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Getting a Job

Study Australia - Getting a Job

There are many ways to find a job in Australia. The most common ways are through newspaper ads, employment agencies, government national employment services, and job networks. For the most part, searching for a job in Australia is no different than looking for a job anywhere.

Finding a Job

One of the first things you should do when searching for a job is to research the companies you are interested in. After you have done your research, you should send in an application or resume to the company and schedule an interview. In order to acquire a job a student must exude good manners and punctuality when interviewing. Have your phone on you at all times in case a prospective employer calls. Be persistent. Remember when looking for a job that school comes first so the jobs you'll look for will have hours during the night. Visit Work in Australia for more tips about resume writing and the application process.

After You Have the Job

A few things to make note of after you have secured a job in Australia:

  • Never sit down in front of an employer unless the job is designed so that you do so
  • Don't show signs of tiredness
  • Have good hygiene
  • If working around food, clean hands and nails are a must
  • Classes come first over work
  • Average pay is roughly A$19 an hour.
  • Student tutors average A$40 an hour.
  • You could get paid more for working on a Sunday or a holiday depending on your employer

Jobs that were unappealing at home might be viewed differently in a new country. The jobs most most easy to obtain might not be the most interesting, but having a job at all will help immerse you in the culture. The fact that you will be in a new place with new and interesting people will be more important than what you are actually doing.

Typical jobs held by international students can include:

  • Picking/packing fruits and vegetables
  • Department store staff
  • Bartender
  • Kitchen hand
  • Waiter
  • Cleaner
  • Gardener
  • Clerical assistant
  • Babysitter
  • Tutor
  • Staff in fast food chain
  • Supermarket staff
  • Cinema staff
  • Translators

Struggling with English?

Being proficient in English has its advantages but it is not essential. Students who are still struggling with the language have many jobs they can do. If you aren't skilled in English many jobs in manual labor are often readily available.

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