How to Get an Internship in Australia (for International Students)

If you're an international student looking to gain professional experience in Australia, securing an internship can be an excellent opportunity. With its diverse industries and global reach, Australia offers a wealth of possibilities for individuals seeking to further their career goals.

Ready for a career boost? Then it’s time to learn how to get an internship in Australia.

Internships are a great way to gain valuable skills, make connections, and enhance your resume. However, securing an internship can be a competitive and challenging process. In this comprehensive guide, we'll outline the necessary steps to guide you on how to get an internship in Australia by providing information on some of the best programs available—and answering some of the most common questions you may have along the way.

Are internships paid in Australia?

In most cases, internships in Australia are paid. However, the amount you’ll get paid can vary widely depending on the industry and the type of work you'll be doing. Some internships may offer a stipend or reimbursement for expenses, while others may offer a more substantial salary.

It's important to research the specific internship program or company you're interested in to understand the compensation they offer. Paid internships are typically offered by larger companies, while unpaid internships are usually offered by smaller companies or nonprofits. You’ll still get valuable experience from an unpaid internship, but without financial compensation.

Do I need a visa to intern in Australia?

If you’re wondering how to get an internship in Australia for international students, a lot boils down to the type of visa you need. While there’s no specific Australian internship visa, Australia has a wide range of visas. The visa you'll need to intern in Australia will depend on several factors, including the length of your stay, the kind of work you'll be doing, and whether you're a student or not.

Research the different visa options to know what you need before applying.

Some of the most common types of visas include:

• Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462): If you are between the ages of 18 and 30 (or 35 for certain countries), you may be eligible for a working holiday visa. This visa allows you to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months, and you may be able to undertake an internship during your stay.
• Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408): This visa allows you to come to Australia to undertake an internship or other specified work experience. You will be able to stay in Australia for the duration of the internship, or up to four years. To be eligible, you must have a formal letter of support from the organization offering you the internship, so this would be closest to an official Australian internship visa available.
• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): A temporary visa is for international students who have recently graduated with skills and qualifications that are relevant to specific occupations Australia needs. It lets you live, study, and work in Australia temporarily.
• Student Visa (Subclass 500): If you're a full-time student at a university in Australia, you may be able to work part-time during the academic year and full-time during school breaks.

7 other requirements for interning in Australia

Before you begin your search for an internship in Australia, it's essential to understand the necessary requirements to make the process as smooth as possible. Some of the key requirements include:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Student status: In some cases, you must be enrolled in a course of study or have graduated within the last 24 months. This requirement depends on the visa you’re applying for and the personal preference of the company where you’ll intern.
• Valid passport: You will need a valid passport to enter and work in Australia. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Health insurance: You will need to purchase health insurance before entering Australia, as the country has a high-quality but expensive healthcare system.
• English proficiency: Most internships in Australia require a high level of English proficiency. You'll be expected to communicate with colleagues and clients effectively.
• A killer internship application! Companies will be more likely to hire you if you have a great application combined with excellent academic results and previous work or volunteering experience.

You’ll also need to know the answer to the question, “what visa do I need for an internship in Australia?” for your specific internship program. As mentioned above, there are many different visa options in Australia, so making sure you understand the right one for you is key.

How to get an internship in Australia

Here’s your path to getting an internship in Australia.

Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to landing an internship in Australia:

Step 1: Decide when and where to go

The first step in getting an internship in Australia is to decide when and where you want to go. Take into consideration the Australian weather, your academic schedule, and your budget. Australia is a large country, so research the different cities and regions to determine which one best suits your needs and interests.

Step 2: Research companies and industries

The next step in getting an internship in Australia is to research companies and industries that interest you. Australia has a diverse range of industries, including finance, technology, agriculture, and arts, just to name a few.

Check with specific companies or internship programs for opportunities in your desired field, and use online resources like job boards and company websites to identify potential employers. You can also reach out to your university or college's career center for guidance and advice.

READ: 8 Opportunities to Intern Abroad in Australia Affordably

Step 3: Check visa requirements

Before applying for internships, make sure you check the visa requirements for international students. You'll need to ensure that you have the right visa to undertake an internship in Australia. The most common visas for internships in Australia are the Student Visa and the Temporary Activity Visa, but depending on the type of work you want to do, there might be others more suited to your needs.

Step 4: Apply for a visa if necessary

If you do require a visa to enter Australia, make sure you apply for one well in advance. Check the Australian government's website for visa requirements and application procedures.

Step 5: Tailor your resume and cover letter

Once you've identified companies and industries that interest you, it's time to tailor your resume and cover letter to the internship you're applying for. Highlight your skills, experience, and education to align with the internship’s requirements.

Make sure to showcase your enthusiasm and passion for the industry and the company. One big mistake you can make is simply creating a template for a cover letter and mass-emailing a bunch of companies! Pro-tip: Consider preparing a video of yourself instead of writing a cover letter.

Step 6: Apply for internships

Doing your research will help you make sure you check all the boxes while putting together your internship application.

When applying for internships, make sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Submit your application before the deadline and ensure that you include all required documents. Be prepared for potential phone or in-person interviews and make sure to research the company beforehand.

Step 7: Secure the internship!

Congratulations, you've been offered an internship! The final step is to secure the internship by signing a contract or agreement with the company. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully and seek legal advice if necessary. Remember to thank the company for the opportunity and prepare yourself for an exciting and rewarding internship experience in Australia.

Step 8: Prepare yourself financially

Are internships paid in Australia? As previously mentioned, not all of them are—and even the internships that are paid may only offer a small stipend. Do take into account how much you’ll need for day-to-day living expenses in Australia, and have a backup plan in case the internship you’ve landed can't financially support your time there!

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 internship programs abroad—it’s free!

3 internships in Australia to consider

1. Beyond Academy: Internships in Sydney

• Highlights: Looking for a program that provides a balance of professional development and adventure in the heart of Sydney? Beyond Academy offers immersive internships in Sydney, where with personalized guidance, networking opportunities, and 24/7 support, you’ll have all the tools to make the most of your experience abroad.
• Participants gain practical experience across various industries while exploring one of Australia’s most vibrant cities. Whether you're interested in business, marketing, or technology, this program is designed to empower you with the skills and confidence you need to excel during your internship.
• Location: Sydney
• Read Beyond Academy reviews

2. GoEco: Australia - Wild Animal Sanctuary

• Highlights: Are you passionate about animal welfare and conservation? The Wild Animal Sanctuary program by GoEco is the perfect opportunity to volunteer your time and skills to protect and care for rescued animals in Australia.
• Participants will work with a variety of animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies, while also engaging in sustainable and eco-friendly practices. With accommodation and meals included, this program offers a unique and rewarding experience for anyone seeking to make a positive impact on the lives of animals in Australia.
• Location: Sydney
• Read GoEco reviews

3. Asia Internship Program: Internship in Australia

• Highlights: If you’re looking for internships in more diverse places, try out the Australian placements managed by the Asia Internship Program. Their partnerships with several companies including multinational corporations, rapidly growing startups, and charitable NGOs offer a wide range of placement opportunities.
• Participants will also have the chance to explore Australian culture and build relationships with other young professionals from around the world, which means you can make great connections for future career opportunities!
• Location: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
• Read Asia Internship Program reviews

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You’re on your way to intern in Australia!

From big cities to the great outdoors, the perfect internship setting is waiting for you.

Securing an internship can be a competitive process, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. Start early, tailor your application materials, prepare for the interview, network, and be flexible. With persistence, passion, and hard work, you can secure your dream internship and take the first step toward a successful career. Good luck in your search for an amazing internship in Australia!