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How hiring works in Australia
Job ads, recruiters, cover letters, interviews, your rights at work, and the tax and super basics. In plain English, with links to the official sources.
The hiring process
From job ad to job offer
Most hiring in Australia follows similar steps. Knowing them helps you prepare for each one.
Job ads
Most jobs are advertised online on job boards, employer websites and LinkedIn. Read the whole ad. It tells you what the employer is looking for and how to apply.
Recruiters
Recruitment agencies fill many roles for employers. A recruiter is free for job seekers. Never pay a recruiter or anyone else to get you a job.
Networking
Many jobs are filled through people you know. Talk to people in your field, join professional groups and volunteer. It is normal to ask someone for a short chat about their work.
Cover letters
A short letter, usually one page, that says why you want this job and how your experience fits it. Write a new one for each application.
Selection criteria
Some jobs, often in government, ask you to answer questions about your skills. Answer each one with a real example from your work.
Interviews
Interviews are often in person, by video or by phone. Many questions ask for examples: "Tell me about a time when...". Prepare a few stories from your past work.
References
Employers often call one or two referees before they offer a job. A referee is someone who has seen your work, such as a manager or supervisor.
The offer
A job offer should set out your pay, hours, type of employment and start date. Read it carefully, and ask questions before you sign.
Interviews
Getting ready for an interview
Many interviews here ask for examples of what you have done. Short, real stories work best.
- Use the STAR method for examples: the Situation, the Task, the Action you took and the Result.
- Research the organisation. Know what it does and why you want to work there.
- Have one or two questions ready to ask at the end.
- Arrive a few minutes early, or test your video link before a video interview.
- It is fine to ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a question.
Rights at work
Your rights at work
The Fair Work Ombudsman is the official source for pay, leave and workplace rights. Its help is free.
Everyone has workplace rights
All workers in Australia have the same basic rights at work, including minimum pay, leave and protection from unfair treatment.
Pay and payslips
You must be paid at least the minimum rate for your job. Your employer must give you a payslip.
A safe workplace
Your employer must provide a safe workplace and training to do the job safely. You can speak up about safety.
Help is free
The Fair Work Ombudsman gives free information and help, and has resources in many languages.
Official help
Warning signs
- Never pay money to get a job.
- Never hand your passport to an employer to keep.
- Be careful of long unpaid "trials". Check the Fair Work Ombudsman rules on unpaid work.
- Be careful of job offers that pay in cash only, with no payslip.
Tax and super
Tax file number and superannuation basics
Two things to set up when you start work. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) explains both.
Tax file number (TFN)
Your TFN is your personal reference number for tax. Give it to your employer when you start a job so you pay the right amount of tax. Apply for it free on the ATO website.
Superannuation (super)
Super is money your employer pays into a super fund for your retirement, in addition to your wages. You can usually choose your own fund.
New to tax and super
The ATO has a simple guide for people who are starting work in Australia.
General information only. For your own tax situation, use the ATO website or a registered tax agent.
Where to look
Where to find jobs
Use several places at once, and keep a simple list of where you applied.
Can you find me a job?
We cannot promise a job. We help you prepare: your resume, your understanding of how hiring works, interview practice and local experience. Employers make hiring decisions.
Can you tell me if my visa lets me work?
No. We do not give migration advice. For visa questions, speak to a registered migration agent (check the register at mara.gov.au) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Do I need Australian experience to get a job?
Not always, but local experience and local referees help many people. Volunteering, internships and short contract roles are common ways to build them.
Should I take a job outside my field first?
Many people do, to earn and to build local experience. Others wait for a job in their field. An adviser can help you compare the options.
Talk to us
Not sure where to start?
Tell us a little about your situation. Our team will contact you within one business day.