The Pathways Policy Section provides policy advice and manages a number of initiatives that are related to careers and transitions for young people.
The Section's work involves:
- managing Connections (formerly known as Partnership Outreach Education Model (POEM)), which provides young people who are disconnected from mainstream schooling with another chance at learning through flexible and accredited education and training options delivered in supported community settings.
- secretariat support for the National Youth Careers and Transitions Advisory Group (NYCTAG). The NYCTAG assists the Minister in championing the national agenda for young Australians, with a particular focus on helping them make a successful transition through school, and from school to further education, training and employment.
- managing DEST sponsorship of the Step to the Future Forums (STTF) which are a series of forums organised by a group of senior secondary students from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds and locations. The forums aim to provide 12-18 year old young Australians with positive role models and motivation, as well as sharing the life experiences of a diverse group of individuals representing business, politics, entertainment, sport and the general community.