Working in Australia can come with a range of challenges. However, as an agile and forward-thinking international student, you can navigate these obstacles and create a fulfilling career in Australia.

While you’re studying, working gives you a way to earn pocket money, and help you forge connections with locals. On a wider level, it also gives you soft skills, like insight into the Aussie work culture, a bit of a head start deciphering lingo, slang, and accents you might not otherwise encounter.

But it’s when you’re looking for full-time, permanent roles in your industry that many students start to struggle. There are some challenges that international students might face while working in Australia, but there are also ways to front-foot them and help ensure a smooth and successful working transition.

Preparing for the Job Hunt in Australia

Finding a job can be difficult. Here are 11 things you can do to help speed up the process:

  1. Before applying for roles, make sure you have an Australian bank account and TFN (tax file number)

  2. Create an amazing CV that’s formatted to suit Australian employers

  3. Include a cover letter with every job application, and ensure its tailored for the role

  4. Consider attending networking events. The MeetUp app can help with this

  5. Join professional bodies affiliated with your industry and attend any functions they offer

  6. Create a LinkedIn profile and add/follow locals who work in your field. Interact with them regularly

  7. Check out job boards at your tertiary institution

  8. Find potential jobs on Seek, Gumtree, and Indeed

  9. Some industries only list their jobs on their own platforms, like Woolworths or David Jones - check out their sites

  10. Recruitment agencies can get you temporary work, which can provide income and experience until full time work comes along

  11. Volunteering and interning won’t fill your bank account, but it’ll give you valuable work experience. Volunteering Australia and Seek Volunteering are two places you can look for roles.

Top tip: One of the best ways to get a job in Australia is by referrals and word of mouth. If you had a job while you studied, this is super helpful as it gives you a local supporter, who can give you a glowing reference. However, referrals could be from a peer or lecturer too. Ask people you look up to in your circle if there are roles they know of, and for direct referrals if possible.

Love listening to podcasts? Check out the IDP Real Talk podcast about how to find a job in Australia for more in-depth discussion with Career Expert Josh Farr.

Challenges International Students Face Working in Australia

Australia workplaces are quite different to others around the world. Aussies are irreverent, like a bit of fun, and have no issues pushing back on managers. They are relaxed and friendly, and being open and sociable is encouraged. Aussies also like people to take the initiative; they appreciate new ideas and ways of working.

That said, employers still expect punctuality, ethical and professional behaviour, for you to work hard, meet deadlines, and get your work done. Generally speaking, they’ll let you get on with it, and you’re expected to be self-directed.

This culture can be very challenging if you come from a culture where workplaces are serious, highly hierarchical, and fun isn’t encouraged.

Watch and learn from those around you. You don’t have to fit in on day one; take your time. You can ask colleagues or your boss what’s appropriate or not. More ‘measurable’ rules are usually in the employment handbook, such as the dress code or policies on overtime.

Challenges with English

Working in Australia means you have to be able to understand ‘Aussie English’ fluently. The vowels, the speed, the casual language, and all the other idiosyncrasies of Australians. Communication is vitally important to avoid misunderstandings, build relationships, and learn your role thoroughly.

No matter how amazing your English is, there are cultural references and ‘in jokes’ that will take time to understand. Australia is founded on snags and eskys and servos and goon bags, and it can be extremely overwhelming for international students. Luckily, this can be resolved (although it takes time and effort, and feeling uncomfortable at times):

  • Hang out with locals, rather than other international students. Ask about the in jokes and slang, most people are happy to explain their culture to others

  • IELTS can help, with a wealth of podcast suggestions and articles to assist you

  • Learn skills like how to initiate and maintain conversations in English

  • Do a bit of research - learn about Australian culture, society, and history. This will help with some of the ‘in jokes’. Simply following the news each day, watching a few movies and TV shows (watch ‘The Castle’ for references about jousting sticks and serenity, and ‘Kath and Kim’ for more valuable insight into Australian life). Google is also your friend for specific questions

Keen to improve your English language skills? Check out IELTS Prepare by IDP - A 10-part video podcast series to guide you through every step of your IELTS preparation journey.

Exploitation in the Workplace

To avoid being taken advantage of the best defence is to know Australian employment and workforce laws. The basic laws include:

  • You must be paid at least the minimum wage

  • You will pay tax on your income, which is deducted and paid on your behalf by the employer

  • You will get a payslip every pay period that shows your pay rates and tax

  • There are caps on working hours for students, up to 48 hours every fortnight

  • Casual work means there are no fixed hours per week. If you have fixed hours, this is considered permanent employment

Warning signs you might be at risk of being exploited include:

  • Being paid in housing or food. This is illegal in Australia

  • You do not get payslips

  • You are asked to give money back

  • You have money taken from your pay. This is not allowed for breakages, cash registers that are short, or theft.

  • You are asked to apply for an ABN: you only need a TFN

  • Your employer threatens to get you deported or report you for visa issues

  • If you are unsure or feel like you’re being exploited, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Chat to Us at IDP

Keen to speak to an education counsellor? Connect with your local IDP office and talk through your questions and concerns studying, living and working in Australia. We’d love to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What challenges do international students face while working in Australia?

There are a range of challenges for international students while working in Australia, but the main ones are:

  • Struggling to find employment

  • Communication and English shortcomings

  • Exploitation by predatory employers

  • Cultural workplace differences

How do international students gain work experience?

There are a number of ways to gain valuable work experience in Australia. Consider volunteering or completing an unpaid internship while you search for a part-time role.

What is Australian workplace culture like?

There are a number of ways Australian workplace culture can be different to what you’re used to. While being punctual, professional, and ethical is important, it’s often in a relaxed manner. Joking is common, friendly informal banter is normal, and there is a more relaxed attitude to hierarchy and rules.

How do language barriers affect international students?

Language barriers affect international students in a large number of ways. It can hinder communication with colleagues and customers, resulting in misunderstandings or errors. It can be very frustrating for both sides.

How do I build a personal brand as an international student?

You offer a unique perspective, so it’s time everyone knows it. Focus on your academic achievements, cultural viewpoint, special skills, and start engaging with others in your field. Social media platforms like LinkedIn, where your profile can showcase your talents and portfolio, and attend local networking events are a great way to start building your brand. Take on intern or volunteer roles and align yourself with people you admire in your field.

How can I get work after graduating in Australia?

You can try a few options to get a job in Australia as an international student:

  • Apply for roles via job websites like Seek and LinkedIn

  • Ask peers, employers, and lecturers for referrals

  • Join professional bodies in your industry

  • Commit to volunteer or intern work