The Job Ready Program, or JRP, is an essential part of the Australian immigration system. It’s designed to help international students who’ve successfully finished their studies in Australia. The main goal of the JRP is to provide a pathway for these graduates to stay in the country and gain practical work experience, which is crucial for their future careers.

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

At the heart of the Job Ready Program is the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), often called the “485 visa.” This visa has two streams, each with its own set of requirements:

1. Graduate Work Stream

The Graduate Work Stream is for international students who’ve completed a qualification closely related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). To be eligible, you must meet specific criteria, including English language proficiency and a valid skills assessment for your chosen occupation.

2. Post-Study Work Stream

The Post-Study Work Stream is open to international students who’ve finished a higher education degree in Australia, no matter their field of study. The length of the visa depends on your highest educational qualification in Australia, with options ranging from two to four years.

The Job Ready Program: A Closer Look

For those pursuing the Graduate Work Stream, there’s a comprehensive process within the Job Ready Program. Here are the key steps:

1. Skills Assessment

The first step is to have your skills assessed by the relevant authority for your chosen occupation. This ensures your qualifications meet Australia’s requirements and standards for your field.

2. Job Ready Employment

To meet the program’s criteria, you need to gain relevant work experience through paid employment in your chosen occupation. The number of hours and months required can vary depending on your specific field.

3. Job Ready Final Assessment

Once you meet the work experience requirements, you can apply for the Job Ready Final Assessment. This assessment confirms you’ve fulfilled all the program’s requirements, making you eligible for the Graduate Work Stream of the Temporary Graduate visa.

The Job Ready Program in Australia offers international graduates a valuable opportunity to jumpstart their careers and gain practical experience in their chosen fields. Whether you’re aiming for the Graduate Work Stream or the Post-Study Work Stream, it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and pathways available to you.

As immigration policies and programs can change, we recommend checking the official website of the Australian Department of Home Affairs or consulting with a registered migration agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the Job Ready Program and related visa processes. This program can be your ticket to a rewarding professional journey in Australia, so ensure you’re well-informed and prepared to take the next step in your career.

Bill Mitroulas

Head of Migration at Questra Immigration. Managing and overseeing the growth and performance of Questra’s team of migration agents, while maintaining a client-centric and quality-driven approach. A registered migration agent since 2015 and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia, with over 15 years’ experience in international education and 11 years in Australian Migration law.