In August 2020 as a response to COVID-19 and the expected rise in unemployment, the New Zealand Cabinet approved a proposal for a new limited-time service to support New Zealanders back to work. The service was implemented by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) in partnership with the Career Development Association of New Zealand (CDANZ) and is known as the Direct Career Service (DCS).

This report draws on evidence from the first eight months of the DCS, from October 2020 to June 2021, focusing on its reach and early outcomes for New Zealanders. It shows the value and depth of support that the CDANZ career development professionals (CDPs) have given to New Zealanders during times of uncertainty and stress, enabling many people to feel supported, confident and equipped to take the next step in their work and learning journey.

The report draws on qualitative and survey data from 240 clients of the DCS and 55 CDPs, coupled with anonymised booking data from over 1,000 clients. Kanohi ki te kanohi (face-to-face) semi-structured interviews with over 20 clients, CDPs and other staff contributed to the richness of the findings.