Working in Australia Requirements and Procedures 2025 – A Step by Step Process

Is working in Australia part of your 2025 goals? With its thriving economy, breathtaking natural beauty, and abundant career prospects, Australia continues to attract skilled workers, students, and entrepreneurs from all over the globe.

But with immigration policies and visa rules evolving each year, figuring out how to start your journey can be daunting. That’s why we’ve created this all-in-one guide—to simplify the process for you.

In this comprehensive post, you’ll discover everything you need to successfully work in Australia in 2025. We’ll walk you through updated visa categories like Skilled Migration, Employer-Sponsored Visas, and Working Holiday Visas, along with details on English language requirements, skills evaluations, and the essential documents you’ll need.

You’ll also gain insight into how to search for job openings, adjust to Australian workplace culture, and make the most of your time in this exciting and diverse country.

Whether you’re in healthcare, engineering, IT, or just starting out after graduation, this guide offers clear, practical steps to help you move forward with confidence. We’ve also included the latest updates for 2025 so you’re up to speed before making the big move.

Ready to take the first step toward your future career in Australia? Let’s dive in and turn your dream into reality.

Why Work in Australia?

Australia is known for its high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and world-class education. The country offers a wide range of job opportunities across various industries, including healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education. Additionally, Australia’s multicultural society makes it an attractive destination for people from all over the world.

In 2025, Australia continues to face skill shortages in key sectors, making it an ideal time for skilled professionals to explore job opportunities. The Australian government has also introduced several initiatives to attract international talent, including streamlined visa processes and incentives for regional migration.

Types of Work Visas in Australia (2025 Updates)

1. Skilled Migration Visas

Skilled migration visas are designed for individuals with in-demand skills and qualifications. The most popular skilled migration visas include:

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): For skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member.
• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): For skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): For skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.

2. Employer-Sponsored Visas

Employer-sponsored visas allow Australian employers to hire skilled workers from overseas. Key visas in this category include:

• Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa): For workers with skills in demand by Australian employers.
• Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa): For permanent residency through employer sponsorship.
• Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa): For regional employer-sponsored workers.

3. Working Holiday Visas

Working holiday visas are ideal for young people (aged 18-30) who want to travel and work in Australia for up to 12 months. The Subclass 417 and Subclass 462 visas are popular options for this category.

4. Business and Investment Visas

For entrepreneurs and investors, Australia offers several business and investment visas, including the Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment Visa) and Subclass 132 (Business Talent Visa).

Top Companies That Sponsor Australian Visas in 2025

Securing a job offer from an Australian company that offers visa sponsorship can significantly increase your chances of working in Australia legally. Many companies are registered with the Australian government as Standard Business Sponsors, which allows them to hire skilled workers from overseas under various visa categories, especially the Subclass 482 (TSS) and Subclass 186 (ENS) visas.

Here’s a list of top Australian companies actively sponsoring foreign workers in 2025 across different industries:

1. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

Industry: Finance & Banking
Why it sponsors: CBA recruits skilled professionals for roles in cybersecurity, finance, IT infrastructure, and data analytics.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Business Analysts, Software Engineers, Risk Analysts
Average Salary Range: AUD $85,000 – $130,000 per year

2. BHP

Industry: Mining & Resources
Why it sponsors: BHP often hires foreign engineers, geologists, and project managers due to labor shortages in remote regions.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Mining Engineers, Project Engineers, Geotechnical Specialists
Average Salary Range: AUD $95,000 – $150,000 per year

3. Telstra

Industry: Telecommunications
Why it sponsors: Telstra needs highly skilled workers in software development, cloud computing, and telecom networks.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Software Developers, Network Engineers, IT Consultants
Average Salary Range: AUD $80,000 – $140,000 per year

4. Accenture Australia

Industry: IT & Consulting
Why it sponsors: Global consultancy firm with a strong Australian presence, Accenture recruits tech and business consultants.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Data Scientists, ERP Consultants, Business Analysts
Average Salary Range: AUD $90,000 – $135,000 per year

5. Healthscope

Industry: Healthcare
Why it sponsors: With ongoing shortages in the healthcare sector, Healthscope sponsors foreign nurses and allied health professionals.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Registered Nurses, Radiographers, Physiotherapists
Average Salary Range: AUD $70,000 – $110,000 per year

6. Deloitte Australia

Industry: Audit, Tax & Advisory
Why it sponsors: Deloitte hires global talent in finance, risk advisory, and IT security.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Tax Consultants, Cybersecurity Analysts, Financial Analysts
Average Salary Range: AUD $85,000 – $125,000 per year

7. Ramsay Health Care

Industry: Healthcare
Why it sponsors: Ramsay operates hospitals and aged care facilities and hires foreign-trained doctors and nurses.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Registered Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Medical Officers
Average Salary Range: AUD $70,000 – $115,000 per year

8. Atlassian

Industry: Software & Technology
Why it sponsors: Atlassian has a global reputation for tech innovation and hires developers and engineers worldwide.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Full-Stack Developers, UX Designers, Cloud Engineers
Average Salary Range: AUD $100,000 – $160,000 per year

9. Multiplex

Industry: Construction & Engineering
Why it sponsors: With large-scale infrastructure projects ongoing, Multiplex sponsors foreign engineers and tradespeople.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Site Engineers, Project Managers, Civil Engineers
Average Salary Range: AUD $85,000 – $135,000 per year

10. CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation)

Industry: Research & Development
Why it sponsors: Australia’s national science agency sponsors research professionals, particularly in data science and climate research.
Typical Sponsored Roles: Data Scientists, Research Fellows, Software Engineers
Average Salary Range: AUD $90,000 – $145,000 per year

Step-by-Step Process to Work in Australia in 2025

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before applying for a work visa, you must determine your eligibility. Factors such as your occupation, skills, age, and English language proficiency will play a crucial role. Use the Australian Government’s SkillSelect tool to check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa

Based on your eligibility, choose the visa that best suits your needs. For example, if you have a job offer from an Australian employer, an employer-sponsored visa may be the right choice.

Step 3: Skills Assessment and English Language Requirements

Most skilled migration visas require a skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority. Additionally, you’ll need to meet English language requirements by taking tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

For skilled migration visas, you’ll need to submit an EOI through SkillSelect. Your EOI will be ranked based on factors such as age, skills, and work experience.

Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your EOI is successful, you’ll receive an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs. This is your opportunity to formally apply for the visa.

Step 6: Lodge Your Visa Application

Submit your visa application along with all required documents, including proof of skills assessment, English test results, and health and character certificates.

For official visa applications, visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

Step 7: Wait for Visa Approval

Visa processing times vary depending on the type of visa and your circumstances. You can track your application status online.

Step 8: Move to Australia and Start Working

Once your visa is approved, you can move to Australia and start working. Don’t forget to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) and open an Australian bank account.

Salary Scale for Immigrants Working in Australia

Australia is a popular destination for skilled immigrants due to its strong economy, high standard of living, and competitive salaries.

However, the salary scale for immigrants can vary significantly depending on factors such as occupation, industry, location, experience, and visa type. In this section, we’ll explore the salary expectations for immigrants working in Australia, including minimum wage standards, average salaries by industry, and regional differences.

Minimum Wage in Australia

As of July 2023, the national minimum wage in Australia is AUD 23.23 per hour or AUD 882.80 per week (based on a 38-hour workweek). This rate applies to all employees, including immigrants, unless they are covered by an award or enterprise agreement that provides for a higher wage.

Key Points About Minimum Wage:

• Applies to full-time, part-time, and casual workers.
• Casual employees receive an additional 25% loading to compensate for lack of paid leave.
• Some industries, such as hospitality and retail, may have specific award rates that differ from the national minimum wage.

Average Salaries by Industry

Salaries in Australia vary widely depending on the industry and level of expertise. Below is a breakdown of average annual salaries for some of the most popular industries among immigrants:

1. Healthcare and Nursing

• Registered Nurse: AUD 70,000 – AUD 100,000
• General Practitioner (GP): AUD 150,000 – AUD 300,000
• Specialist Doctors: AUD 200,000 – AUD 500,000+

2. Information Technology (IT)

• Software Developer: AUD 80,000 – AUD 120,000
• Data Scientist: AUD 90,000 – AUD 140,000
• IT Project Manager: AUD 100,000 – AUD 150,000

3. Engineering

• Civil Engineer: AUD 75,000 – AUD 120,000
• Mechanical Engineer: AUD 80,000 – AUD 130,000
• Mining Engineer: AUD 120,000 – AUD 200,000

4. Construction and Trades

• Electrician: AUD 60,000 – AUD 100,000
• Plumber: AUD 55,000 – AUD 95,000
• Construction Manager: AUD 100,000 – AUD 180,000

5. Education and Training

• Primary School Teacher: AUD 70,000 – AUD 100,000
• Secondary School Teacher: AUD 75,000 – AUD 110,000
• University Lecturer: AUD 90,000 – AUD 150,000

6. Hospitality and Tourism

• Chef: AUD 50,000 – AUD 80,000
• Hotel Manager: AUD 60,000 – AUD 100,000
• Tour Guide: AUD 45,000 – AUD 70,000

7. Agriculture and Farming

• Farm Worker: AUD 50,000 – AUD 70,000
• Agricultural Scientist: AUD 70,000 – AUD 120,000
• Farm Manager: AUD 80,000 – AUD 130,000

Regional Differences in Salaries

Salaries in Australia can vary significantly depending on the location. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane tend to offer higher salaries due to the higher cost of living. However, regional areas may offer competitive salaries in industries like mining, agriculture, and healthcare, along with additional incentives for immigrants.

Examples of Regional Salary Differences:

• Sydney: Higher salaries in finance, IT, and healthcare, but higher living costs.
• Melbourne: Competitive salaries in education, engineering, and creative industries.
• Perth: High salaries in mining and resources sectors.
• Regional Areas: Lower living costs and incentives like regional visas and employer-sponsored opportunities.

Factors Affecting Salary for Immigrants

1. Visa Type

• Skilled Migration Visas: Typically offer higher salaries as they target in-demand professions.
• Working Holiday Visas: Often involve temporary or casual work with lower wages.
• Employer-Sponsored Visas: Salaries depend on the employer and industry.

2. Experience and Qualifications

• Immigrants with extensive experience and recognized qualifications often command higher salaries.
• Some professions require skills assessments or licensing, which can impact salary levels.

3. English Language Proficiency

• Strong English skills can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

4. Negotiation Skills

• Negotiating your salary during the job offer stage can significantly impact your earnings.

Tips for Maximizing Your Salary as an Immigrant

1. Research Industry Standards: Use platforms like PayScale and Glassdoor to understand salary ranges for your role.
2. Obtain Local Certifications: Some professions require Australian-specific certifications or licenses.
3. Leverage Networking: Connect with industry professionals to learn about high-paying opportunities.
4. Consider Regional Opportunities: Regional areas often offer competitive salaries and lower living costs.
5. Improve Your Skills: Invest in upskilling or certifications to increase your earning potential.

Note: For the latest information on minimum wage and industry standards, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman website.

Finding a Job in Australia

Top Industries Hiring in 2025

• Healthcare and Nursing
• Engineering and Construction
• Information Technology (IT)
• Education and Training
• Agriculture and Farming

Job Search Platforms

• Seek
• Indeed Australia
• LinkedIn

Networking Tips

• Attend industry events and job fairs.
• Join professional associations and online forums.
• Connect with Australian employers on LinkedIn.

Costs of Working in Australia

Visa Application Fees

• Skilled Migration Visas: AUD 4,240 (primary applicant)
• Employer-Sponsored Visas: AUD 2,645 to AUD 4,240
• Working Holiday Visas: AUD 495

Cost of Living

• Average monthly rent: AUD 1,500 to AUD 3,000
• Groceries: AUD 300 to AUD 600 per month
• Public transport: AUD 150 to AUD 200 per month

Relocation Expenses

• Flights: AUD 1,000 to AUD 2,000
• Shipping: AUD 500 to AUD 2,000
• Temporary accommodation: AUD 1,000 to AUD 3,000

Settling in Australia

Understanding Australian Work Culture

• Australians value work-life balance and teamwork.
• Punctuality and professionalism are highly regarded.

Housing and Healthcare

• Research housing options before arriving.
• Enroll in Medicare for access to public healthcare.

Education and Family Support

• Australia offers excellent education options for children.
• Explore family support services in your area.

FAQs About Working in Australia

1. What is the minimum salary in Australia?

The minimum wage in Australia is AUD 23.23 per hour (as of 2023).

2. Can I bring my family to Australia?

Yes, most work visas allow you to include family members in your application.

3. How long does it take to get a work visa?

Processing times vary, but skilled migration visas typically take 6 to 12 months.

4. Do I need health insurance?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for most visa holders.

5. Can I apply for permanent residency?

Yes, many work visas offer pathways to permanent residency.

Conclusion

Working in Australia in 2025 offers incredible opportunities for skilled professionals, students, and entrepreneurs. By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the visa process, find a job, and settle into your new life Down Under.

Whether you’re drawn to Australia’s thriving economy, stunning landscapes, or multicultural society, your dream of working in Australia is within reach.