Australia has a highly regulated labour market with strong regional variation and persistent skills shortages in specific fields.
Sydney
The largest market. Financial services, professional services, technology, media, property and corporate headquarters.
Melbourne
Professional services, education, healthcare, manufacturing, technology and the arts.
Brisbane and Queensland
Construction, resources, tourism, healthcare and agriculture.
Perth and Western Australia
Mining and resources, engineering and related services. FIFO — fly-in fly-out — arrangements are common.
Healthcare and aged care
Sustained demand nationally across nursing, allied health, aged care and disability support. Registration through AHPRA is required for regulated professions.
Construction
Demand for trades, engineering and project management, with licensing requirements varying by state.
Education
Teaching and the tertiary sector, with state-based registration for teachers.
Technology
Concentrated in Sydney and Melbourne, with growing remote arrangements.
What actually works
- A complete profile. Recruiters filter on experience and skills.
- State your work rights plainly — citizen, permanent resident, or the visa you hold.
- Registration where your profession requires it, particularly AHPRA for health.
- Ask which modern award covers the role — it sets minimum pay and conditions.
Overseas qualifications
Many regulated professions require skills assessment and registration with an Australian body. Start early; assessments take time.
Why the award question matters
Modern awards set minimum pay rates, classifications, penalty rates and allowances for a sector. Knowing which applies tells you whether an offer is above or below the floor.
It also affects unfair dismissal eligibility, since the high income threshold only excludes people not covered by an award or agreement.
Long service leave
A state-based entitlement accruing over long tenure with one employer. Worth understanding if you are planning a long stay.
Watch for scams
No legitimate employer charges you to apply, to interview, or for training. Be especially cautious of anyone charging for visa sponsorship — that is unlawful.