Starting from scratch in a new country is one of the most courageous decisions anyone can make. Leaving behind your family, friends, language, and culture to build a new life is a challenge that requires both heart and preparation. One of the biggest hurdles? Finding a job. 

That’s why at Questra, we’re here to guide you through every step of this journey. This guide will help you better understand the Australian job market and everything you need to know to kickstart your migration process confidently and legally. 

What You’ll Learn in This Guide 

• How to check if your occupation is eligible for migration to Australia 

• Key requirements: skills assessment and English language level 

• Effective strategies to find a job in your professional field 

• Types of employment in Australia and how to choose the right one 

• Work visa options and how to start your migration journey 

Why Your Career or Vocation Matters   

The path you want to take is crucial, whether it’s through your university career or vocational course. Because both your work experience, skills, and industry on demand play a key role in job search and visa eligibility.  

 Choosing a migration strategy that aligns with your career is the most wise and sustainable decision you can make. 

1. Define Your Path: Is Your Occupation in Demand?

We suggest that you consider the following before starting to apply for jobs:   

Is your profession on the Skilled Occupation List? 

Check if your occupation is on the official government list of jobs that are currently in demand in Australia and therefore have a viable migration path: Skilled Occupation List 

 Skills Assessment 

Skills Assessment confirms that your qualifications and work experience are recognized in Australia. It’s required for many skilled visas. The authorities that perform the process can be found in the following link   Assessing Authorities. If you are uncertain about how to conduct your skill assessment, Questra Immigration can assist you with the process: book a consultation here. 

English Language Requirement 

In order to meet the required minimum English level, you must take one of the accepted tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.   

 To obtain more detailed information about the types of tests, the level required for different visas, and tips on improving your English level to successfully submit the test, visit this detailed article: English proficiency tests for Australian Visas – QUESTRA 

2. Strategies to Find a Job in Your Field

It’s time to implement a strategy that will help you find the job you need:

Use trusted job platforms 

• There are multiple platforms available in Australia for job hunting. Here I leave you some of the best: 
  • Seek, the most popular job search platform in Australia, you can filter by job type, location and salary.   
  • Indeed is one of the largest platforms in the world and you can easily apply for various job options in Australia. 
  • Linked In is a professional social network, where you can not only apply for positions, but also you can network and connect with companies of interest and recruiters.  
  • Jora is another job seeker in Australia that also includes offers from agencies and specialized sites. 
  • JobSearc, an Australian government platform, focuses more on Australian residents and citizens, but also provides opportunities for foreigners with work visas. 

  It’s important to identify that every platform has its own unique approach, so it’s advisable to experiment with multiple platforms to increase your chances of discovering your dream job.   

  Build your network 

  Being known in the sector you are applying to can make a big difference. Therefore, attending professional networking events and meetups can have a significant impact. Your chances of being contacted when someone in your area is needed will be increased by expanding your contact list.   

  Tailor your CV and cover letter to the Australian format 

  When creating your resume and cover letter, it is important to follow the specific Australian format. You do not need to include photos or personal information. And it is highly recommended that you adapt both the resume as the cover letter to the position you are applying for. Highlighting the skills, qualities, and achievements that stand out most for the specific position and also emphasizing how your profile fits with the company. 

3. What to Expect in a Job Interview 

Prepare to answer the following frequently asked questions, which recruiters usually ask: 

1. Tell us about yourself. 
2. Why do you want to work here? 
3. What are your strengths and weaknesses? 
4. Can you describe a time when you had to overcome a challenge at work? 
5. How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects? 
6. Tell us about a time when you worked in a team. 
7. What motivates you in your work? 
8. What do you know about our company and our industry? 
9. What salary range are you expecting? 
10. Do you have any questions for us? 

Some tips to keep in mind:   

• Be punctual for your interview, even if it’s an online one.  
• Communicate clearly, honestly and professionally.  
• Your answers should be concise; you do not need to give many explanations, only what is related to the position you are applying for.  
• Use examples of real cases in your previous work. 

4. Understand the Types of Employment in Australia 

Knowing the different types of jobs in Australia can assist you in deciding which option is the best fit for you.   

• Permanent (full-time or part-time) – Long-term employment with full benefits (sick leave, annual leave, superannuation). 
• Temporary or Fixed-Term – Short-term roles, often project-based. 
• Casual – Flexible hours, higher hourly rate, but no job security or benefits. 
• Self-employed or freelance – Great for specialists or creatives working independently.

5. Want to Stay in Australia? Explore These Visa Options

There are various work-related visa options for qualified professionals; among these, we find: 

•   Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) 

For skilled workers, the subclass 189 visa is a permanent visa that doesn’t require sponsorship from an employer, state, or territory. This visa is based on a points system, which means that if you meet certain skill requirements, work experience, English level, age, and other factors, you are eligible. 

Main requirements:   

• To be eligible, you must achieve a minimum number of points (usually 65 points). Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English proficiency, education, work experience, and others.  
• You must have an occupation that is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).  
• You need to complete a skills assessment conducted by a designated Australian authority in your area of work.  
• The general age range is between 18 and 44 years old.  
• It is necessary to demonstrate a level of English that is adequate (typically 6.0 IELTS score or equivalent). 

Advantages:   

• You do not need sponsorship from an employer or a state/territory.  
• It is a permanent visa, which means you can live and work indefinitely in Australia.  
• You can include family members in your application. 

• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
  

A subclass 190 visa is a long-term visa for skilled workers who have been designated by an Australian state or territory. Similar to visa 189, it is based on a points system, but you need the nomination of a state or territory to apply. 

Main requirements:  

• State/territorial nomination: You need to be nominated by a state or territory. Each state or territory has its own set of claimed occupations and additional requirements.  
• Points system: Like visa 189, you must meet a minimum of 65 points.  
• Skill assessment: You must pass a skills assessment by a relevant Australian authority. 
• Occupation list: You must have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or State/Territory Nominated Occupation List.  
• English proficiency: You need an adequate level of English. 

Advantages:  

• By being nominated by a state or territory, you may have more opportunities if your occupation is more in demand in certain regional areas.  
• This visa allows you to live and work in Australia without time restrictions.  
• You can include family members. 

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) 

The subclass 491 visa is a temporary visa that enables skilled workers to reside and perform work in rural parts of Australia for a period of up to 5 years. To apply, you must have a state/territory nomination or an invitation from a family member who lives in a regional area. 

Main requirements:  

• To get this visa, you need to be nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by a family member in a regional area.  
• Like other visas, this one is based on a points system, and you must have at least 65 points.  
• An assessment of skills from a relevant authority is required.  
• You must have an occupation on the Regional Occupation List (ROL).  
• You must demonstrate an adequate level of English. 

Advantages:  

• Allows you to reside and work in the region of Australia, which could be used to obtain a permanent visa in the future, like visa 191 (Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional).  
• In some areas, there may be more opportunities due to incentives to attract professionals to less populated regions. 

• Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) 

The subclass 186 visa is a permanent visa that allows foreign workers to live and work in Australia if they are sponsored by an Australian employer. This visa is issued through three different programs: the Direct Entry Stream, the Temporary Residence Transition Stream, and the Labour Agreement Stream. 

Main requirements:  

• Employer sponsorship: You need a permanent job offer from an Australian employer who sponsors you.  
• Skill assessment: Most occupations must pass a skills assessment.  
• Proficiency in English: The level of English required varies according to occupation.  
• Work experience: For the Direct Entry Stream, at least 3 years of work experience in the occupation is generally required. 

Advantages:  

• It is a permanent visa, allowing you to live and work indefinitely in Australia.  
• You can include family members in the application.  
• Employer sponsorship means that your job is secured once the visa is approved. 

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) 

A subclass 482 visa is a temporary visa that permits foreign workers to reside and work in Australia for up to 4 years, if they are sponsored by an Australian employer. It is designed to fill job vacancies that cannot be filled by local workers. 

Main requirements:  

• Employer sponsorship: You need a job offer from an Australian employer who sponsors you.  
• Occupation list: You must have an occupation that is on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) or Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).  
• Skill assessment: In some cases, you must pass a skills assessment for the occupation.  
• Proficiency in English: You must demonstrate an adequate level of English. 

Advantages:  

• Allows you to work in Australia for up to 4 years, depending on occupation.  
• If you work in an occupation on the MLTSSL list, you may be able to switch to a permanent visa later, such as subclass 186.  
• Employers who sponsor workers may be incentivized if they hire employees from outside Australia for occupations with labor shortages. 

Full list of visa options and criteria here: Australian Work Visas

Final Thoughts: Don’t Give Up  

The process of obtaining employment in a country other than your home country can be lengthy, so don’t give up trying it for the first time. Maintain perseverance and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. It’s not impossible for you to achieve your dream of obtaining residency in Australia.   

Need Help with Your Visa or Work Rights? 

Questra’s team is dedicated to helping and advising you on the best migration decisions, so don’t hesitate to begin your process today. We are here to support you at every stage of your journey: 

• Check your occupation and visa options 
• Prepare your application and skills assessment 
• Understand your rights as a worker 
• Make confident, legal steps toward your future 

 Reach out to us and let’s get started, your new life in Australia begins here!