Australia’s tech industry is worth over $76 billion and has been on the rise over the last decade, with a start-up rate of 5.8%, one of the fastest-growing in the world. With this, we have seen a huge rise in the demand for tech talent across the country, which provides a golden opportunity for tech professionals from around the world to come and experience the Australian lifestyle.

The most important thing when moving abroad for work, and one of the greatest determining factors of whether you move is a success or not, is being prepared! While navigating visas, finding work, and making the move to a new country can be tricky – we have come up with some top things to consider when applying for a job Down Under:

Getting a visa

If you are planning to work overseas, the first step is to find a visa. Visas are available for occupational skills that are in high demand, which due to Australia’s booming technology ecosystem, includes; Software Engineers, Designers and Product Managers.

Due to this high demand, many of Australia’s tech companies are motivated to sponsor international talent. Once nominated, you will be eligible for a 2 or 4 year visa to work with them in Australia.

Some of the most common visas for international tech recruits include:

• 482- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS): This visa type requires a company to nominate you and gives you access to a 2 or 4 year visa if your occupation is on the skills shortage list.
• 400 – Short Stay Specialist: This visa type requires a company to nominate you and can be granted for a stay up to 6 months.
• 417 – Working Holiday: People aged 18 to 30 (inclusive),and Canadian, French, and Irish citizens aged 18 to 35 (inclusive) are eligible for this visa option, for an extended holiday in Australia where you are able to work to help fund your trip.‍
• 190 – Skilled Nominated visa: Skilled employer nominated, permanent residency.
• 189 – Skilled independent visa: Skilled direct entry, permanent residency.

Learn more about Australian visas here.

Finding a job

The key is to find an employer that will sponsor your visa application. At Digital Downunder we can help you by connecting you with some of the most exciting tech brands in Australia, and we are dedicated to finding the best role and company fit for you.

Salary expectations

Based on the demand for different skills, salaries for technology roles in Australia are constantly moving. With a high demand in many tech roles across the country, we have seen increased income salaries and rates in the market.

Though salary is a big drawcard for the Australian market, companies across Australia offer their employees more benefits than just the money. When looking for a job in the Australian market, it is worth considering the additional benefits such as continuous training opportunities, flexible hours, paid parental leave, and share opportunities.

Check out this guide to see an overview of the salary data for the Sydney tech market.

Making the move

When making the move to Australia, some other things you need to consider are:

• Finance: Setting up your finance and insurance is a vital early step to get you settled in Australia. Having an Australian bank account will make your life easier when you get to Australia, as paying rent, making everyday purchases, and receiving income from your job will be an easier transaction.
  
  
• Property: The average rent in Sydney is $580 AUD per week, and $455 AUD in Melbourne. These prices may raise or lower depending on the suburbs you desire to live in. Here are some handy links to get your property search started: domain.com.au and realestate.com.au.
  
  
• Transport: Living in the main cities of Australia, you will need a way to get around. Public transport is a convenient option for many people travelling within the city. But if driving yourself is more your style, buying or renting a car is something you need to consider, keeping in mind the viability of your driver’s license.

Are you looking to transition? Ready to make the move? Get in touch today to find out more about how Digital Downunder can help you on this journey: nick.saunders@digitaldownunder.net.au