Working outside of Australia
Working overseas is a popular choice for students and graduates and can provide invaluable experience, which helps you to a more competitive resumé and to develop a wide range of employability skills that employers seek.
Graduates can work in a wide range of overseas work in paid or voluntary positions on a full-time, part-time, temporary or contract basis in order to gain international experience.
Full-time positions
Permanent full time positions for graduates with minimal work experience are generally more difficult to find, unless they are in areas of skill shortage, as there are strict work visa restrictions for most non-residents.
If you’re interested in a full-time role you will need to be very flexible in the type of work you are willing to accept and be wiling to take contract, temporary or part time work opportunities. Once you have a ‘foot in the door’ and have proved yourself, this may lead to the employer sponsoring you to take on a more permanent role in the organisation.
What’s best for me?
To choose a program that best suits your needs, you will need to answer questions such as:
- Do I desire/need academic credit?
- Do I need academic qualifications?
- Where do I want to go to and for how long?
- What do I want to do or focus on while I’m there?
- What are the requirements to participate in any given program or scheme?
- What are the costs? Can I afford it?
- Do I need to work in a paid position or can I work in a voluntary capacity?
- Is the organisation a reputable one?
- Which option will help to develop my transferable skills towards my future career goal?
Most importantly make sure to plan ahead! Start early with your preparations!
Preparing to go overseas
There are many details to consider in selecting a program and preparing to go overseas. Some useful starting points are: