15 High-Demand Jobs in Australia for Foreign Workers
If you’re looking to immigrate and find a job in Australia, you’ll want to market yourself in an area with plenty of demand. In order to help you, we’ve compiled a list of 15 high-demand jobs in Australia for foreign workers!
1. Construction
After the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) in 2008, demand for workers in the construction sector fell by the wayside. However, the economy has recovered in recent years after many previous construction workers left the industry. This has led to a high shortage of workers. Moreover, Australia is currently hitting a positive upturn in its housing market, leading to a high demand for construction workers to build new houses. This makes construction an excellent industry for overseas workers. You can find more here: http://www.visabureau.com/australia/builders-and-construction-workers-australia.aspx
2. Information Technology (IT)
As the world moves through the “digital age”, the shortage of skilled IT professionals is set to increase. The business sector’s increasing reliance on technology will only fuel this in years to come.
Specifically, Australia is looking for network professionals, programme and project managers and database administrators/developers. However, you’ll need a Bachelor’s Degree in order to enter this field, which could set you back around $15,000 – $33,000 if you don’t already have one. (http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/global/australian-education/education-costs)
3. Skilled Trades
Much like plumbers, migrants seeking work as electricians, mechanics and chefs are in high demand in Australia. These positions require flexibility, dexterity and on the job training. Usually, you’ll need an apprenticeship to enter a trade – take a look: http://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/
4. Healths (doctors/specialist)
It’s no secret that doctors and specialists are in demand everywhere, due to a high number of baby boomers retiring and needing medical care. Be warned however, medicine is a tough profession to get into, with a degree in Medical Sciences costing around AUD $60,000 and with harsh selection criteria.
5. Nursing
Registered nurses and midwifes are in short supply in Australia. This is a popular position for many migrant workers – particularly from the Philippines. Nurses with unrecognised overseas qualifications usually have to undergo some form of bridging course. You can find out more here: http://www.nursingcareersaustralia.com/nursing-careers/how-do-i-become-a-nurse-in-australia/
6. Architecture
With an increase in demand for construction and housing comes an increase in demand for architects. In order to legally identify as an architect through the Architect Accreditation Council of Australia and you’ll need an overseas qualification in architecture. You can find more here:
http://www.aaca.org.au/overseas-qualifications-assessment/
7. Plumbers
With housing demand and population booming, there is a huge demand for plumbers, especially considering the average worker age within the industry being 55. Furthermore, Victoria is offering visa nomination for eligible plumbers – you can find more here: http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/working-and-employment/occupations/plumber#.VWrVltKqpBc
8. Education
High population growth means that education professional are in high demand, particularly in the Early Childhood realm. There’s also a reasonable demand for secondary school teachers in maths, science, languages, design and technology. Generally, you’ll need a Bachelor of Education in order to enter this profession and you’ll need to be registered with the State’s College of Teachers.
9. Accounting and Finance
The amount of jobs in accounting and finance is expected to increase by 21,400 in the years leading up to 2017, mainly to cope with the downturn of positions from the GFC. Be warned however – tax law in Australia is different from overseas (such as the UK). Generally young accountants with a little (but not overly specialised) experience have the best chance of recruitment.
10. Engineers
The worldwide shortage of engineers is pretty obvious in Australia. In particular, there is a huge demand for civil engineers and building services professionals. There is also strong demand for Rivet Drafters and mechanical and structural engineers. You can find more here: https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/about-us/migration-skills-assessment
11. Retail Assistants
Over the five years leading up to 2017, the Australian economy will create 45,500 new retail jobs, particularly in the areas of household goods. This means that there is good demand, but still reasonable competition, for retail workers. Employers are attempting to encourage people to see retail as a perpetual career – rather than being perceived as a “part time” job.
12. Human Resources
Since the Australia economy has picked up following the GFC, more workers have been hired. Obviously, hiring new workers requires hiring people to hire new workers. While you may be out of luck if you’re in the business of hiring workers to hire workers – if you’re an HR professional, there’s plenty of demand for you. Furthermore, new legislation and policies in Australia have increased the demand for workers in the Human Resources sector.
13. Digital Marketing
As global technology improves, advertising is becoming more and more prevalent online. Companies are creating online business and require an online digital marketing strategy. As this happens, more qualified marketing professionals are required, creating a strong demand for specialists in Australia.
14. Secretaries, PAs, and Office Support Staff
If you’re super organised and efficient, there are plenty of openings in office administration. You’ll need to be able to handle phones, photocopiers and office software, among other things. A fast typing speed, computer literacy and a warm personality are all essential.
15. Oil and Gas
There’s reasonable demand for those in the area of geoscience, including Petroleum Engineers and Development Geologists. Be forewarned though, as demand isn’t as high as many other areas currently, due to a low global demand for resources caused by China’s economic growth slowdown. This has also reduced careers in mining and resource extraction. It’s not all gloom and doom though – there’s reasonable evidence to suggest that this will pick up before long.
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