Fast Forward Careers · Australia
Too many young people leave school with hundreds of options and no direction. We're here to change that — bridging the gap between education and meaningful work.
Founded by an HR professional with 10+ years of hiring experience · Researching with students, parents, schools & employers across Australia
The gap
Young people are asked to pick a career before they know their own strengths — while employers want experience from candidates who've never had the chance to build it.
So students guess their subjects, and graduates apply for jobs because "I need a job" — not because the work fits.
We believe there's a better way. But first, we're listening.
Subject choices made without knowing what's actually out there.
Businesses want job-ready candidates who never got the chance to get ready.
And young people, families, schools and businesses all feel it.
Our research
We're researching what young people really need to move from education into meaningful work. Your answers shape what we build next. It takes about 5 minutes — and every voice counts.
Figuring out your subjects, your first job, or your next step? Tell us what's actually confusing about it — no wrong answers.
Take the youth survey → 02 ParentsYou want to help your child find their path — but the world of work has changed since you started out. Tell us what support your family needs.
Take the parent survey → 03 SchoolsYou see the gap every day. Help us understand what schools need to prepare students for what comes after the classroom.
Take the schools survey → 04 EmployersStruggling to find job-ready candidates? Tell us what skills and experience you actually need from the next generation.
Take the business survey → 05 EveryoneStraight path, winding road or still searching — however you got here, your story helps us map what really works. Everyone's welcome.
Share your story →Your responses are confidential and used only to inform Fast Forward Careers' research.
The story
Deanna Gordon · Founder
Hi, I'm Deanna.
In Year 11, my school handed each of us a book with hundreds of careers listed A to Z. I walked out of that hall just as confused as I walked in.
I followed my friends into childcare — I thought, who doesn't like kids? — and a few years later realised it wasn't for me. For years I worked jobs that paid the bills but felt like something was missing: a career that actually fit.
After more than 10 years in Human Resources, I hear that answer every week. But when I ask people what they'd do if they could choose anything — they light up, and start telling me their plans, their ideas, their dreams.
That's the gap Fast Forward Careers was born to close — helping young people discover careers that fit who they are and where they can thrive.
This is the beginning of my dream career: helping others discover theirs.
Support the research ↑Our vision
To become Australia's leading bridge between education and employment — connecting young people with the skills, experiences, networks and opportunities they need to succeed in the future workforce.
Helping young people understand their strengths and the pathways open to them.
Helping young people discover career options, pathways and opportunities they may not know exist.
Linking students, schools and employers around real opportunities.
FAQ
Your experience — as a student, parent, educator or employer — is exactly what this research needs. Have your say.
Take the survey ↑