Are you looking for Work in Australia? I think you have made the right thoughts, as a lot of people have been looking for work in this country. There are many reasons why — Australia’s beautiful beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and thriving job market. All of these make it a top choice for many looking to work abroad.
Nonetheless, before you start packing your bags, there’s some important stuff you need to know. That’s why in this article, I’ll look into the nitty-gritty of working in the Land of Oz.
Why Work in Australia?
First of all, it will be appropriate to ask the following question: Why Australia? Well, aside from the great weather and scenery, Australia does have a lot to offer when it comes to finding work. It is evident the economy is healthy, youth unemployment is low and there are gaps in skills demand in most sectors. This translates to good prospects of jobs for well qualified workers from other parts of the world.
Besides that, the work culture is quite informal (but not casual) and there is a strong push towards wellness at work. And did you know that there are beautiful beaches as well? I’m not kidding, a lunch break will not be the same again if you have acoustically assisted with an ocean session.
Skills in Demand
Well, now, Australia is not like any country where somebody can just show up and start any job. They’re all searching for people with Skills the country needs. Australia has what they call the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), which is a list of occupations that they need people in.
This list is by no means exhaustive and changes rather frequently but most often it encompasses the following:
- Healthcare givers (doctors, nurses, specialists)
- Engineers (civil, mechanical, electrical)
- Professionals in information technology (software development, cyber security).
- Trades (electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
- Education sector (particularly teachers within the rural context)
If your job is on the list, you stand a much better chance of receiving a work visa. But if it is not so, there are other ways in as well, do not worry about that.
Types of Visa in Australia
Okay, back to the fairly unexciting (but very important) part – visas. They are a few different types you might go for:
- Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462): This type of visa is suitable for those boys and girls who want to work and travel up to one year at the age of from 18 till 30. That is, some lucky ducks from certain countries can even extend it for a second or third year.
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482): The Temporary Skills Shortage Visa is for skilled workers with an Australian employer to sponsor him/her. They say it’s like having a golden ticket if you have the right skills and an employer is looking for someone like you.
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): This one goes to the brains ladies and gentlemen, the honor students, the overachievers out there. If one is skilled in the Australian workforce and scores enough points, he or she can obtain this permanent residency visa.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): Another way to get a permanent residency but again it will require an employer in Australia to sponsor him/her.
- Student Visa (subclass 500): Would you like to go and study in Australia? This visa allows the international students to be employed when they are in their studies but not full time.
There are others, but those mentioned above are the most common for anyone seeking employment in the market.
Working Requirements in Australia
Now, don’t think that it is very simple as ABC. To that end, there are several things that must be done and this means going through a number of hoops.
- Skills Assessment: In most cases, you will be required to show that you have the skills required for the profession you intend to pursue. This mostly entails your documents and experience being evaluated by the concerned Aussie authority.
- English Language Proficiency: If you aren’t a native English speaker, then chances are that you will have to provide an IELTS or PTE to prove your proficiency in the language.
- Health and Character Checks: Australia has not been too keen in allowing people in especially foreigners. It will be mandatory for you to present a health certificate and you will also need to clear a character certificate test, no criminal history.
- Age Limits: Some of the visa categories come with age limitations, so find out if you are in the right age class.
- Occupation Lists: Skilled migrants must have a job that is on the Australian’s occupation lists for a particular visa. This changes more often than the weather in Melbourne so one has to be on the lookout.
The Application Process
Now, I want to be honest and I won’t tell you that getting an Australian work visa is not very easy. Sometimes it can be a little task but do not let this discourage you. I am going to provide a general overview of what is involved in the application process for one of these jobs:
- Check Your Eligibility: The first thing that you have to do is to proceed to the Department of Home Affairs and find out which visa is right for you.
- Gather Your Documents: Documents to bring: original birth certificate, valid passport, diploma and any documents which may support your employment experience.
- Skills Assessment: If necessary, you should have your skills evaluated by the appropriate authority. This is very important for working in Australia.
- English Test: Take your English test, if necessary, and get ready to take a book and sit the test.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Some visas require you to express your interest through an EOI using the SkillSelect.
- Lodge Your Application: Once you receive an invitation, you need to fill the visa application online.
- Wait patiently: The visa procedures take a little time, so buckle up for the long haul.
- Visa Grant: If all goes well, you will receive that surprise email telling you that your visa has been granted!
Conclusion
Well, that’s the size of this article! Here you can clearly see what work in Australia is an amazing experience. Well, of course, it may seem like a complex process, but do not get discouraged. All that is needed is the right preparation and a positive attitude directing you toward that dream of living in Australia. So, why not try it out? Who knows, your dream job in Australia may not be far away. Cheers, and good luck!