Abstract Previous research has revealed inconsistencies in the interaction of perceived career barriers, career development variables, and demographic variables such as gender and cultural identity. This study sought to investigate such relationships by surveying 1063 secondary students from Australia and South Africa in order to explore their work related perceived barriers, and the possible existence of a relationship between career maturity, career decision-making, and career decision-making self-efficacy. Results showed no support for the influence of gender, culture, socioeconomic status, grade, or work experience on levels of perceived career barriers. However, a relationship between perception of career barriers and the career development variables was evident, with generally less career maturity and higher career indecision being reported the greater the perception of barriers. Differences existed in terms of type of perceived career barrier for culture and grade, and these are explored and discussed.