In recent years, a growing number of skilled professionals from around the world have set their sights on Australia, drawn by its high quality of life and robust economy. However, many are deterred by job listings specifying "local applicants only" and the seemingly insurmountable challenge of securing sponsorship from overseas. The question often arises: "Why would an Australian employer endure the lengthy visa process to sponsor someone they don't know personally?"
The reality, as we'll explore, is more nuanced and offers more opportunities than many realise.
Understanding the Landscape
While it's true that many Australian job listings prefer local applicants, this doesn't always preclude offshore talent.
The key lies in understanding which sectors face critical skill shortages. Currently, professions in teaching, nursing, medicine, and various trades are in high demand, often resulting in more openness to offshore applicants. However, even in fields not listed as priority occupations, opportunities exist for those who approach the process strategically.
Currently, certain professional professions like teaching, nursing, and medicine are in high demand, often resulting in job postings with fewer restrictions. Trades occupations are in demand too. However, where one's occupation (e.g. interior designer) is not a priority occupation, they may need to look harder and smarter. The first step is making sure if your occupation is on any of the skilled occupation lists.
Many Australian organisations do turn to offshore sponsorship when they struggle to fill specialised roles due to local skill shortages. In fact, a considerable portion of the 482 visa applications we handle are for offshore applicants. After all, that is the reason why these skilled visa programs were created in the first place - to satisfy the demand for skilled labour which simply isn't being met by local workers.
However, if you have spent some time looking at job-seeking platforms in Australia (such as LinkedIn, Seek or Indeed), you would probably agree with our client's observation about the challenges of securing an employer as an offshore applicant. It does often require extensive job searching and networking efforts, and it may not be as straightforward as clicking a button and attaching a CV. We go into further detail in this article on how to maximise your chances in finding a job in Australia as an offshore applicant.
While much attention focuses on major cities, regional areas often offer more accessible pathways to sponsorship. Finding qualified professionals willing to work in remote areas can be challenging for employers, creating opportunities for offshore applicants open to these locations.
From the employer's standpoint, sponsoring an offshore worker involves additional costs and paperwork. However, many find the benefits outweigh these challenges. Sponsored workers can bring unique expertise not available locally, fresh perspectives, and valuable insights for global market expansion.
Once an interested employer is found, our process typically unfolds as follows:
- We conduct a consultation with the employer to discuss eligibility and guide them through the sponsorship process.
- If the employer decides to proceed, we advise both the employer and the visa applicant on the next steps.
Many employers are willing to navigate the visa process for the right candidate, particularly for positions requiring specific skills or expertise. This is especially true in fields experiencing significant skill shortages in Australia.
While securing an Australian employer as someone outside the country is not an easy process, it is far from impossible. It requires diligence, creativity, and persistence. Offshore applicants should remember that their unique skills and perspectives might be exactly what an Australian employer is looking for.
By embracing innovative strategies and maintaining persistence, offshore applicants can navigate the challenges and uncover the rich opportunities that exist in the Australian job market. The journey may be demanding, but for many, the reward of building a new life and career in Australia makes every effort worthwhile.
The content on this page does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Australian immigration doesn't have to be complex and we can help with your unique circumstances. To seek legal advice for information that is specific to your situation, please book a consultation.
