What is Career Development?

Career development is a lifelong process that supports individuals in exploring, shaping, and managing their work and learning experiences across all stages of life. It’s about setting meaningful goals, building new skills, and adapting to change—whether you’re in paid employment, volunteering, or pursuing further education. This journey helps you discover opportunities that align with your interests, values, and aspirations, while also fostering personal growth, confidence, and resilience.

By actively directing your career path, you not only enhance your employability but also find greater satisfaction and purpose in your work. Career development is an ongoing adventure that empowers you to overcome challenges, embrace new possibilities, and create a fulfilling life.

References:
Australian Centre for Career Education, ‘Definition of career development’, CEAV, https://ceav.vic.edu.au/career-development/definition-of-career-development, Accessed March, 2025.

What is a Registered Professional Career Development Practitioner (RPCDP)?

A Registered Professional Career Development Practitioner (RPCDP) is a qualified professional who supports individuals and groups at all stages of their career journey. RPCDPs help people make informed decisions about education, work, and life transitions through services such as career counselling, coaching, assessments, and strategic planning. They are skilled at identifying clients’ unique needs and empowering them to take ownership of their choices, ensuring support is always tailored and client-focused68.

In Australia, an RPCDP is recognised by the Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA). To achieve this status, practitioners must hold a CICA-endorsed Graduate Certificate in Career Development (or higher), or an equivalent career development qualification, and be a Professional Member of a CICA Member Association. This ensures RPCDPs maintain high standards of education, training, and ongoing professional development, and adhere to a strict code of ethics and competency guidelines27.

By meeting these rigorous requirements, RPCDPs demonstrate their commitment to delivering quality, ethical, and effective career development services, enhancing both individual outcomes and the professionalism of the sector as a whole.

References:
Career Industry Council of Australia, ‘Professional Standards’, CICA, https://cica.org.au/professional-standards/, Accessed March, 2025.
Career Industry Council of Australia, ‘Career Practitioners’, https://cica.org.au/practitioners/, Accessed June, 2025.
Centre for Career Education, ‘Career Development Practitioners’, https://ceav.vic.edu.au/career-development/career-development-practitioners/, Accessed June, 2025.

About Me

RPCDP at Sea Change Careers

I am the founder and principal consultant of Sea Change Careers, a practice born from my experience navigating workforce re-entry as a homeschooling mother and overcoming barriers such as gender bias. As a Registered Professional Career Development Practitioner, I specialise in tailored career counselling, workforce coaching, and small business support for individuals and organisations seeking growth and resilience in dynamic environments. My background spans education, business operations, and career development practice, providing multidisciplinary insights into workforce challenges and sustainable people solutions. Using an evidence-based approach that combines Systems Theory and Life Design principles, addressing the interplay of organisational, personal, and industry factors, to help clients build adaptable career pathways and leverage change as a source of opportunity.

With expertise in supporting alternative career pathways, including remote work, regional employment, and diverse needs such as skilled migrant or Christian clients, I promote entrepreneurial thinking and resilience through skill-building and inclusive, client-centred practice. Every engagement is confidential and collaborative, utilising validated assessment tools where appropriate and consulting with subject matter experts to ensure best practices. I also work with small businesses to drive growth and workforce adaptability, bringing the same personalised, strengths-based methods to support teams in evolving environments. I encourage people to explore their potential, overcome obstacles, and thrive in their chosen paths.

- Lizanne

Founder, Sea Change Careers

M.Ed., GCE (Career Development and Counselling)

Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA) Registered Professional Career Development Practitioner (RPCDP)