Internships in Australia
Undertaking an internship in Australia is an interesting way to gain vital work experience, build networking connections, and to learn more about how the Australian business culture operates. If you are considering an internship in Australia, conditions to be met and procedures are explained in this article.
Conditions for doing an internship in Australia
With both businesses and employees recognising the value of internships, there are many opportunities available. It is important to note that internships can be paid or unpaid, so make sure you have the funds to sustain yourself if you accept an unpaid internship. Work placements are also common, and are similar to internships, although this is more common with younger people who commonly undertake work placements as part of their educational curriculum.
It will be much easier to find an internship if you are already in the country, as most visas for Australia apply to paid employment only, not internships or work placements. The previous visa type which allowed for work experience in Australia, the Occupational Trainee Visa, was cancelled several years ago and was not replaced. However, if you are on a Working Holiday visa, for example, you would be well-placed to find an internship. As internships can sometimes lead to job offers, this can be very beneficial for those who wish to stay in Australia after their Working Holiday visa is completed.
Finding an internship in Australia
Internships are often advertised online, through job and career websites such as Australian Internships and GradAustralia. By searching in your preferred city for an 'internship' or 'placement', you should be able to find opportunities within your area of expertise. Internships, even unpaid, can be competitive, so make sure your CV, or resume, is current and professional before submitting your application. The Australian style of CV may be slightly different than the style in your home country, so it is worth doing research online or asking a local friend to help you make edits. Career websites now have a section dedicated to tips and tricks for CV and cover letter editing and interviewing.
In addition to your CV, internships may also require a cover letter or application form and a telephone, Skype, or in-person interview. Internship interviews can be a good way to practise your interview skills in preparation for the job market. Being prepared will ensure the best outcome, which includes doing a thorough read of the company's background and website. Also, ask yourself why you are interested in the position, and how your skills and qualifications would benefit the company, as these questions may be asked of you during an interview.
Good to know:
If a company or business is not advertising any internship vacancies, but you are really interested in working with them, it is worth contacting them to ask if they would be willing to take on an intern, or if you can express an interest in consideration for future opportunities.
Working Holiday visa
If you are considering coming to Australia to undertake an internship, you may wish to apply for a Working Holiday Visa. This visa allows those under the age of 31 to come to Australia for a period of one year, with the purpose of travel and work. You can work as an intern under this visa type, although only for six months at one job. It is straightforward to apply for passport holders of most eligible countries. For more information on this visa type, please visit the Department of Immigration's website.
