in different jobs? Our Industry Quizzes webpage offers a range of short activities that aren’t formal tests of reading or maths, but they can give you a clearer sense of the skills you already use and the ones you might want to build.

Let’s get started!

Making the right connections with VET

Careerify Editor — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:50:47 +0000

TasTAFE’s Certificate II in Plumbing continues to open doors for learners across Tasmania. Following strong demand in Hobart, the program expanded to Devonport – where recent graduate Tiannah Leonard secured an apprenticeship with Hadspen Plumbing & Gas after impressing during her work placement.

Led by TasTAFE plumbing teacher Sam Willan, the Certificate II program gives learners a hands-on introduction to key plumbing streams such as roofing, sanitary work, maintenance, and basic gas. Alongside technical skills, learners build workplace essentials like safety awareness, communication, reliability, and work ethic – helping them feel job‑ready from day one.

The course attracts people at all stages of life, from school leavers to career changers. Learners spend three days a week on campus and two days in industry placements, gaining valuable exposure with suppliers and local plumbing businesses.

For Tiannah, the experience was a turning point. After exploring different work options, she “gave plumbing a go” and discovered a trade she loves. The skills she learned at TasTAFE helped her transition smoothly into the workplace, where she now tackles everything from hot water units to gas, drainage, and general maintenance. She’s now continuing on to her Certificate III in Plumbing while gaining real‑world experience every week.

Tiannah says the connections TasTAFE provides made all the difference:
“I wouldn’t have this opportunity if I didn’t do the Certificate II course.”

TasTAFE’s Certificate II in Plumbing is starting again this March at both the Devonport and Clarence campuses – an ideal first step for anyone curious about a plumbing career.

Read the full story on the TasTAFE website

National Volunteer Week

Careerify Editor — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 03:54:27 +0000

Between the 18-24 May, Australia is celebrating National Volunteer Week, and it’s all about recognising the legends who give their time, skills and energy to make communities stronger. From beach clean‑ups and mentoring programs to arts festivals and emergency support, volunteers are everywhere – and honestly, things wouldn’t work without them.

But volunteering isn’t just about helping others. For young people, it can also be a serious career glow‑up.

Volunteering = real skills, real impact

Think volunteering is just something you do “on the side”? Think again. Volunteering helps you build real‑world skills that employers actually care about – like teamwork, communication, problem‑solving and leadership. It’s hands‑on experience you can put straight on your resume (and actually talk about confidently in interviews).

Whether you’re still studying, job‑hunting, or figuring out your next move, volunteering can help you:

Try out different industries without the pressure
Build confidence and independence
Grow your professional network
Discover what you don’t want to do (just as useful!)

Young people are already stepping up

Across Australia, young volunteers are showing up in big ways – supporting mental health initiatives, helping run community events, tutoring students, protecting the environment and backing causes they genuinely care about.

For many, volunteering is also about finding purpose and feeling connected, especially during times when work or study feels uncertain. It’s a reminder that your time and skills matter, and that even small actions can make a big difference.

Not sure where to start? You’ve got options

The best part? There’s no one “right” way to volunteer. You can:

Volunteer once or weekly
Get involved online or in person
Choose causes aligned with your values
Use skills you already have – or build new ones from scratch

Love social media? Help a nonprofit with content. Into tech? Support digital projects. Passionate about community? Jump into local events or mentoring programs. Volunteering is flexible, and there’s something for everyone.

National volunteer week is your sign

National Volunteer Week is more than a thank you – it’s an invitation. An invitation to get involved, try something new, meet inspiring people and build skills that last way beyond the placement itself.

So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to do something meaningful (and boost your future at the same time)… this is it.

Get curious. Get involved. Get volunteering.

ABC Takeover Storytelling Workshops – Tamar Valley

Careerify Editor — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:03:00 +0000

The Takeover Storytelling Workshop gives young people a relaxed and supportive space to explore their own voice. The session helps participants understand how to share real‑life experiences in a safe and confident way. It also introduces simple tools that make storytelling easier, including how to build a strong personal narrative, how to show resilience through writing and how to spot bias in the media.

Workshops usually run for 45–60 minutes, but the team is happy to adjust the time and content to suit the group’s needs. By the end of the session, participants leave with fresh ideas, clear guidance and practical tips to help them start writing a story for the Takeover competition.

Who Delivers the Workshop?

The workshop is run by ABC producers from the Takeover team. They bring real experience in storytelling and media production, and they enjoy working with young people.

Who Can Take Part?

Workshops are open to schools, councils and community groups. Any group of young people in a Takeover region is welcome to participate. A minimum of five attendees is required, but groups are encouraged to reach out if they are unsure.

Cost

There is no cost to attend. The workshop is completely free. All the team asks is that participants plan to submit an entry to the Takeover competition.

How to Book

To book a workshop or ask questions, simply contact email Uma on srikantha.umayal@abc.net.au by the 6th March 2026.

www.abc.net.au/takeover/workshops

Hospitality graduates are keeping the industry humming

Careerify Editor — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:54:00 +0000

Tasmania’s hospitality scene is buzzing – from Hobart’s waterfront venues to regional cellar doors – and VET graduates are stepping confidently into the industry.

Jack Smith is one of them. After completing his Certificate II and III in Hospitality at TasTAFE, Jack completed a two‑week placement at the MACq01 Story Bar. His professionalism and people skills stood out, earning him an ongoing role at the iconic Hobart hotel.

Jack’s pathway is familiar to many VET learners. Some join straight from school, others return later in life for a career change – all building strong customer service, confidence, communication, and teamwork skills. TasTAFE’s hands‑on model, including shifts in Drysdale Restaurants across the state, helps learners step outside their comfort zone and gain real‑world experience.

Flexibility is another major drawcard. Learners can choose units tailored to where they already work – whether that’s a café, cellar door, B&B, or event venue – and study on‑campus or online with workplace assessment support.

With job opportunities spanning hotels, distilleries, restaurants, events, tourism, and more, Tasmania’s hospitality industry offers diverse pathways and room to grow. For Jack, the best part is simple: creating positive experiences. “When you look after someone and they feel good about it – that makes you feel good too.”

Interested in launching your hospitality career? Explore TasTAFE’s Certificate II and Certificate III in Hospitality (Fee‑Free TAFE available) and discover where the industry can take you.

Read the full article on the TasTAFE website

Mining and Manufacturing Career Awareness Program

Careerify Editor — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:08:29 +0000

The Mining and Manufacturing Career Awareness Program (MAMCAP) is a tailored initiative developed by the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council (TMEC) to help students explore career opportunities across the Mining and Manufacturing sectors.

Aligned with the Australian Secondary School Curriculum, the program includes an engaging presentation followed by a hands‑on activity showcasing the wide range of careers and pathway options available in these industries.

Schools can choose Mining or Manufacturing, or a presentation combining both. The program is designed for years 9 -12 students.

If you’re a student interested in a career in Mining or Advanced Manufacturing, speak with your teacher about organising a presentation from TMEC.

Career pathways in mining, manufacturing and energy

The mining, manufacturing and energy industries cover a diverse range of products and services – directly employing 25,800 Tasmanians and needing 10,000 more from all walks of life by 2040.

You can start some of your vocational training in school, choose an apprenticeship or traineeship with an employer or Group Training Organisation, or take a University pathway.

Learn more about pathways and careers.

Teacher education resources

Interactive school experiences

Discover the every day and extraordinary things made and mined in Tasmania as well as interactive experiences and curriculum-aligned programs for the classroom or at their TMEC headquarters.

Insight Tours for schools

Book an excursion hosted by TMEC where students learn first hand about the science, innovation and technology being used to drive a smarter, cleaner and diverse set of industries.

Learn more or register your interest to book your school group in for visits to their member industries for first hand learning about minerals, manufacturing and renewable energy.

From kitchen to community: Chloe’s recipe for a bright future

Careerify Editor — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:05:00 +0000

TasTAFE learner Chloe Bowen is taking huge strides in her cooking career, moving from a Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) into the TasTAFE kitchens, to cooking for charity organisations supporting Tasmanians in need.

Chloe grew up around Brighton north of Hobart and went to school at Jordan River Learning Federation Senior School in Bridgewater.

“I went all the way through to Grade 12 – and I always thought that I was going to work with animals and become a vet. But I changed my mind after volunteering in Jordan River’s ‘Paddock to Plate’ program, in the school kitchen,” Chloe said.

This school program gave Chloe an introduction to nutrition and food systems, and a taste of kitchen life – and it opened the door to her next opportunity.

“I hadn’t really thought about TasTAFE, but at school that year they picked a student to do an ASbA. And I was the one they chose.”

Across her ASbA, Chloe worked 2 days a week in the school kitchen while completing her Certificate II in Kitchen Operations at TasTAFE, working closely with Cookery Teacher Veronica Whitney.

Chloe then launched into a Certificate III in Catering Operations at TasTAFE, working with Cookery Teacher Michael Norton.

“Michael helped me with a lot of my theory work – helped me understand it. There was one unit – Plan and Cost Recipes – that I couldn’t really wrap my head around… But apart from having complications with that one unit, I found everything simple and easy to understand.”

Midway through her studies, an opportunity came up with Loaves & Fishes Tasmania, a statewide emergency food provider helping people in need.

In early 2023, Chloe became Loaves & Fishes’ first trainee in southern Tasmania, working in their Rokeby kitchen. More recently she relocated to Bethlehem House in central Hobart, a facility supporting men experiencing homelessness.

“It’s really nice to see all the guys at Bethlehem House enjoy the food,” Chloe said. “Some of them come from off the streets, or from somewhere where they don’t get to eat nice nutritious meals. So, it’s good to see them enjoy the food we make.”

Aaron Kropf, General Manager at Loaves & Fishes, has supported Chloe in her training journey, organising a placement opportunity at Cradle Mountain Lodge, and providing her with a mentor. Aaron has been extremely impressed with Chloe’s spirit, work ethic and growing confidence.

“When Chloe first joined our organisation, she was quiet and reserved and lacked confidence in her own ability. In the last 2 years we have seen Chloe grow into a confident young woman with an incredible work ethic and a real passion for food and cooking,” Aaron said.

“I have worked with hundreds of trainees in my 20 years in hospitality, but Chloe stands out. She brings passion, skills and commitment to everything she does – and provides an excellent example to all the trainees that she works with.

“Chloe will go a long way in this industry, and I see bright things ahead in her future. It has been such a pleasure to be a small part of her journey.”

What’s the next stop on Chloe’s journey?

“The next thing will be my Certificate III in Cooking Operations at TasTAFE,” Chloe said. “Hopefully Loaves & Fishes will keep me on for a bit longer after that…and then let me go off into the world!”

Article courtesy of TasTAFE