The Action Plan is the roadmap for how the recommendations in the National Careers System Strategy (NCSS) will be delivered.

The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) leads this work with government and sector partners, supporting a more connected, coordinated and effective careers system.

The NCSS Action Plan (2026/2027)

The 2026/2027 Action Plan has four priority workstreams. Each workstream contains several actions to support the careers system to move towards the desired future state outlined in the NCSS.

The workstreams align closely with the Tertiary Education Strategy (TES) and the Government’s Going for Growth – Developing Talent priorities.

The primary focus of the Action Plan is on:

• tertiary learners – improving access, participation, achievement and transitions
• the careers workforce – enabling better guidance through improved tools, resources and capability.
  The needs of Māori, Pacific and disabled learners and other underrepresented groups are embedded across all workstreams.

Work also continues across the system on secondary transitions; young people not in education, employment or training; and older New Zealanders transitioning in and through work.

The four workstreams and their actions

1. Understanding tertiary-education-to-employment pathways

The difference this will make: Improved understanding of the impact of careers information and guidance in tertiary education, helping to inform policy, investment and resources.

2. Developing and sharing good practice, insights and resources

The difference this will make: Improved access to high-quality, up-to-date careers information and tools, aligned to learner needs and the Tertiary Education Strategy priorities.

3. Building career workforce capability and leadership

The difference this will make: A more capable and confident careers workforce delivering consistent, high-quality support across education, employment and community settings.

4. Understanding what works

The difference this will make: Stronger evaluation and evidence to guide continuous improvement and system leadership.