Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
Qualification Level
Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
A counsellor gives skilled support to people facing personal, social, career, or school-related problems. They use proven therapy methods to help clients build insight and better coping skills. Counsellors work in many settings, from hospitals and schools to private practice.
The field is growing fast. Australia has 40,100 employed counsellors, with 2,800 new roles each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Rising awareness of mental health is driving this growth in all sectors.
Counselling in Australia has no set government licence. Even so, most employers expect ACA or PACFA membership. Both bodies set clear rules for ethics, practice, and ongoing training. Membership shows clients a real drive for good, ethical care.
The median full-time salary is about $112,000 per year (ABS, May 2025). New counsellors start at around $65,000. Senior roles in clinical or corporate settings can reach $140,000 or more. Compare counselling degrees and diplomas on StudySelect to plan your pathway.
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.
