How to Get a Job in Australia for International Students: 3 Secrets That Work

The Challenge

If you’re an international student in Australia, you already know that getting a job here isn’t as simple as sending out a few resumes. You’re competing with hundreds of applicants — many with local experience and no visa restrictions.

The good news? With the right approach, you can stand out and land a skilled job — even without PR, local experience, or a big network. I’ve seen it happen over and over again with my clients.

4 Strategies to Get a Job in Australia as an International Student

1. Start Your Job Search Early — Don’t Wait Until Graduation

One of the biggest mistakes I see? Waiting until you graduate to start applying.

By that point, you’ve lost valuable time — and you’ll be competing with other graduates, including locals, for the same positions.

What to do instead:

• Begin researching industries and companies at least 6–12 months before graduation.
• Build connections on LinkedIn now — not later.
• Apply for internships or part-time roles in your field while you’re still studying.

I had a client who started networking in her second year. By the time she graduated, she already had multiple interviews lined up — and an offer within weeks.

2. Customise Your Resume for Every Application

Generic resumes rarely get results. Most companies in Australia use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before a human ever sees them.

Your action steps:

• Tailor your resume to each role by using keywords from the job description.
• Highlight your achievements, not just job duties.
• Quantify results whenever possible — for example: “Increased social media engagement by 35% in 3 months” instead of “Managed social media accounts.”

Even if you don’t have local experience, showcase the value you delivered in your previous roles or volunteer work.

3. Build a Strong LinkedIn Presence

Many international students treat LinkedIn like a static online resume — but it’s a powerful networking and job search tool when used correctly.

Optimise your profile by:

• Using a professional photo.
• Writing a headline that includes your target job title and a key skill.
• Crafting a compelling About section that highlights your strengths and career goals.

Once your profile is ready:

• Post insights, industry news, or reflections on projects you’ve done.
• Comment thoughtfully on posts in your field.
• Connect with recruiters, hiring managers, and peers — but send a short personalised note with each request.

4. Network Strategically (Even If You’re Introverted)

Networking doesn’t have to mean awkward events or cold-calling strangers. Think of it as relationship-building.

Ways to network effectively:

• Attend industry webinars or professional meetups.
• Volunteer in relevant projects or organisations.
• Reach out to alumni from your university who are working in your field.

Remember: 40% of jobs in Australia are filled through referrals — and referred candidates have a much higher chance of being interviewed.

Real Client Success Story

Long, a civil engineering graduate, had applied for over 50 jobs with no response. He had no local experience, no PR, and a temporary visa. After working together, he rewrote his resume to pass ATS, built a targeted LinkedIn network, and practised for interviews. Within 8 weeks, he received his first job offer — from a top engineering firm.

Your Next Step: Get the Skilled Job Starter Kit

If you want a proven system to land a job in Australia faster, start with the Skilled Job Starter Kit. It’s free, and it includes:

• A resume template that passes ATS filters.
• A LinkedIn checklist to attract recruiters.
• Interview tips to help you win offers.

👉 Download it here

FAQs

Do I need PR to get a skilled job in Australia?
Not necessarily. Many of my clients have landed skilled jobs on temporary visas by showing their value clearly and targeting the right employers.

How long will it take to find a job?
With the right strategy, my clients often see results in weeks — not months. However, timelines can vary depending on your field, experience, and job market conditions.

What if I have no local experience?
You can still stand out by showcasing relevant skills, achievements, and by building credibility through internships, volunteering, or project work.