Job searching in Australia

I decided that I’d rather search for a job when I get there. A lot of people have been telling me that it’s best to just figure it out once I’m in Australia rather than have everything planned out before arriving.

Getting an amazing-paying job to benefit my resume is NOT on my priority list. I want to travel and soak in the culture, and whatever job I find (whether it be retail, childcare, office-work etc.) that will cover my expenses and other miscellaneous costs is fine with me.

I decided it’d be best to leave with a 4 or 5 resumes/CV’s, all customized to highlight the type of work experience that compliment the type of job I’ll be applying for. I’ll also be freelancing on the side. Won’t bring in much money but every little bit helps! 🙂

Here are a few options I’m/you may be considering:

Hospitality: hotels, hostels, restaurants, bars, cafés etc:

If you’re looking for work in a bar, you’ll need an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) Certificate. A simple Google with what city you’re in will do the trick. I’m told that the course can take as little to complete as 3 hours and ranges from $85-$130 AUS, depending on the level of certification.

This would seem like a good job to work out flexible hours, hang out with the locals and meet other backpackers. And the tips! 🙂

Office/Admin:

If you’re used to an office-type work environment, then this type of work may be something to consider. Keep in mind the type of hours you’d like to work… whether it be the standard 9-5 or part-time/casual.

It may take a little longer to get an office job compared to work in a bar, but you could find plenty of postings on sites like Seek or Gum Tree. You could also check out a local employment agency to help filter out your best options.

Nanny/Au-pair:

I’ve been seriously considering this type of work. The least I’ll do is put up a post on Gum Tree as a casual babysitter/tutor.

An au-pair position provides you with free accommodations (and most times an added weekly allowance) in exchange for child-minding, housework, cleaning etc. This would be a great position for those wanting to stay in one city for a longer time.

It would also help to be First Aid/CPR certified if you’re interested in working with children. I’d recommend you get this before leaving to Oz. For a basic certification, it costs about $150 CAD and takes up one weekend (mine was Sat/Sun 9-3p).

Farm-stay/Harvest work/Fruit picking:

This would be an awesome opportunity to meet other backpackers in the same boat. Apparently you could make a lot of money if you’re willing to work through the hard physical labour. Most places offer cheap accommodations (approx. $150/wk) or bus transportation from a specific location to the farm everyday. Harvest Hoppers seems like a good site to check out these opportunities. You could also check out the listings on Gum Tree.

For 3 months work, doing a farm-stay/fruit-picking would also make you eligible for a 2^nd Working Holiday Visa if you choose to return to Australia after your first year.

Retail:

I wouldn’t mind working retail one bit: flexible hours and generally easy work. It’d be great to socialize with others I work with and meet customers. This would also provide the minimum $ needed to cover rent/groceries and other costs.

What type of jobs have you worked will trekking abroad?