Get Ready for Work in Australia

Find out how to identify opportunities, understand how the Australian workplace operates and know your rights as an employee.

Regulations for working in Australia

There have been recent changes to Migration Regulations for Student visas. From 26 April 2008, people granted student visas will automatically receive permission to work with their visa grant. Most student visa holders will no longer need to apply separately in Australia for permission to work. People granted student visas before 26th April 2008 must still apply separately for permission to work. Full details Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC)

Find out about the regulations for working in Australia.

• Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) - Information for people who want to visit, work, study or live in Australia
• Australian Taxation Office (ATO) - What you need to know about the tax system in Australia
• The Australian Workplace Portal - The Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations gateway to employment information, government assistance, jobs, careers, training and working conditions

Getting Experience

Employers ask for experience and wide-ranging skills. How do you acquire these things, other than through paid work?

What are the alternative ways to get started in your career? Are there ways to gain personal satisfaction while building your employability skills?

The following links provide information to help you get started:

• Volunteering - a guide (.pdf 208kb), (.doc 711kb)

Getting a Job

Helpful tips on finding and applying for work in Australia:

• Finding work in Australia (.pdf, 263k), (.doc, 713kb)

Professional Year Program

• Professional Pathways Australia is the key provider of the Professional Year Programs in ICT and Accounting (SMIPA). These programs have been developed by the government and the professional bodies to enhance the employability and workplace skills of international students graduating from Australian universities. The 44 week program develops skills of graduates in all aspects of working in Australia, and includes a 12 week internship in Australia as part of the program. This program was designed under Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) guidelines and also assists international students seeking to gain permanent residency.