Hey! Today I am going to answer one of the most common questions I receive everyday from friends, or even on Facebook groups. “Is it easy to find a job in Australia?”
There’s one big addition everybody should make to this question.. “Is it easy to find a job in Australia… AS A STUDENT?” . Yes, this makes a big difference and I am going to explain why.
When we come to study English, Bachelor, VET (Vocational Education and Training) or other courses for example, the Immigration Department grants us a “student visa”. This visa has limitations on the amount of hours you can work per week, because the government believes that if you came to study, you have to focus on your studies and develop your academic resume rather than work many hours a week. This student visa allows students to work 40 hours fortnightly, or 20 hours per week if you want to divide.
Yes, you still can work unlimited hours, but only when you are on study breaks or holidays. Then in this time you’re allowed to work without limitation of hours.
So yes, you can work in Australia, but is also much more difficult to find a job in a company as a student, because of course the big companies want to hire people that can work a regular schedule, like 40 hours per week. Even if you can work this amount on holidays, the companies want employees working this amount the whole year, of course.
Then, at least in my opinion, the best industry to work as a student is in hospitality. When I say hospitality, I am talking about being waiter, bartender, host, or working in functions, big events, shows, weddings, stores and etc. Many people may overlook or show disdain about these jobs, but in fact they are very good as well. You can make your own schedule, you get to know many people, cultures, friends, and also you learn a lot! Even if you are not planning to work in hospitality in your career, still worths a lot to get experience and to learn many things. And by the way, you can make very good money as well, specially when working in a nice restaurant with nice tips!
Another place I see many students working is in constructions, as labour. I personally can’t do it, specially because this job demands a lot physically, and you have to wake up normally around 4am everyday. That’s not for me. But you always have this option…
So, yes, it is easy to work in Australia. If you want to work in your area, in a big company and etc, then you should search more about other visa options. I am pretty sure the government has options for people with experience, good English and formation.
Good luck!
Studying and living in Australia 