The Victorian Government is promoting a series of incentives designed to encourage more people from multicultural communities to choose teaching as a career, recognising that teachers are the foundation of Australia’s future.
Support includes scholarships, employment-based teaching degrees that allow participants to earn while they learn, assistance in securing their first role, and competitive salaries once in the workforce. Teachers also benefit from strong career progression opportunities and the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people.
Minister for Education, The Hon. Ben Carroll, said the incentives reaffirm Victoria’s position as the Education State.
“Victoria leads the nation in education because we know teachers are the cornerstone of our future. They create the thinkers, leaders and innovators of tomorrow and we want to give them every opportunity to thrive,” Minister Carroll said.
As classrooms across Victoria become more diverse, the State faces a growing need for passionate teachers who reflect the communities they serve. Teachers not only inspire young minds, but also shape the future professionals who will drive Australia’s prosperity, from engineers and doctors to writers, scientists and entrepreneurs.
On why Victoria needs more teachers from multicultural backgrounds, Minister Carroll commented saying:
“As one of the most diverse places in the world, it’s imperative that our classrooms reflect the richness of our state. When students see their languages, cultures and identities reflected in their teachers, it creates a stronger sense of belonging and helps every child feel that their future is limitless.”
Vietnamese-Australian and new teacher Cindy Huynh shared how government support helped her begin her teaching journey. Growing up, Cindy always thought she’d end up in medicine — but a tutoring job in her student years revealed that her true calling was in the classroom.
“After my undergrad, I knew I didn’t want to do another four-year degree. With my employment-based Master’s degree, I’m getting paid to teach while I study, and I’m in the classroom sooner, all while building a solid foundation for once I’ve graduated,” Cindy said.
Now completing her Master of Teaching (Secondary) (Internship), Cindy teaches Year 8 and 9 maths and science at the same high school she attended a decade ago. She says returning to her former school has been “a full-circle experience” — learning alongside some of her past teachers while inspiring the next generation.
“There’s something special about how we connect with students,” she explained. “Teaching, like medicine, is about problem-solving — understanding needs and finding the right approach to help someone grow. When my students find belonging or master a concept, it’s incredibly fulfilling.”
For Cindy, teaching has become more than a career path — it’s a way to give back to her community and create the same kind of supportive learning environment that shaped her own future.
A meaningful career with lifelong impact
Teaching is one of the most respected professions in Australia. For many in multicultural communities, education is held close to the heart, with teachers seen as mentors and role models who change lives.
Victorian teacher Victoria Zivave, who moved to Australia from Zimbabwe and is now a Lead Teacher at a special developmental school said:
“Coming from Zimbabwe, I have a deep sense of community and value how much education can change the direction of your whole life. Teaching is definitely my passion and my calling.”
For those looking for an opportunity to make a difference, the Victorian Government is also offering subsidised and supported rural teaching placements for pre-service teachers. Rural and regional placements give teachers the chance to support communities where quality education can have the greatest impact, while also building their own skills.
Career progression and leadership opportunities
Beyond its life-changing community impact, teaching also offers robust professional development and career advancement opportunities. Career pathways often go from classroom teacher through to leadership roles such as Leading Teacher, Assistant Principal or Principal.
Commenting on this, Victoria Zivave said:
“Career progression has always been important to me. I’ve had the chance to grow while continuing to empower students. Teaching is a leadership role from day one, and it opens doors to so many opportunities.”
For more information on teaching pathways and incentives, visit: www.vic.gov.au/teachthefuture
The Department of Education aims to provide every student in Victoria with equal access to high-quality public education. The recent Teach the Future campaign aims to attract more people to teaching in Victorian government schools. The campaign is part of a $1.8b investment to continue building a strong and sustainable school workforce in Victoria.
