How can I find a job in Australia?
The sports capital of the world is once again brimming with job opportunities. March 2022 registered an increase in employment reaching 13,389,900 in Australia. The unemployment rate, which had rocketed to 7.4% in March of 2020 at the onset of the pandemic, is now down to 4% again as Australia. Along with the rest of the world, Australia continues to return to pre-covid times. With the job market regaining its stride, you might be wondering, “How can I find a job in Australia?”. Well, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out about the top 10 tips on looking for a job in Australia, the best job search websites, and the resume and interview best practices in Australia.
10 tips on looking for jobs in Australia
Looking for a job in Australia may seem like a mammoth task. It can be both exciting and nerve-wracking trying to filter through thousands of ads to find the one that seems like the perfect match for you. Job searches can be overwhelming and exhausting, and it’s only natural. You are, after all, looking to shape your future. Check out these 10 tips that are sure to make your job search in Australia considerably easier.
1. Plan it ahead
Get a plan of action. Get up and network; reach out to people who’ve been in the industry for a long. Their two cents will be valuable and might help you on your job hunt. Take some time to upgrade your skillset by picking up an internship, a volunteering assignment, or a course to further your skills. These things will set you apart from the competition when you get down to applying.
2. Get information before you apply
Gather as much information about Australia’s recruitment process as possible. Make sure your search for potential employers and local jobs is thorough. Learn about the industry you wish to break into before you even begin to put together a resume. You will be able to make better decisions and show that you understand the company’s culture and job requirements once you land a job interview.
3. Get certified
Employers might ask you to show proof of a certificate in your industry, depending on what job you are applying for. Being certified will increase your chances of getting a job. Companies can face severe penalties if they do not have these certificates. An RSA certificate is required if you wish to work in a restaurant serving alcohol to the public. Employers will require a white card if you want to work in construction, and a blue card if you’re a nanny or thinking of working with children.
4. Get on social media
The internet is an inexhaustible source of job opportunities. While most people stick to job boards and job searching sites, social media is often deemed not suitable for job applications. You’d be surprised to know that it’s picking up mileage and is a viable platform for job-hunting as well. Check out the ‘Jobs’ section on Facebook and join local groups in Australia on Facebook. Try to connect with locals within the same industry and grow your circle. And keep an eye out for sponsored ads on Instagram stories for vacancies by following the handles of companies you’re interested in. According to Australian government data, only 1% of all vacancies were advertised via social media in 2012-2013. However, this number increased to 14% between 2018 and 2019.
5. Familiarize yourself with laws
If you intend to work in Australia, then you must apply for a TFN, or Tax File Number. This is a unique identification number that is used in Australian tax systems. A TFN is required to deduct 45% from your income. Remember to familiarize yourself with tax laws, labor laws, and your rights as an employee.
6. Student visa Vs Work Visa
If you’re a student from a different country studying in Australia, it may serve you well to remember that the rules applicable to you will be different. Students on student visas are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week and 40 hours per fortnight while classes are in session. When there are no classes ongoing, you can work as many hours as you like. However, if you wish for a full-time job after finishing your course, you’ll need to apply for a work visa that allows you to work full-time.
7. Upgrade your resume and cover letter
Upgrade your resume and your cover letter to the Australian format. You don’t want to seem out of touch with industry practices. We’ve compiled a list of the best resume and interview industry practices to help you along your job search in Australia.
8. Follow up on your application
Do not be alarmed if you do not receive a confirmation of your application. It is possible that the hiring team is reviewing a lot of applications. This could take some time. The human resources department can be contacted to arrange a follow-up within two weeks. It is acceptable to make polite inquiries. This is a standard practice in Australia. It shows that you are serious about obtaining the job and are willing to take the initiative.
Employers appreciate those who are driven and enthusiastic.
9. Show up prepared
Whether your interview is online or onsite, nothing screams unprofessional like an underprepared candidate. If this is your first interview, head over to YouTube to look for frequently asked questions for your role. List down as many possible questions as you can, and practice the answers as many times as you need to perfect them. Practice will not only help you do away with lengthy, vague, or tedious answers but will also boost your confidence.
10. Keep your options open
You may find your dream job on the hunt, or you may not. Keep an open mind nevertheless and if things go south, apply for a different job you may be better qualified for. You can upgrade your skills in your free time and try to enter your preferred line of work again.
10 Job Search Websites in Australia to Try Today
If you’re looking for a job in Australia, job searching sites are your friends. We’ve listed down the best job search websites in Australia, along with their best features for you.
Job Site | Features |
Simplifies the hiring process by automating the screening, screening, and interviewing processes. It is cost-effective, efficient, and used by over 5,000 businesses. | |
It integrates with local newspapers to ensure that job postings are seen by qualified candidates. You can upload your resume to this job portal and get it checked! You can find out how much your “worth” with the ValueMyCV function! | |
LinkedIn is used by approximately 14% of Australians. This would bring the total number of Australians who are registered members to 6 million. It’s a preferred portal for job hunters in Australia, so it is no surprise that they love it! | |
Australia’s most trusted online job and resource portal dedicated to the art world. The team is committed to ensuring a vibrant, diverse and successful arts industry and culture. You can browse their most recent articles, and see the visual arts displays on this website for job seekers. This portal also provides information about the performing arts industry for interested parties. If anyone is interested in applying for grants, there’s a function called “grant searcher”. The website offers more than job searching. It also has news, education pieces, and other opportunities for those who are interested in the arts. | |
A website of the government that lists job opportunities within and outside Australia’s public sector is called APS Jobs. Visit APS Jobs if you’re looking for a job in the central or federal government. You can also view some frequently asked questions that they’ve answered before. This should clear up any doubts that you might have regarding your job search. | |
Offers a simple interface that allows you to quickly and easily collate job opportunities across many job portals. This database can be accessed by users and they don’t have to visit each job portal individually. If you have uploaded your resume to the job portal, employers can also look through your profile. This will also speed up the hiring process! | |
Is a group of diverse companies with a common purpose. They aim to make people’s lives more enjoyable and productive and support organizations in their success. This group has a diverse international network of education and employment businesses, and it is a leader in online job opportunities. This is why SEEK has been voted one of Australia’s top job websites. | |
Backpacker Job Board is the leading Australian job portal for backpackers, offering job opportunities across various sectors including agriculture, hospitality, sales, and trades, in both metropolitan and regional areas. Established in 2010, it assists working holidaymakers in securing employment to fund their travels throughout Australia. | |
Robbie Cowling, John Witney, and John Witney founded JobServe in 1993. The company was the first to offer Internet recruitment services. JobServe is now available in almost every industry sector with a global reach. You can also filter your searches by keyword, location, job type, and industry. They also have a job basket and a powerful search feature that makes them different from other competitors. JobServe is still a favorite job site for Australians! | |
AllJobs has been voted one of Australia’s best job websites. You can search by job title, description, company name, and state. It also lists jobs in New Zealand, its neighboring country. |
One of the most important things to remember while looking for a job in Australia is to ensure a near perfect resume. While drafting one, consider your strengths and other skills to offer employers and think about other unique selling points that could make you stand out among other applicants. These include language skills, knowledge of foreign markets, adaptability to new environments, cultural awareness, and international exposure. Put them under skills in your resume to get your resume to stand out.
Below, we’ve put together a list with some more tips for resume and interview best practices in Australia.
Resume and Interview Best Practices in Australia
- Your cover letter and resume play an important role in job applications. Take the time to ensure they stand out and ensure that the format of the resume and cover letter is formal.
- Your resume and cover letter should be concise and pertinent to the position for which you are applying. Make sure they are free of spelling, punctuation, and grammar mistakes. Graham Wynn of Superior People Recruitment says that this can lead to recruiters rejecting your resume immediately by showing them your lack of attention to detail, a highly undesirable quality in a candidate.
- Your resume should also be tailored to meet the needs of the company you apply to. Many job seekers apply to dozens of jobs with the same resume. While this may save you time, it will likely lack the details that the employer is looking for.
- It is mandatory to bring a copy of your resume to the interview. It should also include written references (if possible), and a portfolio of work.
- Employers in Australia value extracurricular involvement because it shows your ability to collaborate with others. It also improves interpersonal skills you might not have learned in school. Perhaps you attend an improv class on a regular basis or maybe you chair a book club! If you’re asked in for an interview, let these involvements be known!
- When you eventually score that much-deserved interview (and we know you will!) be punctual, and confident and demonstrate why you’re a good fit for their company. Australian employers value optimism and your ability to present facts in order to make a point.
- While casual attire may be acceptable in some cultures for a job interview, in Australia it isn’t. Dress formally and ensure you’re groomed. An overgrown beard or a messy bun at your interview is not likely to leave a great first impression.
- Interviews usually end with an invitation for interviewees to ask questions. In fact, this stage is often very important in interviews with Australian businesses. So, it is beneficial to prepare questions, possibly based on your research into the company. Questions that are relevant to the future of the industry, news items, and how they might relate to the organization’s future efforts are ideal. You might also want to inquire about career paths and opportunities for professional development.
Paul Di Michiel, Career Medic and acclaimed author, advises that you should take a holistic approach to your job hunt. So, if you’ve recently asked yourself the question ‘How can I find a job in Australia?’ remember to make your job hunt ‘holistic’ by connecting all aspects of the job search instead of only focussing on one thing. Your dream job in Australia is right around the corner!
