How Can Foreigners Find a Job in Australia?

It always seems like an uneasy task when it comes to getting a job in a new country. Nevertheless, with a diverse economy and many opportunities, it is quite easy for foreigners to find a job in Australia. What it requires is understanding how to tap into right niche from the vast employment opportunities.

From visa requirements to tailoring your resume for local employers, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re a skilled professional, a recent graduate, or simply looking for a fresh start, this guide will give you essential tips and strategies to successfully land a job Down Under. Let’s dive into the steps you need to find a job in Australia.

Can Africans work in Australia? Of course, it’s just not always quick and easy to get a job. But it’s not impossible. Find out below.

How to Find a Job in Australia – Quick Steps

The Australian job market is competitive, and not all jobs and skills are equally in demand, especially for foreigners. The sectors with the highest demand include hospitality, construction, and education. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t find opportunities in other areas.

Here are some tips to make your job search in Australia easier:

1. Stick to Your Strengths: It’s best to look for jobs in fields where you already have experience. Changing careers can make it harder to find work.
2. Target In-Demand Jobs: Check the Skilled Occupation list, which highlights jobs in high-demand sectors like healthcare, education, and construction.
3. Secure Your Visa Early: Many recruiters prefer candidates who already have a visa. We’ll cover the different visa types in more detail later.
4. Choose Wisely: Don’t accept a job just to have one. Since your visa is linked to your job, it can be difficult to leave if you’re unhappy. Research your options before committing.
5. Use Job Portals: Make the most of online job portals. We’ll provide links to Australian job search engines in a separate section.
6. Improve Your Language Skills: Good English is essential for most jobs, and you may need to provide proof of your language proficiency.

By following these tips, you can enhance your chances of finding a job in Australia.

How to apply for a job in Australia?

Before applying for a job in Australia as an expat, there are several important steps to take:

1. Visa: First and foremost, you need to choose the right work visa. There are various types available, and you can’t start applying for jobs without one.
2. Resume and Cover Letter: Prepare a tailored resume and cover letter. Avoid using the same ones you submitted in your home country.
3. Tax File Number (TFN) and Australian Business Number (ABN): Before you begin working, you’ll need a Tax File Number, which is similar to a social security number. If you plan to be self-employed, you’ll also need an Australian Business Number. Both can be applied for online.
4. Australian Bank Account: Setting up a bank account is essential before you start working. You can even set it up online before arriving in Australia.
5. Job Search Engines: Once you’ve completed the above steps, explore online job search engines tailored to the Australian market. More information is available in the “Australian Job Search Engines” section below.
6. Apply in Person: For jobs that don’t require specific skills, consider dropping in and applying in person. It can be a great way to increase your chances of success.

By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the job market in Australia.

Work Visa in Australia

Australia offers over 20 different types of work-related visas, which can make it challenging to determine the best fit for your situation. However, with such a variety, you’re likely to find a visa that suits your needs perfectly. Here are a few common types of work visas:

1. Student Visa

This visa allows you to work up to 40 hours per fortnight (20 hours per week) while enrolled in a course of study in Australia.

Benefits:

• Easiest visa to obtain.
• Suitable for students over 6 years old.
• You can bring a family member.

Requirements:

• Provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and meet other criteria.

2. Graduate Visa

Designed for international students who have recently graduated with skills relevant to Australia’s job market, this visa lets you live, study, and work temporarily in Australia.

Benefits:

• Allows full-time work for at least 18 months.
• Family can accompany you.

Requirements:

• Be under 50 years of age.
• Must have held a student visa within the last 6 months.

3. Skilled Visa

This visa is for skilled workers whose professions are in high demand in Australia. There are various types of skilled visas available.

Benefits:

• Can lead to permanent residency.
• Higher salary potential.

Requirements:

• Generally under 45 years of age.
• Must have the necessary skills for the job.
• Meet the relevant English language requirements.

4. Work & Holiday Visa

This visa allows individuals aged 18 to 30 (inclusive) to enjoy an extended holiday in Australia while working to fund their travels. (Note: Subclass 417 is not available for Americans.)

Benefits:

• Easy online application.
• Stay in Australia for up to 12 months.
• Freedom to leave and re-enter Australia multiple times within that year.

Requirements:

• Must be 18 to 30 years old (inclusive).
• Hold a passport from an eligible country.
• Cannot bring dependent children.

By understanding these visa options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your circumstances and goals in Australia.

Resume and Cover Letter Tips

Resume:

Tailoring your resume to meet the specific needs of the company is essential. Keep in mind that Australian hiring managers may not be familiar with your previous roles or the companies you’ve worked for back home. For instance, a well-known American company might not have the same recognition in Australia, so it’s helpful to provide a brief explanation of your previous employers.

Here are some key tips for crafting your Australian resume:

1. Keep It Simple: Use a clean, straightforward design without fancy fonts or colors.
2. Use Australian English: Be sure to adapt your spelling and terminology to Australian English, as it differs from American English.
3. Limit Personal Information: Include only your name and contact details. Do not include age, marital status, race, religion, or photos.
4. Format: Write your resume in reverse chronological order, using bullet points. Aim for about two pages in length.
5. Include a Mission Statement: Start with a brief career objective or mission statement—just two or three sentences to summarize your goals.
6. Highlight Achievements: Focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing your job duties. Showcase your special skills and notable achievements to stand out.

By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling resume that aligns with Australian standards and increases your chances of landing an interview.

Cover Letter:

When writing your cover letter, keep it concise and focused. Avoid rambling about your aspirations for working in a foreign country, as this can come across as overly eager. Instead, concentrate on how you can bring value to the company, despite being from outside Australia. Clearly articulate your skills and experiences that align with the job requirements.

If you need inspiration, consider reviewing cover letter samples to help guide your writing.

Australian Job Search Engines

To aid in your job search, we’ve compiled a list of the best Australian job search engines (or job boards). If you’re wondering how to find a job in Australia as a foreigner, these resources are invaluable:

1. Seek: Australia’s largest employment marketplace. Create a profile and explore its extensive job database.
2. Australian Government Job Search: A leading resource for job seekers, offering a wide range of listings.
3. Adzuna: Aggregates jobs from various sources, providing features like local salary insights and hiring trends.
4. CareerOne: Easily upload your CV to create a profile and find jobs tailored to your skills and experience.
5. Indeed: The Australian version of this popular job portal lets you upload your resume and search by city and job title.

Utilizing these platforms will significantly enhance your job search efforts in Australia.

Volunteering Jobs in Australia for Foreigners

Volunteering can be a fantastic way to enhance your career prospects. By taking on volunteer roles, you’ll develop both soft and hard skills that can significantly boost your employability and help you stand out to potential employers. With a wealth of volunteer opportunities available in Australia, you’re likely to find a role that suits your interests and circumstances.

As Rebecca Miller, head of SEEK Volunteer, puts it, “Our experience is that volunteering really is a career selling point.”

Here are some useful platforms to find volunteering opportunities in Australia:

• SeekVolunteer: A dedicated site for volunteer roles across various sectors.
• Volunteering SA&NT: Focused on South Australia and the Northern Territory, this site lists numerous volunteer positions.
• GoVolunteer: A national platform that connects volunteers with organizations in need of support.

Exploring these resources can help you find meaningful volunteer work that enriches your experience and that is an advantage if must find a job in Australia.

Popular Cities to Work in Australia

If you’ve decided to make the move to Australia, your next step is choosing the right city. Australia is a vast and diverse country, offering a range of job opportunities. Here are four of the most popular cities for work:

• Sydney: As Australia’s largest and most populous city, Sydney is a major economic hub. It’s home to numerous multinational companies, making it an inviting place for foreigners seeking employment.

• Brisbane: The capital of Queensland, Brisbane’s job market is growing rapidly—more than twice the rate of its population growth. It now represents 47 percent of total job growth in Queensland, making it an exciting place to work.

• Melbourne: Known for housing the headquarters of many of Australia’s largest corporations, including five of the top ten, Melbourne is a key financial center with a robust job market.

• Perth: Although it’s the only major city on the West Coast, Perth’s economic base and population size have created numerous development opportunities. It’s becoming a hub for technology startups, offering a wealth of skilled jobs.

Each of these cities provides unique opportunities and experiences, so consider what aligns best with your career goals and lifestyle when making your decision.

American Companies Hiring in Australia

Yes, Americans can definitely work in Australia! There’s a wide range of job opportunities available across various sectors, including Business & Finance, Hospitality, Information Technology, and Customer Service. Here are some American companies that are hiring in Australia:

• American Express: This multinational financial services corporation offers roles such as Financial Analyst, Customer Care Professional, and Sales Specialist.

• First Mortgage Services (FMS): Part of the First American Financial Corporation, FMS operates offices across Australia and New Zealand, providing various financial services.

• Bank of America: With a comprehensive suite of financial products and services, Bank of America hires for positions in financial and statistical analysis.

• TGI Fridays: This popular restaurant chain has 14 locations across Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales, offering jobs in the hospitality sector.

• Starbucks: If you’re a coffee lover, consider working at one of the many Starbucks locations throughout Australia.

These companies not only offer employment opportunities but also provide a chance to experience Australian culture while working for well-known international brands.

Summer Jobs in Australia for Foreigners

If you are curious about the Work & Holiday visa, perhaps you are wondering what kinds of summer job opportunities are available in Australia. Keep in mind that summer in Australia runs from December to February.

Here are some popular summer jobs for those on a Work & Holiday visa:

• Hospitality: Many foreigners find work in bars and restaurants, taking on casual roles that can include waiting tables or bartending.

• Childcare and Au Pairing: Working as an au pair or in childcare is a common option, allowing you to earn money while experiencing family life in Australia.

• Farming and Harvest Work: Seasonal jobs like fruit-picking are popular during the summer months, especially in rural areas.

• Tourism: Roles such as deckhands, dive instructors, or surf leaders offer exciting opportunities for those interested in the tourism industry.

While some of these jobs are not exclusively summer roles, they are often sought after by foreigners looking to make the most of their Work & Holiday visa experience in Australia.