Finding a job in Australia might seem hard, but I’ll give you some tips to make it easier! The Travel Tester is open for all your questions about travelling, working and living in Australia.
Question
I’ll be going to OZ on a Working Holiday Visa and was wondering if you have any tips for finding a job there for backpackers? And what do you need to organize for that?
Answer
Working is sometimes a necessary part of your travelling adventure. Getting started requires some action, but it’s all quite easy to do. Let me show you what you need for finding a job in a couple of steps:
1. Apply for your Tax File Number (TFN)
This is legally required for employers to pay tax on your behalf. You can apply online at the Australian Taxation Office and usually you can send the envelope to your hostel. It takes about 11-21 days to get your TFN. If you start your working holiday before getting your TFN, you have 28 days to provide it to your employer.
2. Get an Australian Bank Account
Most employers won’t pay you into an oversees bank account, but setting up an account is easy. The main banks in Australia are: Westpac, ANZ, NAB, Commonwealth and St.George. Opening All you have to do is walk into one of them with your passport and visa number and they can set an account up for you right away. Most banks won’t charge you for using their services, only when you use your card at an ATM of another bank, there is a service fee.
3. Get a mobile phone number
Simply buy a sim card (such as Vodafone, Telstra, Optus, Virgin Mobile), top it up with a prepaid cap (vouchers can be bought from phone shops or newsagencies) and you’re connected!
4. Join a Job Agency
Of course, you can check everywhere for employment opportunities: on hostel notice boards, in local newspapers, on gumtree.com.au or on the website of recruitment agencies.
5. Take a Training Course if needed (RSA, RCG, Green/White Card)
If you are seeking work in hospitality or construction (both industries always have plenty of available positions), you need to complete a government approved training course. For example, check the Infront Staffing website for options.
Extra tips for finding a job in Australia
Here are some other quick tips to make it easier for you finding a job:
- Dress appropriately and be professional
- Have your C.V. ready in English, both printed as online
- Make sure to provide your current contact details
- Have your phone charged at all times!
- Get references if you can.
- Have proof of all your qualifications
- Have a look at my article about Creative ways to make money while travelling as well.
Experience, commitment, good attitude and hard work is needed for finding a job in Australia. It’s expensive to train new staff, so employers expect a minimum commitment. If you demonstrate a good attitude, willingness to learn and work hard you will have a job in no time.
Keep in mind that there is much competition, so be creative in selling yourself and don’t give up easily after a rejection. Keep trying. Good luck!
Are you visiting Australia soon? Let my answers to all your questions help you plan your Australia trip:
- Where to start?
- Do I need a hostel membership card?
- Is it dangerous to travel as a girl alone in Australia?
- Campervan or public transport?
- What are the East Coast highlights?
- What budget do I need per month?
- Where and how to book a domestic flight?
- What is Wwoofing?
- What is the best Blue Mountains Tour?
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