Guidance Counsellor Courses
Guidance Counsellors support students, teachers, and parents in Australian schools, aiding emotional wellbeing and academic success.
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AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Guidance Counsellor
Get qualified to work as a Guidance Counsellor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Estimated fee
From $45,600
Study mode
On Campus, Online
The Master of Counselling (Advanced) is tailored to prepare students for roles that utilise counselling and coaching skills in specialised work environments, including community and business settings, to foster positive human change. This course enhances capabilities in offering counselling and support across various life stages, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. It equips students with a broad skill set for lifelong learning, resilience, and professional boundaries, essential for eff...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $45,600
Study mode
On Campus, Online
Find a provider
Estimated fee
From $30,888
Study mode
On Campus, Online
The Master of Education (Wellbeing) focuses on cultivating learning communities that bolster the wellbeing of both educators and pupils. It delves into strategies promoting confidence, resilience, and social and emotional learning. Educators will study diverse perspectives on wellbeing and practices that foster positive, inclusive learning atmospheres. Additionally, this course underscores the significance of family and community engagement in upholding the wellbeing of all within the educational setting.
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $30,888
Study mode
On Campus, Online
Find a provider
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Guidance Counsellor.
Common questions

How much do Guidance Counsellors earn?
According to recent job listings, salaries for Guidance Counsellors are in the range of $70,000 to $80,000 — with even higher salaries available at large private schools. Increase your earning capacity by obtaining post-graduate qualifications in psychology.

What are the job opportunities for Guidance Counsellors?
There are at least 2,700 Guidance Counsellors employed at Australian schools right now. They work for both public and private schools at all levels of education.

How do I become a Guidance Counsellor?
To become a Guidance Counsellor in Australia you first need to be a fully qualified teacher. Complete a Bachelor of Education, and then register as a teacher with the Department of Education in your state or territory.
Once you have your teaching credentials, there are two career pathways:
- Complete a Master of Education (School Guidance and Counselling), OR
- Become a qualified psychologist and register with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). This involves completing a Bachelor of Psychology plus a Master’s degree, working for at least one year as an intern, and then passing the National Psychology Exam.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
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More information
Guidance Counsellors provide counselling and support services to students, teachers, and parents at Australian schools — from prep right through to senior high. They are fully qualified teachers who have post-graduate qualifications in psychology, school guidance and counselling.
As a Guidance Counsellor you could be helping a new student settle into the school culture, counselling a student who is having troubles at home, helping a student set study goals, acting as a mediator between two students who are in conflict, contributing to the development of the school’s emotional wellbeing policies, running a mental health information session for teachers, or just managing your busy calendar.
Becoming a Guidance Counsellor takes many years of study and service. To succeed, you’ll need to be committed to your professional development and have the ability to develop authentic relationships and collaborations.
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