Before embarking on your job search in Australia, it’s essential to secure an appropriate visa that allows you to work legally. Not all visas grant work authorization, and some may come with specific conditions.
Each year, we receive inquiries from international candidates and students who intend to move to Australia for employment opportunities, and it’s not hard to see why. Australia offers a fantastic living and working environment.
So, what should you keep in mind when seeking employment in Australia? Here are some tips to consider:
- Time Your Arrival: For a wealth of job opportunities, plan your visit during the Australian summer, which spans from December to February. August and September are particularly promising months, especially in industries connected to tourism. Competition for jobs can be fierce, so coming during this period can ease the process. However, opportunities are available year-round, so don’t be discouraged if you visit at a different time.
- Online and In-Person Job Search: Most employers in Australia post job openings online. Explore company websites and job listing platforms such as seek.com.au, au.indeed.com, and others. For service-oriented jobs like those in restaurants and retail, consider visiting potential employers in person to showcase your interpersonal skills. If you require assistance, you can explore registration with temporary agencies or working holiday travel programs. While travel programs may come with extra costs, they can help you with housing, tax registration, and other essential arrangements upon your arrival. Always have a well-prepared CV ready to submit with multiple copies for in-person applications.
- Consider Temporary Jobs: Industries with high turnover rates are more accessible to travelers. Common options include agricultural work, fruit picking, fishing, mining, construction, and positions in retail, bars, restaurants, and hotels. Keep in mind that Australian visa rules restrict you to working for a single employer for six months. This may make some employers hesitant to hire individuals on working holidays. If you aim to apply for a second-year work visa, focus on roles in agriculture, construction, fishing, or mining. You’ll be required to complete 88 days of such work and provide payslips or other evidence when reapplying for the visa.
- Leverage Your Skills: While many working holiday visa holders end up in typical roles, don’t be afraid to explore unconventional opportunities that align with your skills. Whether you have experience in driving, childcare, teaching, or other areas, your expertise can improve your chances of finding work in Australia. For instance, tech-savvy individuals can seek IT roles, and those with sales experience can look for sales or fundraising positions. If you plan to stay long-term, you’ll have a better shot at securing traditional office jobs.
- Job Duration and Exploration: Under working holiday visa regulations, you are allowed to work for an employer for a maximum of six months. This means you might need to change jobs to continue your stay in the country. While you don’t necessarily have to stick with one job for the full six months, doing so can ensure a steady income. Remember, your trip is also about experiencing the country, so move on to new places when you’re ready. Some backpackers work for a few days and then move to the next location. Another option is to divide your trip between the west and east coasts to maximize your experiences.
Plan your work schedule to balance your employment goals with the opportunity to savor all that Australia has to offer. For more information on applying for an Australia Visitor Visa, start your research now.