How to build local experience in Australia without a full time job is one of those challenges that many international students face. Employers want local experience, but you need experience to get experience. This is the classic catch 22. I’ve faced this challenge, and I’ve watched friends face it. Some found ways to build experience. Others struggled. The difference was understanding that there are many ways to build experience beyond full time jobs.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve built local experience through various means, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Some approaches worked well. Others didn’t. The difference was being creative and persistent.
So here’s everything I know about building local experience in Australia without a full time job, based on what actually works.
Why Local Experience Matters
Let me start with this, because understanding why helps you see the value.
Employers value local experience. It shows you understand Australian workplace culture, can work in Australian teams, and are familiar with local practices.
It demonstrates commitment. Having local experience shows you’re serious about working in Australia, not just studying here.
It builds your network. Local experience helps you meet people in your field, which can lead to opportunities.
But here’s what I’ve learned: local experience matters, but it doesn’t have to be full time. Part time work, internships, projects, and volunteering can all count as local experience.
Part Time Professional Work: The Direct Route
This is the most direct way, and here’s how to find it.
Part time professional jobs exist. Some companies hire students for part time professional work. These are less common but exist.
Look for student specific roles. Some companies have roles specifically for students. Check university job boards and company websites.
Be flexible. Part time professional work might not be in your ideal role, but it’s still professional experience.
But here’s what I’ve learned: part time professional work is valuable, but it’s not always easy to find. Don’t limit yourself to this. Also consider other ways to build experience.
I’ve written about working in your own field while studying if you want more detail.
Internships: Structured Learning
This is another option, and here’s what it offers.
Internships provide structured learning. Companies invest in teaching you, which can be valuable.
They’re often available during breaks. Many companies offer summer internships or semester break internships.
They can lead to jobs. Some companies hire interns after internships, which can solve the experience problem.
But here’s what I’ve learned: internships are valuable, but they’re often unpaid or low paid. Consider whether you can afford this. If you can, internships can be excellent experience.
I’ve written about internships vs part time professional jobs if you want more detail.
Projects and Freelancing: Building Your Own Experience
This is creative, and here’s how it works.
Build projects that solve local problems. This shows you understand local needs and can work independently.
Freelance for local clients. Even small projects count as local experience. They show you can work with Australian clients.
Show your work. Use portfolios, GitHub, or other platforms to show your work. This demonstrates your skills and experience.
But here’s what I’ve learned: projects and freelancing count as experience. Don’t dismiss them. They show initiative, skills, and ability to work independently.
Volunteering: Giving Back and Building Experience
This is often overlooked, but it can help.
Volunteering provides experience. Even unpaid work counts as experience. It shows you can work in teams and contribute.
It builds your network. Volunteering helps you meet people, which can lead to opportunities.
It demonstrates values. Volunteering shows you care about community, which employers value.
But here’s what I’ve learned: volunteering is valuable, but choose wisely. Volunteer in areas relevant to your career goals, not just anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do projects count as local experience?
Yes. Projects that solve local problems or work with local clients count as local experience. Show them on your resume and in interviews.
Can I build experience through freelancing?
Yes. Freelancing for local clients counts as local experience. Even small projects demonstrate skills and ability to work with Australian clients.
Should I do unpaid internships?
It depends on your situation. If you can afford unpaid work and the internship is valuable, yes. If you need money, look for paid options.
How do I show local experience on my resume?
List it like any other experience. Include part time work, internships, projects, and volunteering. Show what you did and what you achieved.
Can volunteering count as professional experience?
Yes, if it’s relevant. Volunteering in areas related to your career goals counts as experience. Show what you did and what you achieved.
How long does it take to build local experience?
It varies. Some students build experience quickly through part time work or internships. Others take longer through projects and volunteering. Start early and be persistent.
Final Thoughts
Building local experience in Australia without a full time job is possible, but it requires creativity and persistence. Part time work, internships, projects, freelancing, and volunteering can all count as local experience. Don’t limit yourself to one method. Use multiple approaches.
Don’t assume you need a full time job. There are many ways to build experience. Be creative, be persistent, and use multiple approaches. You’ll build experience over time.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Be creative. There are many ways to build experience beyond full time jobs. Use part time work, internships, projects, freelancing, and volunteering. All of them count, and all of them help.
If you’re still building experience, check out my guides on getting your first professional IT job and using LinkedIn effectively. And when you’re building experience, be creative and persistent. There are many ways to build experience. Use multiple approaches, and you’ll build experience over time.
