Australia’s vibrant economy, stunning landscapes, and high quality of life make it a top destination for foreigners looking to work and thrive. If you’re dreaming of a job that pays well—up to $80,000 AUD annually—and offers a pathway to settle in this beautiful country, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best jobs in Australia for foreigners that hit that sweet salary spot, are accessible with the right skills, and come with opportunities for growth. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in tips on visas, job hunting, and settling in—all in an easy-to-read style to help you kickstart your Aussie adventure.
Why Work in Australia as a Foreigner?
Before diving into the jobs, let’s talk about why Australia is such a magnet for international workers:
- Strong Economy: Australia boasts a stable economy with low unemployment (around 3.5% in recent years) and competitive wages.
- High Quality of Life: Think sunny beaches, vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne, and a multicultural society that welcomes diversity.
- Visa Pathways: Many jobs offer visa sponsorship, like the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa or pathways to permanent residency.
- Work-Life Balance: Australians value downtime, with generous leave policies and a culture that encourages enjoying life outside work.
Now, let’s explore the best jobs that pay up to $80,000, are in demand, and suit foreigners with various skill sets.
Top Jobs in Australia for Foreigners Earning Up to $80,000
These roles are selected based on demand, accessibility for foreigners, salary ranges (up to $80,000 AUD), and visa sponsorship potential. We’ve included entry-level to mid-level positions across industries, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
1. Registered Nurse (Aged Care and General Nursing)
Average Salary: $65,000–$80,000
Why It’s Great: Australia’s aging population and growing healthcare sector mean nurses are always in demand. Aged care facilities and hospitals actively recruit foreigners, often with visa sponsorship.
What You’ll Do: Provide patient care, administer medications, assist with daily activities, and collaborate with healthcare teams.
Skills Needed:
- A nursing degree or diploma recognized by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
- English proficiency (IELTS or equivalent, typically a score of 7 in each band).
- Compassion, teamwork, and adaptability.
How to Get Started: - Get your qualifications assessed by AHPRA.
- Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
- Look for jobs on SEEK or Indeed, especially in regional areas where demand is high.
Visa Tip: Nursing is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making it eligible for TSS visas and permanent residency pathways.
Fun Fact: Regional jobs (e.g., in Queensland or Tasmania) often come with perks like relocation bonuses!
2. Plumber
Average Salary: $60,000–$80,000
Why It’s Great: Australia’s construction boom and infrastructure projects keep plumbers in high demand. It’s a trade role that’s accessible to foreigners with the right credentials.
What You’ll Do: Install and repair water, gas, and drainage systems in homes, businesses, or construction sites.
Skills Needed:
- A plumbing qualification (e.g., Certificate III in Plumbing).
- Experience in the trade (1–2 years is ideal).
- Physical fitness and problem-solving skills.
How to Get Started: - Have your qualifications assessed by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) via the Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP).
- Complete a Job Ready Program if needed for visa purposes.
- Search for roles on SEEK or through trade unions like the Plumbing Trades Employees Union.
Visa Tip: Plumbing is on the MLTSSL, offering sponsorship through the TSS visa and potential employer-nominated schemes.
Pro Tip: Rural areas like Western Australia often have higher demand and better pay.
3. Early Childhood Educator
Average Salary: $55,000–$75,000
Why It’s Great: With Australia’s focus on quality childcare, early childhood educators are sought after, especially in urban centers. It’s rewarding and offers flexible hours.
What You’ll Do: Teach and care for children aged 0–5, plan educational activities, and ensure their safety and development.
Skills Needed:
- A Diploma or Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
- A Working with Children Check.
- Patience, creativity, and a love for kids.
How to Get Started: - Study a recognized course in Australia (many TAFEs offer these) or have overseas qualifications assessed.
- Register with job boards like Care Careers or ChildcareJobs.com.au.
- Network with childcare centers for sponsorship opportunities.
Visa Tip: This role is on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), eligible for TSS visas, though permanent residency is trickier.
Fun Fact: You might work in vibrant settings like Montessori schools or community centers!
4. Software Developer (Entry-Level)
Average Salary: $70,000–$80,000
Why It’s Great: Australia’s tech sector is booming, and entry-level developers can earn great salaries while working in dynamic cities like Sydney or Brisbane.
What You’ll Do: Code, test, and maintain software or apps, often for startups or established firms.
Skills Needed:
- A degree in computer science, IT, or equivalent (bootcamps can work, too).
- Knowledge of languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript.
- Problem-solving and teamwork skills.
How to Get Started: - Build a portfolio with projects on GitHub.
- Apply through tech job boards like LinkedIn or Startup Jobs Australia.
- Consider internships to gain local experience.
Visa Tip: Software developers are on the MLTSSL, with strong sponsorship prospects.
Pro Tip: Melbourne’s tech hub is growing fast—check out companies there for opportunities.
5. Civil Engineering Technician
Average Salary: $65,000–$80,000
Why It’s Great: Infrastructure projects across Australia (think roads, bridges, and railways) need skilled technicians, and foreigners with technical expertise are welcome.
What You’ll Do: Assist engineers with design, testing, and project management for construction projects.
Skills Needed:
- A diploma or associate degree in civil engineering.
- Familiarity with CAD software or surveying tools.
- Attention to detail and teamwork.
How to Get Started: - Get your qualifications assessed by Engineers Australia.
- Look for roles on SEEK or through firms like Aurecon or GHD.
- Gain practical experience through internships or apprenticeships.
Visa Tip: This role is on the STSOL, with TSS visa eligibility.
Fun Fact: You could work on iconic projects like Sydney’s Metro expansion!
6. Hospitality Manager (Cafes, Restaurants, or Hotels)
Average Salary: $60,000–$80,000
Why It’s Great: Australia’s tourism and hospitality sector is thriving, and experienced managers are needed to run bustling venues.
What You’ll Do: Oversee staff, manage budgets, ensure customer satisfaction, and maintain operations.
Skills Needed:
- Experience in hospitality (2–3 years, ideally in a supervisory role).
- A diploma in hospitality management is a plus.
- Leadership and customer service skills.
How to Get Started: - Start with roles like waiter or supervisor to gain local experience.
- Network with venue owners or apply via Hospitality Jobs Australia.
- Highlight international experience—it’s valued!
Visa Tip: Some roles qualify for TSS visas, especially in regional areas under the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA).
Pro Tip: Cities like Perth and Adelaide have growing hospitality scenes with less competition.
7. Aged and Disabled Care Worker
Average Salary: $55,000–$75,000
Why It’s Great: This compassionate role is in high demand due to Australia’s aging population, with many employers offering sponsorship.
What You’ll Do: Support elderly or disabled clients with daily tasks, personal care, and emotional support.
Skills Needed:
- A Certificate III in Individual Support or Aged Care.
- Empathy, patience, and physical stamina.
- A Working with Vulnerable People Check.
How to Get Started: - Study a short course in Australia (6–12 months) or have overseas quals assessed.
- Apply through agencies like Allity or Bupa Aged Care.
- Look for regional roles for better sponsorship odds.
Visa Tip: On the STSOL, with TSS visa potential and high demand in rural areas.
Fun Fact: You’ll make a real difference in people’s lives every day!
Tips for Landing These Jobs as a Foreigner
Getting hired in Australia requires strategy, especially when you’re navigating visas and a new job market. Here’s how to boost your chances:
Understand Visa Options:
- TSS Visa (Subclass 482): For skilled workers, with short-term (STSOL) or medium/long-term (MLTSSL) streams.
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462): For those aged 18–35, great for gaining experience in hospitality or childcare.
- Employer Sponsorship: Many employers in healthcare, trades, and tech sponsor foreigners—highlight your willingness to relocate.
- Check the Australian Government’s SkillSelect for eligibility.
Tailor Your Resume:
- Use the Australian format: concise (2–3 pages), with clear skills and achievements.
- Include local referees if possible or international ones with contact details.
- Emphasize qualifications recognized in Australia.
Network Like a Pro:
- Join industry groups on LinkedIn or attend job fairs (many are virtual now).
- Connect with recruitment agencies like Randstad or Michael Page—they specialize in placing foreigners.
- Visit expat communities online (e.g., Expat Forum Australia) for insider tips.
Learn the Local Lingo:
- While English is key, Aussie workplaces love a friendly, laid-back vibe. Practice phrases like “no worries” or “mate” to blend in.
- Brush up on industry jargon for your field.
Consider Regional Areas:
- Places like Cairns, Alice Springs, or Launceston often have less competition and higher demand.
- Regional jobs may offer bonuses or faster visa processing under DAMA agreements.
Upskill if Needed:
- Short courses (e.g., Certificate III in Aged Care) can be done in Australia and boost employability.
- TAFE institutions or online platforms like Open Colleges are affordable options.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Moving to a new country isn’t all sunshine and beaches—here are common hurdles and how to tackle them:
- Qualification Recognition: Some credentials need assessment (e.g., by AHPRA or TRA). Start this process early to avoid delays.
- Cost of Living: Cities like Sydney can be pricey. Opt for shared housing or regional areas to save.
- Job Competition: Urban roles are competitive. Stand out with a strong cover letter and local experience (even volunteer work helps).
- Visa Restrictions: Some visas limit work hours or job types. Consult a migration agent for clarity (try VisaEnvoy or True Blue Migration).
Living the Aussie Dream: What to Expect
Once you land a job, here’s what life might look like earning up to $80,000:
- Salary Breakdown: After tax, expect $50,000–$65,000 take-home annually. This covers rent ($300–$500/week in shared urban housing), groceries ($80–$120/week), and fun like weekend trips.
- Lifestyle: Enjoy barbecues, surfing, or hiking in national parks. Cities have vibrant food scenes, from Vietnamese phở to Aussie meat pies.
- Career Growth: Many roles (e.g., nursing, tech) offer clear paths to higher salaries ($100,000+) with experience or further study.
- Community: Australia’s multicultural vibe means you’ll find expat groups, cultural festivals, and a warm welcome.
Final Thoughts: Your Aussie Adventure Awaits!
Whether you’re drawn to caring for others as a nurse or aged care worker, building infrastructure as a plumber or technician, coding in a tech hub, nurturing kids as an educator, or running a bustling café, Australia has a job for you. With salaries up to $80,000, these roles offer financial stability, visa opportunities, and a chance to live in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.
Next Steps:
- Research your chosen field’s visa eligibility on the Australian Government’s Home Affairs website.
- Polish your resume and start applying on SEEK, Indeed, or LinkedIn.
- Connect with a migration agent for personalized advice.
- Dream big—your Aussie career is closer than you think!
Got questions about a specific job or visa? Drop them below, and let’s chat about your journey Down Under! 🌏