Why apply for an Australian Work Permit?

• 800,000+ job vacancies across Australia
• Average annual salary: AUD 85,000 – 95,000
• Relaxed immigration policies for skilled workers
• Pathway to Australian Permanent Residency
• Access to healthcare & social benefits

Australian Work Permit

A work permit in Australia is an official authorization that allows foreign nationals, including residents of the UK, to work legally in the country. Issued by the Australian government, this permit is typically linked to a relevant visa type, based on the applicant’s occupation and employment terms. Australia offers both temporary and permanent work permit pathways, and the type you choose depends on your qualifications, job offer, and long-term plans. For UK professionals looking to explore opportunities in Australia, a valid work permit is the first step toward building a career in one of the world’s most stable and dynamic job markets.

 

Australia Work Visa for UK Residents

Australia remains a popular destination for skilled UK professionals seeking global career opportunities. With over 800,000 job openings projected across key industries in 2025, the Australian job market is actively welcoming international talent, including UK citizens. UK applicants can explore multiple visa options such as the Skills in Demand Visa (replacing the former TSS), which offers a pathway to both temporary work and permanent residency. The similarities in work culture and language also make the transition smoother for UK residents seeking long-term employment in Australia.

*Want to work in Australia? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the process.

 

Work in Australia for a high standard of living

Australia is known for more than just its beautiful landscapes, it also promises a high quality of life for those who choose to live and work there. From competitive salaries and strong workplace protections to public healthcare and excellent work-life balance, it is a place where professionals can thrive. For UK residents, working in Australia offers the chance to build a fulfilling career while enjoying the laid-back lifestyle and diverse culture the country is famous for.

 

Types of Australian work visa

Australia offers a variety of work visa options to support its growing economy and meet labour market needs. Whether you are looking to work temporarily or settle permanently, there are specific visa pathways tailored for skilled professionals, graduates, and sponsored workers. Choosing the right visa depends on your occupation, qualifications, and long-term plans.

Temporary Australian Work Visas

Visa Type	Description
Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)	Enables Australian employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers for up to 4 years in occupations facing labour shortages. This visa replaced the former Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa.
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)	Designed for young people (aged 18–30 or 35 depending on nationality) to holiday and work in Australia for up to 12 months.
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)	Allows recent graduates from Australian institutions to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily, depending on their qualification.
Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408)	For short-term work in cultural, social, or research-based projects and events.

 

Permanent Australian Work Visas

Visa Type	Description
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)	A points-tested visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored. It grants permanent residency and allows applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)	For skilled professionals nominated by an Australian state or territory. This is a permanent visa offering a pathway to citizenship.
Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186)	Permits skilled workers to be sponsored by an Australian employer for permanent residence. It includes Direct Entry and Temporary Residence Transition streams.
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 191)	For skilled migrants who have lived and worked in designated regional areas of Australia for at least three years. Grants permanent residency.

 

Australia's New Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)

Australia’s Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) outlines key roles that are in high demand across the country. This list is designed to help skilled professionals from overseas find opportunities that match Australia’s workforce needs. If your occupation appears on the CSOL, you may be eligible to apply for skilled migration pathways, making it an important factor for anyone planning to live and work in Australia.

Read more…

Australia Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)

 

Benefits of Working in Australia

Some of the benefits of working in Australia include:

• Gain the legal right to work in Australia in your nominated occupation for an approved employer or sector.
• Earn competitive salaries, with the national average ranging between AUD 85,000 to 95,000 per year.
• Most work visas offer a pathway to Australian Permanent Residency, helping you settle long-term.
• You and your eligible family members may access public healthcare services through Medicare.
• Spouses and dependents can often accompany you and may have the right to work or study.
• You are protected under Australia’s strong labour laws, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions.
• Some visas offer additional benefits if you choose to live and work in designated regional areas.
• Experience a high quality of life, supported by a multicultural and inclusive workplace environment.

Eligibility to Work in Australia

To be eligible for an Australian work visa, applicants must typically meet criteria related to age, skills, qualifications, and health.

The table below has details of the eligibility criteria for an Australian work visa:

Category	Maximum Points
Age (25-32 years)	30 points
English proficiency (8 bands)	20 points
Work Experience outside Australia (8-10 years)	15 points
Work Experience in Australia (8-10 years)	20 points
Education (outside Australia) – Doctorate degree	20 points
Niche skills such as Doctorate or master’s degree by research in Australia	10 points
Study in a regional area	5 points
Accredited in community language	5 points
Professional year in a skilled program in Australia	5 points
State sponsorship (190 visa)	5 points
Skilled spouse or de facto partner (Age, Skills & English language requirements to be met)	10 points
Spouse or de facto partner with ‘competent English’ (No need to meet Skills requirement or age factor)	5 points
Applicants without a spouse or de facto partner or where a spouse is an Australia citizen or PR holder	10 points
Relative or regional sponsorship (491 visa)	15 points

 

Requirements for Australian work visa

You must fulfil the below list of requirements for an Australian work visa:

• Valid Visa: Must hold a valid Australian work visa (e.g. Skills in Demand visa, Temporary Skill Shortage visa, Working Holiday visa, etc.).
• Age Limit: Generally between 18–45 years, depending on the visa subclass.
• English Language Proficiency: Must demonstrate adequate English skills through tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
• Relevant Work Experience: Typically requires at least 2 years of relevant skilled work experience.
• Skills Assessment: Must undergo a skills assessment by a recognized assessing authority for nominated occupation.
• Health and Character Clearance: Must meet health standards and submit police clearance certificates.
• Labour Market Test (if required): Some visas require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (e.g., Skills in Demand visa).
• Job Offer (for employer-sponsored visas): A formal job offer from an Australian employer is mandatory for some work visas.
• Educational Qualifications: Must meet the minimum education requirement relevant to the occupation.

Australia Skills Assessment

If you are planning to apply for a skilled visa to Australia, such as the Subclass 189, 190, or 491, a Skills Assessment is one of the most important steps in your application. This process helps Australian authorities verify that your qualifications and work experience meet the required standards for your nominated occupation. Each profession is assessed by a designated authority—like ACS for IT roles or Engineers Australia for engineering occupations. A positive skills assessment confirms that your expertise aligns with Australian workplace expectations and makes you eligible to move forward with your visa process. Most assessments remain valid for up to three years, giving you ample time to plan your migration confidently.

 

How to get a job in Australia from the UK?

You can follow the below steps to apply for a job in Australia from the UK:

Step 1: Check if your job is on the Skilled Occupation List

Confirm that your profession is eligible for skilled migration or employer-sponsored visas.

Step 2: Get your skills assessed

Apply for a formal skills assessment through the relevant Australian authority.

Step 3: Take an English language test

Meet the required IELTS or PTE scores to qualify for a visa.

Step 4: Search and apply for jobs in Australia

Use portals like SEEK or CareerOne and tailor your CV to local standards.

Step 5: Secure a job offer or sponsorship

If applying for a sponsored visa, get a valid offer from an Australian employer.

Step 6: Apply for a suitable work visa

Choose from options like the Skills in Demand visa or Skilled Independent visa.

Step 7: Move to Australia and start working

Once approved, relocate and begin your new career in Australia.

 

Australia Work visa Processing Time

Visa Type	Median Processing Time
Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)	44 days
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)	10 months
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)	10 months
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)	10 months
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Subclass 491	10 months
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)	Less than 1 day
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)	52 days

 

Australia Work visa fees

Visa Type	Base Application Fee (AUD)	Additional Applicant Over 18 (AUD)	Additional Applicant Under 18 (AUD)
Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)	$1,495 – $3,115	$1,495 – $3,115	$375 – $780
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)	$4,770	$2,385	$1,190
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)	$4,765	$2,385	$1,190
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)	$4,765	$2,385	$1,190
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)	$4,765	$2,385	$1,190
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)	$1,920	$960	$485
Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (Subclass 400)	$415	$415	$80
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)	$650	N/A	N/A

 

Jobs in Australia for UK Residents

Australia offers excellent job opportunities for UK residents, thanks to its strong economy, high demand for skilled professionals, and transparent visa pathways. With over 800,000 job vacancies across key sectors like healthcare, IT, and engineering, UK citizens with in-demand skills and qualifications are well-positioned to secure employment and long-term career growth in Australia.

Occupation	Annual Salary in (AUD)
IT	$99,642 – $ 115, 000
Marketing & Sales	$84,072 – $103,202
Engineering	$92,517 – $110,008
Hospitality	$60,000 – $75,000
Healthcare	$101,569- $169279
Accounting & Finance	$77,842 – $92,347
Human Resources	$80,000 – $99,519
Construction	$72,604 – $99,552
Professional and Scientific Services	$90,569 – $108,544

 

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis, the leading overseas immigration consultancy in the UK, provides unbiased immigration services for every client based on their interests and requirements. The impeccable services of Y-Axis include:

• Free eligibility check through Australia Immigration Points Calculator
• Expert guidance/counseling for Australian Immigration
• Coaching services: Expert CELPIP coaching, IELTS proficiency Coaching
• Free career counseling; book your slot today
• Complete guidance for Australia PR visa
• Job search services to find related jobs in Australia