Job search and salaries in Australia - important information for expats

Australia attracts thousands of emigrants every year who are looking for new career opportunities and a better standard of living. But before you take the plunge and plan your move to Australia, it's important to find out about the job opportunities and salaries in the country. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the job landscape, salaries and cost of living in Australia.

Australia offers comparatively high salaries, which is one of the main arguments for many who emigrate to Australia. The minimum wage is around AUD 21.38 per hour (as of 2024), which equates to around AUD 42,000 per year. The average salary in Australia varies depending on the industry and region, but is often between AUD 65,000 and AUD 85,000 per year. However, these high salaries also reflect the relatively high cost of living, especially in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne.

While salaries in Australia appear attractive, the cost of living is correspondingly high. Rent, food and leisure activities are more expensive than in many other countries. Anyone planning to move to Australia should take this into account when planning their budget in order to lead a comfortable life in Australia.

Australia offers a wide range of employment opportunities, especially in certain industries that are constantly looking for skilled workers. Here are some of the most in-demand occupations:

Healthcare

• Doctors and nursing staff: Due to an ageing population and a shortage of local specialists, doctors, nurses and care workers are in high demand.

Building industry

• Civil engineers and skilled workers: With numerous infrastructure projects underway, there is a constant demand for qualified civil engineers and skilled workers.

IT and technology

• Software developers and IT experts: The technology industry is booming and there is a high demand for specialists in areas such as software development, IT security and data analysis.

Education

• Teacher: There is a need for qualified teachers, especially in rural areas.

Agriculture

• Agricultural worker: Working in the outback, i.e. in rural and remote regions, can be an option for many emigrants to obtain visa extensions.

Working in the outback, the remote and rural areas of Australia, plays an important role for many emigrants who want to stay in the country long-term. The Australian government has introduced special regulations that make it possible to obtain certain visa benefits by working in these regions. This is particularly relevant for those who come to Australia on a temporary visa and hope to extend their stay or gain permanent residency status.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462):

• Many young travelers use the Working Holiday Visa to explore Australia and work at the same time. To apply for a second or even third year on this visa, applicants must work a certain number of days in rural areas, often in agriculture or construction.

• This work must be carried out in certain regions and sectors in order to be counted towards a visa extension.

Regional Skilled Migration Visa:

• The Regional Skilled Migration Visa is available for skilled workers who work in rural regions. This visa requires the applicant to live and work in a region that is classified as “regional”. These regions often offer additional points in the points system for issuing visas.

Employer-Sponsored Visas:

• Companies in rural areas that have difficulty finding skilled workers can sponsor international workers. These visas often offer a faster route to permanent residence status.

Experiences and adventures: Working in the outback not only offers professional experience, but also the opportunity to experience the unique and breathtaking nature of Australia. From working on a cattle farm to participating in mining projects, there are many adventures to be had.

Community and culture: Rural communities in Australia are known for their hospitality and strong sense of community. Expats working in these areas have the opportunity to immerse themselves deeper into Australian culture and build close relationships with the locals.

Career opportunities: In many rural areas, there is a shortage of skilled labor, which often leads to faster advancement opportunities and competitive salaries.

While working in the outback offers many benefits, there are also challenges to consider. The isolation and limited infrastructure in some areas can be a challenge for some. It is important to prepare well and understand the conditions of the region you want to work in.

Overall, working in the outback can be a valuable experience for many expats, offering not only career benefits but also a deeper insight into Australian life and culture. Those who take advantage of the opportunities these regions offer can not only extend their time in Australia, but also enrich it.

Moving to Australia can offer many benefits, from attractive salaries to diverse career opportunities in in-demand industries. However, it is important to consider the high cost of living and the requirements for certain visa categories. If you are well prepared, you can fully enjoy the adventure of living in Australia and benefit from the career opportunities in the long term.