A migrant from Iran, who arrived in Australia with multiple university qualifications to her name but struggled to secure work, has launched a new career in pathology collection after studying at TAFE NSW.

Pathology collection is an industry in demand, with more than 7,000 jobs forecast to be created by 2026.

TAFE NSW offers a range of courses to deliver a pipeline of workers to meet the growing demand in the pathology industry.

Zahra Khanlari emigrated to Australia in 2022 holding a master’s degree and a PhD in pathology and virology from Iranian universities.

“When I arrived in Australia, I needed further qualifications to secure work here, which is why I decided to study at TAFE NSW,” Ms Khanlari said.

“Studying through TAFE NSW has given me the qualification and practical skills I needed to get the job I wanted here in Australia.”

Ms Khanlari is advocating for other migrants to launch their next career chapter by studying at TAFE NSW.

“As a student from overseas, TAFE NSW helped familiarise me with Australian educational standards and it was valuable in helping me refresh the skills I had learnt at university in Iran. This has no doubt prepared me for the workforce here,” she said.

“I encourage other migrants to study through TAFE NSW, because it can play a key role in helping develop your skills and knowledge to start this new chapter in life and achieve success.”

Head Teacher of Pathology at TAFE NSW Ultimo, Athanasia Siafakas, said TAFE NSW’s Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology) provided students with valuable skills.

"The course caters for local and overseas students and prepares them with hands-on practical skills to set them up for success,” Ms Siafakas said.

“TAFE NSW has many students with qualifications from overseas who apply to study our Diploma because they often find it difficult get a job without local qualifications from here in Australia.”

“To see Zahra succeed in getting a job is recognition of her ability and highlights how TAFE NSW provides students with the skills they need to get the job they want.”

For Ms Khanlari, she is excited to start her new professional chapter.

“I look forward to using my skills and experience to positively contribute to the Australian pathology industry,” she said.

“I started my working life in Australia with beginning steps, and I am happy and hopeful to reach top positions in the future.”

Media contact: Rob Virtue, Communications Specialist, rob.virtue@tafensw.edu.au