How to Become an Employment Consultant in Australia

What does a Employment Consultant do?

Employment consultants help job seekers find and retain employment through Workforce Australia, Disability Employment Services (DES), and other government-funded employment programs — case managing client caseloads, developing individual employment plans, coaching clients on job search and interview skills, connecting clients to opportunities, and managing employer relationships for work placement. The role is relational and outcome-driven, typically involving caseloads of 80–150 active clients across metropolitan and regional communities. In Australia, the employment services sector employs thousands of consultants through Workforce Australia providers and DES organisations in every state and territory. Expanding DES funding and government investment in reducing long-term unemployment are sustaining strong demand, particularly for consultants supporting participants with disability and complex barriers to work.

Key responsibilities

• Case manage a caseload of job seekers
• Develop individual employment plans with clients
• Connect clients to suitable job opportunities
• Provide job search coaching and resume support
• Manage employer relationships and work placement
• Maintain compliance with government contract requirements

Qualifications for this role

Nationally recognised qualifications most commonly held by Employment Consultants in Australia.

Typical career progression

1. 1Employment Consultant → Senior Employment Consultant
2. 2Senior Employment Consultant → Team Leader
3. 3Team Leader → Employment Services Manager
4. 4Manager → Regional/State Manager

Skills in demand