Overview
Australia, a vast and diverse continent situated in the Southern Hemisphere, is characterised by its sweeping landscapes ranging from the iconic Sydney Opera House along the bustling harbour to the remote expanses of the Outback and the stunning coral formations of the Great Barrier Reef. As a sovereign nation, Australia is recognised for its robust economy based on mining, agriculture, and tourism. Its rich history sees indigenous Aboriginal culture intertwined with modern Australian ethos, reflected in art, music, and sports. Covering a massive geographical area, Australia offers a blend of urban sophistication and rugged natural beauty, making it a unique and captivating destination for career seekers.
Reasons to work in Australia
Australia is one of the top expat destinations in the world. The country's strong economy, welcoming environment for skilled migrants and diverse nature and culture make it attractive for talent. Below are a few reasons why foreigners enjoy working in Australia.
-
Australia offers a high standard of living with a diverse range of economic and social opportunities. It has a well-developed economy with a strong focus on innovation and research, which has created job opportunities in a variety of sectors.
-
It is known for its welcoming and multicultural society. The country has a history of immigration and has developed a reputation for being inclusive and tolerant. This has created a vibrant and diverse community which is attractive to immigrants from all over the world.
-
Australia has a relatively straightforward immigration system with various visa options for skilled workers, students, entrepreneurs, and family members. The government has implemented multiple programs and initiatives to attract and retain skilled workers, particularly in areas such as healthcare, technology, and engineering.
-
It also has a strong education system with a range of high-quality universities and vocational education providers. This has made it an attractive destination for international students, who may choose to stay in the country after completing their studies.
-
The country has a range of natural and cultural attractions that make it an appealing destination for immigrants. From stunning natural landscapes to a rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in Australia.
If you are an ambitious individual who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle while being paid a decent salary, Australia can be a great choice.
Getting a Job in Australia as a Foreigner
Getting a job in Australia as a foreigner involves a series of steps, from understanding the job market to securing a work visa. If you do not have an unrestricted right to work in Australia and apply for jobs that do not offer visa sponsorship, your time and energy may be wasted. To get a job in Australia with a visa, you can follow Opentoworld's simple steps:
Step 1: Find suitable positions on Opentoworld
Vacancies listed on Opentoworld support visa sponsorship for foreigners who do not have an existing right to work in Australia. You can search for jobs based on keywords, location, industry and job level.
Step 2: Submit job applications
Once you have identified the right opportunity, you can submit your applications directly to the employer by clicking "Apply Now". When submitting applications, you may need to submit a CV (resume) and sometimes a cover letter. It is important to submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter that are tailored to the job.
Step 3: Complete the application process
If your skills and experience match the employer's requirements, the employer may invite you to complete assessments and interviews. If you apply for an internship, graduate job or a graduate scheme, you may also need to participate in assessment centres, which may be referred to as assessment days in Australia.
Step 4: Receive a job offer
In order to secure a job, you may need to apply for multiple positions. If you are successful in your application, you will be offered a job in Australia. Without securing a job offer, you may not be able to obtain a work visa.
Step 5: Apply for a visa and relocate
Once you have signed the contract, employers will often guide you through the visa application process. In most cases, your employer will need to sponsor you. Employers may offer sponsorship or provide relevant documents via the Australian Government's visa programmes, such as:
-
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
-
Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
-
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)
Once you have received your visa, you can relocate to Australia or continue your stay if you are already in the country.
There are some visa options where you do not need sponsorship from employers, i.e. Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189). Those visas allow you to stay in Australia for a certain period and look for jobs if your visa application is approved. However, these visa schemes have special requirements that may not be suitable for the majority of job seekers.
Australian Employment Market in 2023
The Australian employment market in 2023 is characterised by strong demand for workers and low unemployment rates. In February 2023, the unemployment rate was 3.5%, which was below the long-term average of 5.5%. The participation rate, which measures the percentage of the population that is either employed or unemployed, was 66.6%. Employment increased by 74,900 to 13,826,200 in February 2023. Full-time employment increased by 74,900 to 9,669,300 people, while part-time employment decreased by 10,300 to 4,156,900 people.
The strong demand for workers is being driven by a number of factors, including the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the ageing population, and the increasing demand for skilled workers. The low unemployment rates are making it difficult for businesses to find workers, and some businesses are offering higher wages and other benefits to attract workers.
The strong employment market is expected to continue in 2023, with unemployment rates remaining low and wages growing at a moderate pace. Australia boasts a diverse and robust economy that attracts global talent across various industries.
Top Industries that Attract Global Talent
Australia's progressive immigration policies, quality of life, and diverse culture make it an appealing destination for talents from various fields worldwide. Below are some of the top industries where foreigners might find promising opportunities:
-
Mining and Resources: Australia is rich in minerals and natural resources. The mining industry is a significant contributor to its GDP, attracting talent in fields such as geology, metallurgy, and engineering.
-
Healthcare & Pharmaceutical: With a world-class healthcare system, Australia continually seeks professionals like doctors, nurses, and medical researchers. The country's medical research institutions are known for their groundbreaking work and regularly collaborate internationally.
-
Information Technology: As the tech industry globally continues to grow, Australia is no exception. IT professionals, software developers, and digital experts find ample opportunities here.
-
Financial Services: Sydney is often regarded as the financial hub of the Asia-Pacific region. The banking and financial sector in Australia seeks expertise in areas like fintech, investment banking, and financial analysis.
-
Agriculture: Given Australia's vast landscapes and varied climates, agriculture remains a key industry. This includes both traditional farming and innovative agribusiness solutions.
-
Tourism and Hospitality: With its unique wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities, Australia is a major tourist destination. This industry demands a range of professionals, from hotel managers to travel consultants.
-
Education and Training: Australia's universities are among the top in the world, attracting international students and academic professionals alike.
-
Energy & Infrastructure: As the world moves towards more sustainable energy solutions, Australia is investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This sector is increasingly drawing international experts in sustainable technologies. With urban areas expanding and infrastructure projects on the rise, professionals in construction, urban planning, and architecture also have numerous opportunities.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs in top industries in Australia:
Requirements for an Australian Work Visa?
Most people moving to Australia for employment apply for a work visa under the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) or Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494). If one seeks to permanently reside and work in Australia, they may opt for the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). For those who are highly skilled and do not have an employer sponsoring them, the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) can be an option. These visas have a specific validity period, but some can lead to permanent residency or can be extended. To be eligible, candidates must usually have a confirmed job offer with an employer who is sponsoring them.
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme visa is ideal for applicants who have relevant work experience in occupations listed on the skilled occupation list. This is the most popular and fastest visa route if you want to obtain permanent residency in Australia. This visa involves a two-step process: firstly, a nomination by an Australian employer and then an application under the nominated stream.
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- Security and Record: Applicants should have no security objections and no known record of serious crime.
- Educational Background: Typically, applicants should hold relevant qualifications for the nominated position. Years of work experience in the field may also be considered.
- Confirmed Employment Offer: Applicants should have a confirmed job offer that matches their qualifications or work experience and be nominated by their employers. Opentoworld can be a platform for job hunting.
- Age Limit: In most cases, applicants must be under 45 years of age.
- Skills Assessment: Depending on the stream under which one is applying, a positive skills assessment may be required.
- Meeting the Language Requirement: To be sponsored under subclass 186, you must speak competent English.
Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) - (for overseas skilled workers)
The Temporary Skill Shortage visa is designed to address short-term skill shortages in Australia. It allows approved businesses to employ approved skilled workers for positions they can't find skilled Australian workers for.
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- Security and Record: Applicants should have no security objections and no known record of serious crime.
- Educational Background: Generally, applicants should hold a relevant degree or higher qualifications. In some cases, years of work experience can also be considered.
- Confirmed Employment Offer: Applicants should have a confirmed job offer that matches their qualifications or work experience. You can apply for suitable jobs on Opentoworld.
- Remuneration Package: The salary and employment conditions should be equivalent to Australian workers in similar positions.
- Skills Assessment: Many occupations under this visa require a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)
This visa is for skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia. The goal of the subclass 494 visa is to assist regional employers in addressing identified labour market shortages within their region.
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- Security and Record: Applicants should have no security objections and no known record of serious crime.
- Educational Background: Applicants should typically hold qualifications relevant to the nominated position.
- Confirmed Employment Offer: Applicants should have a confirmed job offer from an approved employer in a designated regional area of Australia. Opportunities can be explored on platforms like Opentoworld.
- Age Limit: Applicants should generally be under 45 years of age at the time of application, though there are some exceptions.
- Skills Assessment: Many occupations under this visa require a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Minimum Work Experience: Typically, three years of relevant full-time work experience is required.
It's essential to be aware that Australian immigration and visa rules can be complex and are subject to change. Therefore, always consult the official Department of Home Affairs website or work with a registered migration agent to get up-to-date information and advice tailored to individual circumstances. Information on Opentoworld is regularly reviewed and updated. You can visit Opentowold for recent information on employment and visas.
Relevant Links
Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Australia
Other Common Visa Options to Work in Australia
How to Write an Australian Standard CV
