The Victorian Government is calling on people from multicultural communities to consider a career in teaching, with new incentives aimed at building a school workforce that reflects the state’s diversity and values education as the cornerstone of its future.
Support on offer includes scholarships, employment-based teaching degrees that let participants earn while they learn, assistance with their first teaching role, and strong career pathways once in the profession. Teachers can also expect competitive pay and opportunities for advancement, alongside the satisfaction of shaping young lives.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll said the range of measures strengthens Victoria’s reputation 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,” he said.
With classrooms across Victoria becoming more diverse, the government is looking to attract teachers who reflect the communities they serve. “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,” Minister Carroll said.
For Vietnamese-Australian teacher Cindy Huynh, the pathway to the classroom was made possible by the government’s employment-based Master’s program. “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,” she said.
For many in multicultural communities, education is deeply valued, with teachers seen as mentors who shape not only students but entire communities. Zimbabwe-born teacher Victoria Zivave, now a Lead Teacher at a special developmental school, said her upbringing gave her a lasting appreciation for the power of learning. “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.”
Zivave said the profession offers strong career growth alongside purpose. “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.”
The government is also encouraging pre-service teachers to take up supported rural placements, where their skills can make a difference in communities that need it most. The rural experience, the government says, allows teachers to develop professionally while delivering quality education where it has the greatest impact.
The Teach the Future campaign is part of a $1.8 billion investment to build a strong, sustainable public school workforce across Victoria.
For more information on incentives and pathways into teaching, visit www.vic.gov.au/teachthefuture.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
