Finding Work In Australia: A Guide For Filipinos

how to find a job in australia from philippines

If you're a Filipino seeking job opportunities in Australia, there are several avenues you can explore. Online job portals such as SEEK, LinkedIn, and Indeed offer a variety of job listings in Australia specifically for Filipinos. These platforms provide a range of positions, from sales and marketing to education and human resources. It is recommended to tailor your resume or CV to the Australian market and be prepared to obtain the necessary work permits or visas if you're not an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Networking is also crucial for finding job opportunities in Australia, so make use of recruitment agencies, professional networks, and industry events to connect with potential employers. Additionally, consider familiarizing yourself with Australian workplace culture, employment laws, and taxation to ease your transition into the Australian job market.

Characteristics Values
Job Portals SEEK, Indeed, LinkedIn
Job Roles Sales, Marketing, HR, Software Developer, Interpreter, Project Coordinator, etc.
Location Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, etc.
Visa Working Holiday Visa, Subclass 482, etc.
Resume/CV Tailor to the Australian market, include relevant skills and experiences
Company Websites MNCs, AUG Global Network, Telstra, etc.
Recruitment Agencies POEA Jobs Abroad
Networking LinkedIn connections, industry events
Workplace Culture Understand cultural norms, customs, and practices
Taxation Familiarize with the Australian taxation system

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Networking and job search strategies

Online Job Portals and Company Websites:

Use online job boards such as Seek and LinkedIn to search for job openings and connect with employers. Don't forget to set up job alerts to stay notified about new opportunities. Additionally, visit the websites of multinational companies operating in Australia and look for career sections where you can directly submit your CV, even if there are no current openings.

Recruitment Agencies and Professional Networks:

Engage with recruitment agencies that specialize in placing candidates in Australia, such as POEA Jobs Abroad. They can provide valuable insights and connections to potential employers. Also, leverage your professional networks, including industry contacts and alumni groups, to gather information about job openings and referrals.

Networking Events and Industry Connections:

Attend industry events, conferences, and networking sessions to meet potential employers and professionals in your field. Building personal connections can open doors to unadvertised job opportunities and referrals. Keep an eye out for Australian industry events happening in the Philippines or virtual events you can attend remotely.

CV and Cover Letter Customization:

Ensure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the Australian market. Highlight any relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments that align with the requirements of the Australian industry you're targeting. A well-crafted cover letter explaining your skills and real-life experiences can set you apart from other candidates.

Work Permits and Visas:

Familiarize yourself with the necessary work permits or visas required to work in Australia. Understand the specific requirements and processes to ensure you're eligible to work in the country before starting your job search.

Australian Workplace Culture and Employment Laws:

Take time to understand Australian workplace culture, customs, and employment laws. This includes embracing diversity, respecting cultural differences, and adapting to Australian work practices. Knowing what to expect in the Australian workplace can better prepare you for the job search process and increase your chances of employment success.

Remember, a combination of proactive job searching, networking, and tailoring your application to the Australian market will greatly enhance your prospects of successfully finding a job in Australia.

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Resume/CV formatting

When applying for jobs in Australia, it is important to tailor your resume to the local conventions and expectations. Australian resumes differ in format and style from those in the Philippines, so it is crucial to understand these differences. Here are some key points to consider when formatting your resume for a job application in Australia:

Length and Format:

Australian resumes are typically longer than their American or Filipino counterparts, ranging from two to five pages, depending on your experience level. You are not limited to a one-page resume as in the US, so provide a detailed account of your work history, qualifications, and skills. A chronological format is the most common, emphasising career progression, while a functional format can highlight skills and be useful if you have gaps in your employment history.

Language and Tone:

Use British English throughout your resume and cover letter. Pay attention to spelling differences, such as "colour" instead of "color" and "organise" instead of "organize". Avoid using self-inflating adjectives, as Australians generally dislike arrogance. Let your experience and qualifications speak for themselves.

Font and Layout:

Keep your formatting clean, simple, and easy to scan. Use a standard, easy-to-read font like Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica, with a font size of 11 or larger. Avoid the use of tables, graphs, or images, as many Australian businesses use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that translate your CV into digital data.

Content and Sections:

Begin your resume with a Career Objective or Resume Summary, especially if you are a fresh graduate or lack work experience. This provides an overview of your qualifications and skills, enticing recruiters to read further. Include your contact details (name, address, mobile number, email, and LinkedIn address) at the top centre, and repeat them on each page if your resume is more than one page long. Provide a detailed Work Experience section, starting with your latest job and working backwards. Include beginning and end dates, responsibilities, and quantifiable results. You may also include optional sections such as volunteer work, awards, and hobbies to showcase your personality and values.

Local Experience:

Employers in Australia, as in most countries, value local experience. Outline any relevant experience or qualifications that align with the job description and highlight how your skills match their requirements. Use specific keywords from the job description, as ATS software may be used to screen CVs for relevant terms.

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Job boards and recruitment agencies

When it comes to job boards and recruitment agencies, there are several options to consider when looking for work in Australia from the Philippines. Online job boards such as Seek, LinkedIn, and Indeed are popular platforms to search for job opportunities in Australia. Seek, for example, offers a range of roles in Australia, including administration and office support positions, as well as roles requiring specific language skills, such as interpreters.

Indeed also offers a variety of job listings in Australia, with positions available in various sectors, including education, digital marketing, human resources, and business analysis. These job boards provide a direct way to search and apply for jobs, allowing you to explore different industries and locations within Australia.

In addition to job boards, recruitment agencies can be a valuable resource. Greatways Manpower International, for instance, is a reputable recruitment agency that specializes in connecting skilled Filipino professionals with Australian businesses. With over 15 years of experience, they have a deep understanding of the international job market and can help match your skills and requirements with suitable employers in Australia.

Another established agency is AUG Global Network, an international education consultancy company with a strong presence in Australia. They provide guidance and support to students and professionals seeking educational and career opportunities in Australia and other countries. AUG has a comprehensive understanding of the Australian education system and can assist individuals in navigating their career paths and making informed decisions.

When utilizing job boards and recruitment agencies, it is essential to tailor your application materials, including your CV and cover letter, to the Australian market. This may involve understanding the specific format and style expectations of Australian employers. Additionally, networking is crucial for finding job opportunities in Australia. Building connections through professional networks and industry events can increase your chances of learning about job openings and gaining referrals.

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Work permits and visas

To work in Australia, Filipino citizens will need to obtain a visa that suits the work they intend to do. The Australian Department of Home Affairs manages visa and citizenship applications and provides the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on the requirements.

The Department of Home Affairs' visa finder can help identify the correct visa for your travel to Australia. It is important to read all the available information and instructions on the application form and the website. Applicants are encouraged to provide an Australian postal address with their application. If unable to do so, the certificate will be sent to the Australian Embassy, and the applicant will be notified about how to collect it.

When lodging your application online, you will receive a request to provide personal identifiers (biometrics) via email. You should then book an appointment at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) in person within 14 days of online lodgement. There are three ABCCs in the Philippines, located in Manila, Cebu, and Davao City. A service fee is charged for the collection of biometrics.

It is recommended to check twice and submit once to ensure a faster visa process. Applicants should use the checklists provided to ensure all required documentation is included.

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Workplace culture and employment laws

Australia has a variety of laws and regulations that govern workplace culture and employment. The Fair Work Act 2009 is the cornerstone of Australian labour law, setting minimum standards for wages, working hours, and workplace conditions. The Fair Work Commission (FWC) administers this act and governs workplace relations, establishing the national minimum wage and conditions for paid leave and termination.

There are also comprehensive anti-discrimination laws at both the state and federal levels, protecting employees from unfair treatment based on attributes such as race, gender, age, and disability. These laws also cover protections against harassment, requiring employers to create a safe and inclusive environment for all employees. The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011 requires employers to provide a safe working environment by managing risks and implementing health and safety procedures. Employers must take proactive steps to ensure safety, including providing training, maintaining equipment, and conducting regular safety assessments.

The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including employment. Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, ensuring equal access to employment opportunities and a supportive work environment.

Other key pieces of legislation that impact workplace culture and employment laws in Australia include:

  • Fair Work Amendment (Supporting Australia's Jobs and Economic Recovery) Act 2021
  • Sex Discrimination and Fair Work (Respect at Work) Amendment Act 2021
  • Fair Work Amendment (Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave) Act 2022
  • Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022
  • Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Protecting Worker Entitlements) Act 2023
  • Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Act 2023
  • Fair Work (State Declarations — employer not to be a national system employer) Endorsement (No. 2) 2024
  • Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Amendment Act 2024

Frequently asked questions

Some online job portals you can use are Seek, LinkedIn, and POEA Jobs Abroad.

Ensure that your resume/CV is tailored to the Australian market. You can use a search engine to look up tips on how to format your CV for Australia.

Consider obtaining the necessary work permits or visas if you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident. You should also familiarize yourself with Australian workplace culture, employment laws, and taxation.

Networking is essential for finding job opportunities in Australia. You can also go directly to the websites of MNCs, check for openings, and submit your CV.

Yes, it is recommended to look into visa requirements and sponsorships. For example, some visas may require a skills assessment and English test.

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