Welcome to 2026. 

For teachers, January means different things depending on where you are: Some of you are already back, preparing for Term 1. Others are enjoying the final weeks of summer break. And some are actively exploring what this year could hold professionally. 

At HARKE Recruitment, we've spent December reflecting on 2025 and planning how we can better support teachers in 2026. We've seen what worked, where we can improve, and what opportunities are emerging across QLD, NSW, VIC, and the NT. 

Here's what you can expect from HARKE in 2026—and what opportunities are coming for teachers this year. 

What Worked in 2025 (And What We're Continuing) 

1. State-Specialised Consultants 

In 2025, we restructured our team so every consultant specialises in specific states: 

• QLD: Terry and Jasmine 
• NSW: Lauren and Demi 
• VIC: Paige, Jo, and Amy 
• NT: Paige and Jasmine 

Why this matters for you: 

When you work with HARKE, you're not talking to a generic recruiter. You're connected with someone who knows your target state intimately—which schools are hiring, what they're looking for, and how to position you effectively. 

This isn't changing in 2026. It's working, and we're keeping it. 

2. Comprehensive Candidate Support 

In 2025, we didn't just send your CV to schools and hope for the best. We: 

• Helped refine CVs and cover letters 
• Provided interview preparation and feedback 
• Guided teachers through registration processes 
• Checked in after placements to ensure success 
• Stayed available when challenges arose 

In 2026, we're doubling down on this approach. 

Your success isn't measured by whether we place you—it's measured by whether you thrive in your new role. We're committed to supporting you beyond just the placement. 

3. Focus on Quality Matches (Not Volume) 

We could flood you with every available role and hope something sticks. But that's not helpful. 

In 2025, we focused on quality matches: 

• Understanding what you actually want (not just what you're qualified for) 
• Introducing you to schools where you'll thrive 
• Being honest when a role isn't the right fit 

This approach continues in 2026. 

We'd rather place 10 teachers in roles where they genuinely flourish than 50 teachers in roles they'll leave within a year. 

What's New in 2026 

1. Expanded NZ Teacher Support 

In 2025, we supported dozens of New Zealand teachers transitioning to Australian schools. The feedback was clear: NZ teachers need specialised guidance through registration, curriculum differences, and cultural transitions. 

In 2026, we're launching: 

• Dedicated NZ teacher onboarding resources 
• State-specific registration guides for NZ teachers 
• Curriculum comparison resources 
• Connection with other NZ teachers who've successfully made the move 

If you're a Kiwi teacher considering Australia, we're making the transition smoother. 

What Opportunities Are Coming in 2026? 

Based on what we're seeing from schools and state education departments, here's what to expect: 

High-Demand Areas: 

STEM Teachers (Particularly Maths, Science, Technology) 

• Secondary schools across all states 
• Independent and Catholic sectors especially seeking specialists 
• Regional and remote schools offering strong incentives 

Primary Teachers in Regional/Remote Areas 

• QLD regional areas (North, Central) 
• NT remote communities 
• NSW regional areas 
• VIC regional centres 

Special Education and Inclusive Learning Specialists 

• Growing across all states 
• Both specialist schools and mainstream inclusion roles 

Senior Secondary Specialists 

• VCE, ATAR, SACE, QCE specialists 
• Particular demand for Humanities, Arts, Languages 

Emerging Trends: 

Wellbeing and Mental Health Roles 

• Schools prioritising student wellbeing support 
• Pastoral care coordinator positions 

Digital Learning Specialists 

• Technology integration roles 
• Online/hybrid learning coordination 

Sustainability and Environmental Education 

• Schools building sustainability programs 
• Cross-curriculum environmental focus 

How to Work with HARKE in 2026 

If You're Actively Job Searching: 

1. Register Your Interest: 
www.harke.com.au/submit-resume 

Provide: 

• Your current CV 
• What you're looking for (state, year level, subject, timing) 
• Your registration status 
• Your timeline 

2. Connect with Your State Consultant: 

We'll match you with the consultant covering your target state. They'll: 

• Review your CV and provide feedback 
• Understand your preferences and non-negotiables 
• Identify suitable opportunities 
• Introduce you to relevant schools 

3. Stay Engaged: 

Respond to our communications, update us on your status, and let us know if your preferences change. 

The more we understand you, the better we can match you. 

If You're Just Exploring: 

Not ready to apply but curious about what's out there? 

• Browse current opportunities: www.harke.com.au/jobseekers 
• Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for insights 
• Read our blog for industry updates and advice 
• Register your interest for future opportunities 

There's no pressure. We're here when you're ready. 

What Makes HARKE Different? 

We know there are many recruitment agencies. Here's why teachers choose to work with us: 

1. Education-Only Focus 

We're not a generalist recruitment agency that happens to do some education placements. We're 100% focused on education. 

Every consultant specialises in schools. We understand the sector, the challenges, and what makes a good fit. 

2. Genuine Partnership Approach 

You're not a CV to us. You're a teacher with aspirations, concerns, and specific needs. 

We take time to understand what you actually want and work with you to find it—not just push you toward whatever's available. 

3. School Relationships Built on Trust 

We don't just post roles and hope. We have established relationships with schools across QLD, NSW, VIC, and the NT. 

Schools trust our recommendations. That means your application gets genuine consideration, not lost in a pile. 

4. Support Beyond Placement 

We don't disappear once you sign a contract. We check in, troubleshoot challenges, and stay available if you need support. 

Your long-term success matters to us. 

2026: A Year of Opportunity 

Whether you're: 

• A graduate teacher starting your first role 
• An experienced teacher seeking a new challenge 
• A NZ teacher considering the move to Australia 
• Someone exploring regional or remote opportunities 
• A specialist looking for the right fit 

2026 is full of possibilities. 

Schools are hiring. Opportunities exist across metro, regional, and remote areas. And we're here to support you through every step. 

Welcome to 2026. Let's make it a great year. 

Get Started: 

Register for 2026 opportunities: 
www.harke.com.au/submit-resume 

Browse current roles: 
www.harke.com.au/jobseekers 

Connect with our team: 
www.harke.com.au 

Follow us on socials for updates!