"First Job in Australia as a Migrant: A Practical Guide"

Getting your first Australian job as a migrant is tough. I won’t pretend otherwise.

You’re competing against candidates with local experience, local references, and local networks. But it’s absolutely possible – I’ve helped hundreds of migrants land their first role.

Here’s what actually works.

The Local Experience Catch-22

Every migrant hears this: “You need local experience.” But how do you get local experience without a job?

Here’s the truth: “local experience” is often code for “we’re not sure your overseas experience translates.” Your job is to prove it does.

Translate Your Experience

Don’t assume employers understand your previous roles.

• Use Australian job titles (not your country’s equivalent)
• Convert achievements to Australian context (AUD, Australian companies, local metrics)
• Remove jargon specific to your home country
• Explain company sizes and scope

If you managed a team of 50 at a major retailer in India, say “Managed 50-person team at [Company] – equivalent to Woolworths or Coles in scale.”

The Network Gap

In Australia, many jobs are filled through networks before they’re advertised. As a migrant, you’re starting from zero.

Build your network fast:

• Join industry associations and attend events
• Connect with people on LinkedIn (write personal notes, not generic requests)
• Attend meetups in your field
• Volunteer for industry committees
• Join migrant professional networks

One coffee with the right person can change everything.

Consider a Bridge Role

Sometimes you need to take a step back to move forward. A role slightly below your experience level:

• Gets you local experience
• Builds your Australian references
• Expands your network
• Shows you understand the local market

It’s not failure. It’s strategy.

Your Resume Needs Work

Overseas resumes rarely work in Australia without changes:

• Keep it to 2-3 pages maximum
• Lead with a professional summary
• Include your visa status (eligible to work permanently, etc.)
• Remove photos and personal details (age, marital status)
• Use Australian spelling and formatting

Prepare for the “Why Australia?” Question

Every interviewer will ask why you moved here. Have a clear, positive answer:

• Career growth opportunities
• Lifestyle and family reasons
• Specific industry strength in Australia
• Long-term commitment to Australia

Avoid sounding temporary. Employers invest in training – they want people who’ll stay.

Get Local References

This is critical. Australian employers want to call Australian numbers.

Options:

• Volunteer work supervisor
• Industry mentor
• Course instructor (if you’ve done local training)
• Colleague from networking events who knows your work

Even one strong local reference makes a difference.

If you’re a skilled migrant struggling to land your first Australian role, book a session. I’ll review your resume, help you translate your experience, and prepare you for what Australian employers are actually looking for.