International students choose Australia for their studies to gain a quality education and practical experience through work placements. These placements help build job-ready skills, develop an understanding of workplace culture, and allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations. But how can international students maximise these experiences and transform them into a pathway for their eventual career or future opportunities?
In this blog, we will explore how international student placement works in Australia, understand work rights, and suggest practical tips for undertaking internships. We also highlight how platforms like SkilTrak assist students and the industry in connecting with placement opportunities.
1. International Student Placement in Australia
The vocational and higher education pathways in Australia include Work-Based Training (WBT) as part of the professional course of study. Remember, placements are more than course requirements; they are also a way into the Australian workforce.
1.1 Importance of Placements
1. To apply theoretical concepts and knowledge to practical experience
2. To develop professional skills that are applicable in the workforce (i.e., communication, teamwork, time management, etc.).
3. To establish professional and work networks
4. To gain a first-hand insight into Aussie work culture.
1.2 How the Placement System Works
- Typically, students are placed through Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), TAFEs, or universities.
- Institutions can assist students with placements, or students can use sites such as SkilTrak to find suitable host employers.
- Students complete a necessary number of hours to meet course requirements.
1.3 SkilTrak’s Role
SkilTrak connects students, educational providers, and industries. SkilTrak helps to certify that international student placement in Australia is structured, documented, and follows training regulations. Students use the SkilTrak app to:
- Search and apply for host employers
- Document hours and tasks
- Submit reports
- Receive mentoring and assistance
2: Understanding Your Work Rights in Australia
2.1 Visa Important Conditions and Work Hours
Student visa holders can work 48 hours in a fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during official breaks. Make certain placement complies with your visa conditions unless it was a mandatory unpaid internship as part of your course.
2.2 Unpaid Internship vs Paid Internship
- If the placement is formally recognised by your education provider, then it can be unpaid.
- Paid interns must follow Australia's Fair Work Regulations.
2.3 Discrimination and Safety
International students have a right to safe and respectful work environments. You can report this to the Fair Work Ombudsman or talk with your education provider for help.
3: Best Internship Tips for International Students
3.1 Be Active
Do not wait for placements to come to you. Use networks, go to career fairs, and use networks as well as try social media platforms like SkilTrak. Edit your profile to meet Australian student placement expectations.
3.2 Learn as You Go
- Treat your internship like a real job.
- Be on time, ask questions, and make yourself known.
- Show your ability to be flexible and your interest to learn.
3.3 Create Good Relationships
- Network with your supervisor, mentor, and colleagues.
- Follow them on LinkedIn, but keep your relationships professional.
3.4 Think About Your Learning Outcomes
- Before going into your placement, have clear goals for how you would like to learn.
- Utilise the SkilTrak app to monitor what you have achieved and receive feedback from your mentor.
3.5 Learn the Work Culture
- Australians communicate in a relaxed but direct manner.
- The levels of hierarchy in the workplace can also be relaxed; feel free to mention your ideas.
4: How will SkilTrak facilitate International Students?
4.1 Tailored Placement Matching
SkilTrak will deliberate on your course, location, and preferences to allocate host employers accordingly.
4.2 User-friendly application functions
• Log hours
• Track progress
• Submit reports and photos
• Communicate with your mentors
4.3 Compliance and documentation
• Retention of records is compliant with the RTO and visa processes.
• SkilTrak solution drivers reduce the pitfalls many students face with placement.
4.4 Employability tools
• Resume-building workshops
• Interview preparation sessions
• Weekly performance reviews and mentoring
5: Managing Placement Challenges
5.1 Language
• Join some English support or conversation classes.
• Practice vocabulary from the workplace environment.
5.2 Culture
• Attend allocable orientation.
• Learn about Australian workplace norms, expectations, and customs.
5.3 Transport and location
SkilTrak will ensure that we recommend employers near you or who offer remote placements.
5.4 Working cyclically, living and studying.
Keep planners, be organised, and ask for assistance before it all gets overwhelming!
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Australian Placement
Work placements are one of the most beneficial opportunities available during Australian education. With the right attitude, preparation, and support network, such as SkilTrak, you can make your work placement the launching pad for your future career.
Don't just do a placement, get involved, learn from it, and learn through it.
For more information or to get started with your next placement, visit www.skiltrak.com.au or download the SkilTrak app today.
