Your guide to migrating to Queensland: tips on looking for work

22 February 2018
By Official BSMQ

So you are looking for work in Queensland? Here are some handy tips to help you with your job search.

Where should I search?

You can browse job search websites, local newspaper job advertisements and social networks, and even register with a recruitment agent in your area. Some of these job search sites are listed on our Working in Queensland page.

It is important to also build a network, as word of mouth is an avenue that you might be able to able to use to find out about job vacancies – not all jobs are advertised. You can build networks through volunteer work and joining community groups in the area. You can search the Queensland Multicultural Resource Directory online and local council website to find groups that may be of interest to you. To look for volunteering opportunities, see volunteering opportunities on the Queensland Government website, Volunteering Queensland, GoVolunteer, the Smith Family and Professional Services Collective. This will also assist you in building your Australian work experience.

 

How do I understand what job opportunities are available?

You should research the area you wish to settle in to understand the main industries as most of the employment opportunities will flow from there. You can find out more about the Queensland regions on our website, and through our blog series. Other information sources include Trade and Investment Queensland and Business Queensland’s information on the regions and the Queensland Government central website.

Your local council is also an important place to get more information about employment in the area and what assistance is available for job seekers and for migrants. Find your local council using the local government directory.

 

Is there job assistance for migrants?

You may contact the relevant industry associations to provide more information about your industry, training and education programs, and to connect you with the industry. There may also be employment and training expos/ forums available in your local area, usually run by the local council in conjunction with employers.

Many community organisations or hubs also provide job hunting assistance, including help with your application and job interview techniques. For more information and on how to search for the relevant organisations in your area, please see our migrant support page.

You can also check out the Queensland Government’s tips on how to write a cover letter and resume, and preparing for an interview.

 

How do I understand what skills and training I need for my particular occupation in Australia?

It may be useful for you to visit the Australian Government’s Job Outlook site, which also provides information about Australia careers, labour market trends and employment projections. They have job profiles which include the normal tasks undertaken, job titles, skill level and education, related occupations, average weekly pay, industries and future growth for a range of different occupations. You also may need to apply for overseas skills recognition.

 

How can I meet the 12 month work requirement if I am a 489 visa holder?

Remember that if you are a 489 visa holder, in order to be eligible to apply for permanent residency, you need to meet the living and working requirement. It states on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) website that the work requirement is full time in a regional area for at least a year while holding the skilled visa, and this work can be in the nominated occupation or another field. It also says that secondary applicants (i.e. dependants and partners) on the skilled visa which meet the eligibility criteria can become the primary applicant at the permanent residency application stage. See the Department Home Affairs website for more information on the Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887).