Why more people are becoming a teacher in Australia

Are you considering becoming a teacher in Australia? If so, you’re not alone. Universities around Australia are reporting rising interest in teaching courses. In some cases, enrolments have tripled compared to recent years.

At the University of Sydney, interest in teaching courses has increased by 61 per cent since 2019. Meanwhile, at Swinburne University in Melbourne, enrolments in the Bachelor of Teaching are increasing by 50 per cent a year.
Overall, since 2024, there has been a 7 per cent increase in teaching applications and a 14 per cent increase in offers for teaching courses

So what’s behind the rising interest in careers in teaching in Australia?

Why are more people interested in becoming a teacher in Australia?

University leaders say a rise in enrolments in teaching courses can be attributed to several factors. These include:

Government incentives

In recent years, governments have introduced incentives to encourage prospective students to study teaching.
For example, in December 2022, the federal government began offering scholarships of up to $40,000 for undergraduate teaching students in a bid to address the national teacher workforce shortage.

Desire to make a difference

Experts say there is a growing interest in careers that allow you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,
They say this is partially what is driving more students to pursue careers in fields such as teaching.

Flinders University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Romy Lawson said more students are recognising the crucial role teachers play.

“While it may take some time to see the full benefits in the teaching pipeline, the appeal of a career in education has returned, setting more students on a course to make a difference in young people’s lives,” he told the Courier Mail.

Ashleigh Lawrence is a teaching student at Griffith University. She says the ability of teachers to make a positive difference was a key factor in her decision to pursue teaching.

“With all the negativity in the world, people want to make a difference,” she told the Courier Mail.

Job security

In a rapidly changing world, the future of some careers is uncertain. However, demand for teachers is consistent and increasing. Therefore, teaching is an ideal choice for those who want a secure, stable career.

Job security was another factor that enticed Ashleigh Lawrence into teaching.

“With the unpredictability of future careers, due to technological advancements and the cost-of-living crisis, people want to go into careers that will not be superseded by technology, that provide stability and that are enjoyable,” She said.

Increased Pay

In recent times teachers in many states have experienced a pay rise. In October last year, NSW teachers agreed to a 3 per cent pay rise each year for 3 years. Meanwhile, in Western Australia teachers have agreed to a 12 per cent pay rise over 3 years.

Experts say this increased financial incentive is key to attracting prospective teachers to the industry.

A career in teaching isn’t without its challenges. Concerns about long hours and student behaviour remain. However, for many, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties — especially for those seeking a meaningful, stable career with strong long-term prospects.

If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in education, it’s important to be well-prepared — not just for study, but for the application process too. At Selection Criteria Writers, we offer more than just help with selection criteria writing. Our team provides tailored resume support and interview skills coaching to give you the best chance of success in your teaching career.

Article References

Indeed (19 May 2025) ‘Why Become a Teacher? 15 Reasons‘, Indeed, accessed 15 July 2025.

Novak, L & Baltutis, S (19 May 2025) ‘Universities across Australia reporting rising enrolments in teaching qualifications‘, The Advertiser, accessed 15 July 2025.

Panagopoulos, J (30 January 2025) ‘More undergraduates signing up for teaching: Labor’, The Australian, accessed 15 July 2025.

Public Service Resumes (n.d) ‘Why interest in teaching careers in Australia is growing, Public Service Resumes, accessed 15 July 2025.