Getting your first professional IT job in Australia as an international student is one of those goals that seems achievable until you actually start applying. I studied IT, and I knew I wanted to work in the field. But getting that first professional job was harder than I expected. The information online was generic and didn’t tell me what actually works for international students.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve worked in IT, and I’ve watched friends get their first professional IT jobs. Some got jobs quickly. Others took longer. The difference was understanding what employers actually want and how to demonstrate it.
So here’s everything I know about getting your first professional IT job in Australia as an international student, based on what actually works.
The Reality Check First
Let me start with this, because I wish someone had told me: getting your first professional IT job takes time and persistence.
IT jobs are competitive. Many students want them, and employers can be picky. Don’t expect to get the first job you apply for.
Experience matters. Employers want people with experience, but you need experience to get experience. This is the classic catch 22.
But here’s what I’ve learned: it’s possible. Many international students get professional IT jobs. The key is understanding what employers want and demonstrating it effectively.
What Employers Actually Look For
This is important, because understanding what they want helps you target your applications.
Employers want: technical skills relevant to the role, problem solving ability, ability to work in teams, and good communication skills.
They also value: local experience, even if it’s not IT experience, projects that demonstrate skills, and a good attitude.
But here’s what I’ve learned: technical skills are important, but they’re not everything. Employers also care about soft skills, attitude, and cultural fit. Don’t focus only on technical skills.
I’ve written about common requirements for IT jobs in Australia if you want more detail.
Building Your Portfolio: Projects That Matter
This is crucial, because projects demonstrate your skills.
Build projects that solve real problems. Don’t just follow tutorials. Build something that solves a problem or demonstrates your skills.
Show your code. Use GitHub or similar platforms to show your code. Employers want to see how you code, not just what you’ve built.
Document your projects. Write about what you built, why you built it, and what you learned. This shows your thinking process.
But here’s what I’ve learned: quality matters more than quantity. A few good projects are better than many mediocre ones. Focus on building projects that demonstrate real skills.
Getting Local Experience: The Challenge
This is the catch 22, and here’s how to handle it.
Internships can help. Some companies offer internships for students. These can lead to jobs or at least give you experience.
Part time IT work is possible. Some companies hire students for part time IT work. These are less common but exist.
Projects can substitute for experience. If you can’t get work experience, build projects that demonstrate the same skills.
But here’s what I’ve learned: local experience helps, but it’s not always necessary. Projects, internships, and part time work can all help. Don’t assume you need full time local experience.
I’ve written about building local experience without a full time job if you want more detail.
Networking: Making Connections
This is important, because many jobs come through connections.
Attend industry events. Meetups, conferences, and networking events are great places to meet people in IT.
Use LinkedIn effectively. Connect with people in your field, engage with their content, and build relationships.
Talk to lecturers and tutors. They often know people in industry and can make introductions.
But here’s what I’ve learned: networking takes time. Don’t expect immediate results. Build relationships over time, and opportunities will come.
I’ve written about networking in Australia for international students and using LinkedIn effectively if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Australian work experience?
It helps, but it’s not always necessary. Projects, internships, and part time work can all help. Don’t assume you need full time Australian experience.
How long does it take to get a professional IT job?
It varies. Some students get jobs within months of graduating. Others take longer. It depends on your skills, experience, and how many applications you make. Don’t give up if it takes time.
Should I focus on technical skills or soft skills?
Both. Technical skills are important, but soft skills matter too. Employers want people who can work in teams and communicate well. Don’t focus only on technical skills.
Can I get an IT job while studying?
Sometimes yes. Some companies hire students for part time IT work. These are less common but exist. Apply and see what’s available.
How do I demonstrate my skills without experience?
Build projects, contribute to open source, write about your work, and show your code. Projects can demonstrate skills even without work experience.
Should I apply for graduate roles or regular roles?
Both. Graduate roles are designed for new graduates, but regular roles are also possible. Apply to both and see what happens.
I’ve written about finding graduate roles in Australia if you want more detail.
Final Thoughts
Getting your first professional IT job in Australia as an international student takes time and persistence. Build projects that demonstrate your skills, network with people in the industry, and apply to many jobs. Don’t expect immediate success, but keep applying and improving.
Don’t give up after a few rejections. IT jobs are competitive, so rejections are normal. Keep building skills, networking, and applying. You’ll find something eventually.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Persistence matters. Getting your first professional IT job takes time. Keep building skills, networking, and applying. Most students who keep trying eventually find something.
If you’re still looking for your first IT job, check out my guides on common requirements for IT jobs and using LinkedIn effectively. And when you’re applying, build projects that demonstrate your skills, network with people in the industry, and be persistent. It takes time, but you’ll find something.