Career Change at 50: 8 Practical Jobs You Can Start Now

Thinking about a new career path later in life? You’re not alone, and it’s far from too late. Career changes are increasingly common, with many people successfully transitioning to new professions at various stages of life. People of all ages, including those in their 50s and 60s, can pursue new careers and bring valuable experience to their chosen fields.

You might be seeking a better work-life balance, a more meaningful work environment, or a way to pivot careers without starting from scratch. Either way, there are plenty of career ideas tailored for over-50s and plenty of mature-age friendly courses that can help you get there.

Remember, making a career change at 50 is not about a midlife crisis, but about making a positive, strategic life decision. So let’s dive in!

At 40, 50 or 60+, you bring more than just work experience, you bring life experience. That can make you an incredible asset in roles that need empathy, patience, communication and leadership.

Here’s why a mid-life career move can be the best decision you make:

• More purpose and impact: You can pivot into work that aligns with your values.
• Work-life balance: Many career changers over 50 seek (and find) roles with more flexibility, and some career options offer fewer hours, supporting a better work-life balance.
• Financial security: Many people over 50 are seeking career options that provide enough money and financial security, ensuring a comfortable lifestyle.
• Transferable skills: From managing people to solving problems — your current skills form a strong foundation for new opportunities.
• Career progression: If you’ve reached a plateau in your career progression within your current industry, a change can open up new paths for advancement and growth.
• Opportunities to learn: Courses today are built for mature learners — often flexible, online and bite-sized.

Evaluating your current job and current skills is a crucial first step. This helps you identify what you want from your next move and how your experience can transfer to a new field. The important thing is to take action and explore new career options that align with your needs and goals.

Changing careers later in life offers a range of benefits that go beyond just a new job title. A new career path can lead to greater job satisfaction, improved work-life balance, and even enhanced financial security. For many, a midlife career change is a chance to break free from a current career that no longer inspires them and to pursue an idea or industry that brings renewed excitement and challenge.

Transitioning to a new role also allows you to leverage your transferable skills and experience, giving you the confidence to succeed in a different field. Employers often appreciate the maturity, reliability, and strong work ethic that come with age, making midlife career changers attractive candidates in the job market.

Ultimately, changing careers can reignite your passion for work, help you grow personally and professionally, and set you on a path toward a more rewarding and meaningful career.

Helping others in a meaningful way doesn’t require decades of study, and many community support roles value life experience and compassion. Community services can be a rewarding career field for those seeking a new direction. Many roles involve working directly with children and young people, supporting their development and well-being. These positions can have a positive impact on the lives of individuals and the community.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• Your people skills, empathy, and patience are major assets.
• Mentoring others is a valuable aspect of many community service roles.
• Flexible work settings: part-time, casual, or local roles are common.
• Growing demand in areas like aged care, mental health and disability support.

Get started with: A Certificate III in Community Services or Community Services IV in Community Services.

It’s one of Australia’s fastest-growing industries and one that welcomes career changers, especially mature workers with strong interpersonal and soft skills. Many aged care roles are supported by government initiatives and funding, making it easier to access job opportunities and training programs.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• Employers value mature staff who can relate to older clients.
• You’ll be supported with on-the-job training and practical placements, giving you the chance to train and upskill in the workplace.
• Many courses offer fast, flexible options to get you qualified sooner.
• Aged care roles can offer more responsibilities and opportunities for leadership.
• Flexible schedules help balance family responsibilities.
• Aged care workers are held in high respect for their contribution to society.

Get started with: Certificate III in Individual Support

If you’ve always been the go-to listener or advice-giver, being the kind of person others turn to is a valuable trait in this field. A career in counselling can also positively impact your personal life. In counselling roles, making a difference in someone’s life is what truly matters.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• Your emotional intelligence is a huge advantage.
• Jobs range from support worker to case manager — and can be part-time or remote.
• Many people start in this field as a second or next career move.
• These roles often involve teaching clients coping skills or strategies.
• Consider your financial responsibilities if you’re starting gradually.

Get started with: Diploma of Counselling or Certificate IV in Mental Health.

Want to work in schools without becoming a teacher? Education support roles let you help students thrive. These roles can also be a pathway into teaching or can complement formal teaching positions.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• Your patience and maturity are valued in school settings.
• School hours offer work-life balance.
• Many roles are entry level positions and beginner-friendly.
• Many people in these roles have taught or supported students in various ways, even without being a classroom teacher.

Get started with: Certificate III in School-Based Education Support

Love organisation but not the sight of blood? There’s growing demand for admin roles in clinics and hospitals. Healthcare administration roles exist in a variety of businesses, from small clinics to large hospitals.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• Your attention to detail and reliability shine here.
• Most roles are desk-based and suit part-time or full-time.
• Experience in business operations or technical roles is an asset.
• Understanding company policies and procedures is important in these roles.

Get started with: Certificate III in Health Administration.

Turning a passion into a business or supporting others as a consultant or freelancer? It’s more achievable than ever. Many people over 50 choose to start their own business, leveraging their experience and passion. Running your own business can be fun and fulfilling, especially when it aligns with your interests.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• You bring deep expertise and professional experience.
• You can set your own pace, hours and goals.
• Human resources skills are valuable for managing people.
• Building your own business allows you to see tangible progress as you grow your venture.

Get started with: Certificate III in Business or a course in business and entrepreneurship.

Don’t let tech intimidate you. Support and cybersecurity roles are more about analytical skills and problem-solving than coding. These roles are ideal for those who enjoy learning new things and staying up to date with technology.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• No degree required — short courses are available.
• Remote and part-time roles offer flexibility.
• Your focus and staying power are highly valued.
• Transition from your current industry using existing skills.

Get started with: Certificate IV in Cyber Security or IT Support.

Not every career pivot needs to be bold. Sometimes, a lower-pressure job is the right move.

Why it works for you at 50+:

• Ideal if you’re easing into retirement or want more spare time.
• People-facing or task-based roles suit many career changers.
• These roles offer a chance to test new career ideas.

Get started with: Certificate II or III in Business or Retail Services.

Overcoming self-doubt and fear

Feeling nervous or unsure about changing careers? That’s completely normal, especially if you’re stepping away from a familiar role into something new.

The key is to shift your focus. Think about your transferable skills, past achievements, and the strengths you’ve built in your current career. Your life experience and adaptability are incredibly valuable and they’re exactly what many employers are looking for.

To boost your confidence:

• Consider working with a career coach or mentor.\n
• Create a personalised career transition plan.\n
• Practise your job interview skills to prepare for opportunities.

Support like this can help quiet the fear and keep you moving forward with a more positive mindset.

Building a support system

A career change is a big move, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone.

Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential: friends, family, mentors, or fellow career changers. Their encouragement will help you stay motivated, boost your staying power, and provide clarity when you hit roadblocks.

Try joining:

• Online communities focused on career change\n
• Coaching groups or forums where others share insights and stories

Talking to people on the same path can make your own journey feel more manageable — and much less lonely.

In his previous life, Ted was an AFL footballer for 16 years with the Essendon Bombers and the Sydney Swans, making plenty of memories and life-long friends along the way.

After retiring from football two years ago, Ted moved into investment management. Although he’s always loved football, Ted discovered that he has other passions too, and investing is one of them.

The average career span of a footballer is only around five years. Ted always knew that the statistics suggested that he should prepare for a new job if things didn’t work out. Whilst playing football, he went to university and completed a Bachelor of Commerce and a Masters of Applied Finance. He also did work experience during the last four years of his career.

“This gave me great vindication that investing was the next career path for me. I prepared the best I could, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous about entering a new industry too.”

The journey was a little bumpy. “I failed a few subjects, so it’s not like it was easy or I was perfect. I had to make sacrifices and miss out on exciting events, which wasn’t fun either. But I kept chipping away, and I think that’s what I’m most proud of. I didn’t give up.”

Ted is now the Director of Business Development at Six Park – an organisation that provides investment advice online, otherwise known as ‘robo-advice’. He prides his career and business on transparency in how it invests for its clients.

Starting something new later in life can feel daunting, but it can also be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make. With the right support, a clear direction, and a little self-belief, your next chapter can be filled with purpose, flexibility, and fulfilment. Trust your instincts, lean into your strengths, and take that first step toward the working life you really want.

Because it’s never too late to make a career move to create the life you want.