F.A.Q.

1) Is it easy to find jobs in Australia ?
A - Just like anywhere in the world. It depends on the time of year and the number of jobs offered, your skills and how good your written and spoken English are. In Jan.2004 the unemployment rate was about 5.6%. Each city has different jobs offers. The Gold Coast is better for tourism and hospitality, Sydney is better for Industry, and Brisbane and Melbourne, better for restaurants jobs. Anyway, if you go for the gold and really look for a job, soon or later you'll get something.

2) My English is not fluent, and I have had no work experience before. Is it 
going to be difficult to find a job?
A - Probably yes. But there are some jobs that don't require skills and fluent English is not 
very necessary, for example: dish washer or cleaner in restaurants and cafes, fruit picking, etc... Many new Immigrants and International Students, take these kinds of jobs in the beginning, until they get better and find something else.

3) Which Australian City pays better ?
A - Canberra, the Capital of Australia has the highest salaries with an average of A$ 520 per week. After that comes Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with an average of A$ 490 per week. The Gold Coast and other cities of the same size pay about A$ 450 per week. These are salaries for full time jobs (40 hours per week). Also note that the cost of life in these well paid cities, are higher, so whilst you may make more money, you also spend more!

4) I have very good English and work experience in my Country. Is this going to make things easier for me ? 
A - For sure. Except if your previous trade was: electrician, painter, plumber, mechanic and some others that are required to have an Australian license to work.

5) I am going to Australia with a Student Visa, can I work?
A - Yes you can, for no longer than 20 hours per week. After you start your studies, you make an appointment with the Immigration Department in your area. Take your Passport, a letter from the School stating that you have already started the course, pay a fee of about A$ 60, and that is it. You cannot miss classes to work.

6) How long can I work with a working holiday visa for?
A- You can work full time for a maximum of one year, and you can't keep the same job for more than 3 months.

7) Is it good to have a Curriculum Vitae or Resume in English?
A - Yes, many copies of them. If possible in Australian format, explaining your Transferable Skills. Many contractors, ask the candidate to bring a Resume to the interview. (Don't forget reference letters)

8) Is there any government assisted company that can guarantee me a 
job?
A - No, you are on your own. Sorry mate! But there are some courses and agencies in Australia offering Internships in many different specializations for work experience.

Important Notice: yesaustralia.com has changed in January 2007 into a newer and more comprehensive  website  www.portaloceania.com The English version on the new website is not completed yet, so we recommend to stick with this one for a while.