Working in and immigration to Tasmania

Working in Tasmania
Many international students are successful in finding part-time, casual or unskilled work while they are studying. But offers of employment are not guaranteed and students cannot realistically expect to finance their education and stay in Australia through such work. Ultimately, it is the sole responsibility of the student in finding work.

Obtaining a work permit
Applications need to forwarded to the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA). A fee of A$60 applies and which entitles you to work up to a maximum of 20 hours per week during semester and no limits during public holidays and vacation periods.

Obtaining work
Important steps in applying for work include preparing resumes and making presentations at interviews. Employers normally prefer candidates with competent English language skills. TAFE Tasmania provides many courses to do with job seeking and CV preparation.

Australian taxes and superannuation contributions
A tax file number (TFN) is required for work in Australia. In addition, superannuation contributions may also be required on your part which can be refunded on departure from Australia.
Rates for casual part-time employment depend on a variety of factors such as age and experience.

The following may be able to assist you in your search for work :

Employment notice boards on campuses
Personal contacts
Local newspapers
Internet job search

An up-to-date curriculum vitae and an appropriate performance in interview situations are – naturally – important requirements when seeking for an employment. However, international students with good knowledge of the English language might have fewer problems to find an adequate part-time job.

Students who are interested in staying in Tasmania after finishing their studies have the opportunity to apply for a Skilled Sponsored visa or a Skilled Regional Sponsored visa. For both visa schemes it is necessary that applicants fulfils the following conditions:

The occupation must be in demand in Tasmania. That means it must be listed on Tasmania’s Skill Shortage list or on Tasmania’s Regional Sponsored Occupations (SRSO) list.

Applicants must have a job offer from a Tasmanian employer.
Applicants must have appropriate English language skills. (Specified requirements are enlisted on the website of the Tasmanian Department of Economic Development and Tourism.)
Applicants must have at least AUD $20.000 in transferable assets when settling in Tasmania. Relocation Costs are not part of this amount.
Applicants must have demonstrated links to Tasmania such as family and friends or earlier visits of the island.
Because of (changing) requirements and some administrative hurdles you have to overcome it is highly recommended to seek the help of a registered migration agent.