Australia has a robust economy, ranking 13th globally by nominal GDP. It’s a mixed economy, meaning it blends elements of market forces with government intervention. Australia has enjoyed a long period of economic growth, recently experiencing a rebound after the pandemic.
Australia is a popular destination with high GDP and GDP per capita, low unemployment rate (around 5%) and strong trade performance, especially due to resource exports making the country best for immigrants seeking employment opportunities.
Australia with such a strong and diverse economy attracts millions of immigrants for a temporary job or planning to settle permanently, understanding the visa requirements and employment procedures is very important. This guide provides an in-depth look at the different visa types, their requirements, entry-level job opportunities, salary expectations, and practical tips on finding and applying for jobs in Australia.
Working in Australia: Types of Visas Available
1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482): The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa allows employers to address labor shortages by bringing in skilled workers. This visa requires a job offer from an approved sponsor and typically covers stays of up to four years.
2. Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): The Skilled Independent Visa is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. This visa provides permanent residency to applicants who meet the required points threshold.
3. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): Similar to the subclass 189 visa, the Skilled Nominated Visa also offers permanent residency. However, applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government.
4. Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417): The Working Holiday Visa is designed for young people aged 18-30 (or 35 in some countries) who wish to travel and work in Australia for up to a year. This visa is popular among backpackers and those seeking temporary employment.
5. Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): The Employer Nomination Scheme visa is for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer. This visa offers permanent residency and requires the employer to meet certain sponsorship criteria.
6. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187): The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme is similar to the subclass 186 visa but is specifically for positions in regional Australia. This visa also offers permanent residency.
Working in Australia: Visa Requirements for Employment
General Eligibility Criteria: To work in Australia, applicants generally need to meet certain criteria, including:
- Proficiency in English
- Relevant skills and qualifications
- Health and character requirements
Specific Requirements for Each Visa Type: Each visa type has unique requirements. For example:
- TSS Visa: Must have an offer from an approved sponsor.
- Subclass 189 Visa: Must score enough points on the points test.
- Subclass 190 Visa: Must be nominated by a state or territory government.
- Working Holiday Visa: Must be aged 18-30 (or 35 in some countries) and hold a passport from an eligible country.
- Subclass 186 and 187 Visas: Must have a nomination from an employer and meet specific skill requirements.
Entry Level Jobs for Immigrants
Overview of Entry Level Job Opportunities: Entry level jobs in Australia are abundant, especially in industries like hospitality, retail, and agriculture. These positions are perfect for new immigrants looking to gain work experience and settle into Australian life.
Popular Industries for Immigrants
- Hospitality: Restaurants, cafes, and hotels frequently hire entry level staff.
- Retail: Stores often need assistants, cashiers, and stock clerks.
- Agriculture: Farms offer seasonal work such as fruit picking and general labor.
Application Requirements and Documents
General Documentation Needed: Regardless of the visa type, some common documents are usually required:
- Valid passport
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores)
- Skills assessment results
- Relevant qualifications and work experience records
- Health and character certificates
Working in Australia: Salary Scale for Immigrants
Here’s a general overview of salary expectations for immigrants in Australia:
| Industry | Entry Level Salary (AUD/year) | Average Salary (AUD/year) |
| Hospitality | $40,000 – $50,000 | $50,000 – $60,000 |
| Retail | $40,000 – $55,000 | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Agriculture | $35,000 – $45,000 | $45,000 – $55,000 |
| Information Technology | $60,000 – $80,000 | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Healthcare | $50,000 – $70,000 | $70,000 – $100,000 |
Employment Websites to Find Opportunities
Top Websites for Job Searching in Australia;
- Seek (www.seek.com.au): Australia’s leading job board.
- Indeed (au.indeed.com): A global job search engine with a strong Australian presence.
- LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com): Ideal for professional networking and job searches.
- Gumtree (www.gumtree.com.au): Useful for casual and part-time jobs.
- Australian JobSearch (www.jobsearch.gov.au): Government-run job search portal.
How to Apply for Employment
Steps to Finding and Applying for Jobs
- Research: Identify industries and companies of interest.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure your resume, cover letter, and references are ready.
- Apply: Use job boards and company websites to submit applications.
- Follow Up: Contact employers to express continued interest.
Conclusion
Working in Australia offers exciting opportunities for immigrants. By understanding the visa requirements, exploring entry level job options, and utilizing available resources, you can successfully navigate the Australian job market. Whether you aim to stay temporarily or settle permanently, thorough preparation and a proactive approach are key to achieving your employment goals in Australia.
