I applied for and cold canvassed 20-30 businesses for an Avionics appt in 2010, had very little feedback.
Did the AA course in 2011, again lots of cold canvassing and job applications. Got offered 3 jobs and took one not ideal but hopefully a good base for a new career.
I dont think AA is the answer, but in my case it helped me get over the line with a few employers who may have thought I was a bit old. (30's)
I was married with a toddler. I looked into centrelink payments and savings to support my family.
Do your research, mature age top ups to wages, government incentives, lots of little help out there. And a little help might make all the difference.
I looked into the jobs Torres was advertising but as it was accommodation for a family was a bit much where the job was based.
Just started my 3rd year. very happy with the career change. Who knows where I'll be in 1 year, let alone 5 years.
If you want it bad enough, you will make it happen.
Good luck to all.