One of the big challenges for students and especially for international students is to find a job in Sydney (or other city in Australia). Considering the facts that about 70% of jobs are not advertised, overseas experience and education are not always accepted, language skills may also be an issue, finding job may be a challenge... So HOW can you find the right student job in Sydney?

Well, at first let's look at some of the main barriers of finding a job as an overseas student (please see also: Why wont Australian Employers look for overseas jobseekers?)

Issue: You are not local (temporary stay) - Some employers may object, that you will be staying in Australia for only few months or years; they will train you and you will leave.

Suggestion: Be realistic in your expectations, apply for jobs that do no require extensive training. If you believe that your skills or previous experience qualify you for the job and you do not need extensive training, let the employer know about it! Furthermore, if you are considering (and have a realistic chance) to apply for residency in the near future, let your potential employer know about your intensions. Do not wait to be asked about this, let them know in your cover letter.

Issue: English Language Skills - Most jobs require good language skills, which is understandable.

Suggestion: You have to study and PRACTICE! Speak, read and listen. While there are jobs that do not require 'perfect English', in any industry you will become more competitive, if your English language skills are good. While most of your friends here are likely from your country, remember that while in Australia you have the greatest chance to improve your English skills. Meet and talk to people from other countries and especially locals, watch Australian TV, read Australian newspapers and share accommodation with people from other countries, preferably native speakers. Remember, reading and listening will improve your understanding of English language, but to communicate, you need to SPEAK! Improve your vocabulary relevant to your preferred industry. You may have relevant experience, knowledge of the job, but make sure your vocabulary supports it.

Issue: Overseas Education / Qualifications 'Only' - Your overseas qualification may be accepted by your educational provider, but employers may find it 'inadequate', as they may have no knowledge of the quality of education in your country.

Suggestion: If possible, apply for assessment of your qualifications with appropriate authority, such as: VETASSESS (www.vetassess.com.au), AEI-NOOSR (http://aei.dest.gov.au/AEI/QualificationsRecognition/). Apply for RPL (recognition of prior learning) or exemptions with your educational provider, which will save you time and money and used the recognised part of your qualification when applying for job. Remember, your local qualification, even at lower level than your overseas qualification can have a higher value when applying for job in Australia.

Issue: Knowledge of Australian Working Standards - The problem related to your lack of local experience, as there are certain (quite strict) standards relevant to many industries in Australia.

Suggestion: Make yourself familiar with requirements, standards in your industry. You may be required to get additional qualifications or certifications. Australian business/working environment is highly regulated, so ensure you have all needed information what's expected from you.

Issue: Australian Residency / Visa Issues - As an overseas student, you have certain work limitations. Not being able to work full time, or more that 20 hours is a problem. You are here to study full time and work part-time. Part time work, however often means 24 hours a week.

Suggestion: Do your research and apply for jobs that will not be in breach of your visa conditions! There are some companies / agencies offering jobs for international students, and here at The Student Portal we encourage all of them to advertise the job openings here. The good news is that in Australia, there are many casual jobs on offer. The percentage of casual jobs offered is much higher then in most of the countries. One of the best ways to find a job is to NETWORK! Meet people and ask, ask, ask! As mentioned earlier, most jobs are not advertised and are filled from 'recommended' applicants. Be the one who is recommended.

Issue: Lack of Australian Working Experience - Yes, Australian employers prefer to fill job openings with local applicants, for obvious reasons.

Suggestion: The good news (for international students :) is that there is a skills shortage in Australia. If you have skills that are on demand, take advantage of it. Furthermore, show your future employer that you REALLY are interested in the job / industry, by demonstrating the knowledge of industry.

What is your experience with finding a job in Sydney? Log-in and Send us your story.