Working as a Youth Worker can be an incredibly rewarding career. You get to positively impact the lives of young people and help them reach their potential. If you are a qualified Youth Worker from another country, and you are considering a move to Australia or have already arrived, you may be wondering whether you can work in a similar role.
The good news is yes, you can, provided your qualifications are assessed as an Australian equivalent and meet the minimum standards required. The process can feel a little overwhelming at first, but plenty of resources are available to help you navigate qualifications recognition in Australia. Here are some key steps and considerations to keep in mind.
Research the requirements for Youth Worker qualifications in Australia
Before you begin the qualifications recognition process, it helps to understand the requirements for Youth Worker roles in Australia. Different states and territories may have their own specific requirements, so it is a good idea to research the rules for the state or territory where you plan to live and work. For Healthcare Australia, this is typically a minimum Cert IV in a relevant field. Take a look at our guides on the qualifications we can currently accept.
- Youth Work Qualifications Queensland
- Youth Work Qualifications South Australia
- Youth Work Qualifications New South Wales
Identify the relevant Australian qualification authority
Once you have researched the requirements, you will need to identify the relevant Australian qualification authority for your profession.
For Youth Work, this is typically the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA), or the relevant state authority listed below.
Northern Territory
Skills Recognition Centre
Phone: (08) 8946 7316
Email: info@skillsrecognitioncentre.edu.au
Queensland
Overseas Qualification Unit, Department of Employment, Small Business and Training
Phone: 1300 369 935
Email: oqu@desbt.qld.gov.au
South Australia
Skilled Arrival Services
Skilled & Business Migration
Department for Innovation and Skills
New South Wales
There is no Overseas Qualification Unit in NSW. However, trade qualifications can be assessed.
If you live in NSW and require an assessment of your trade qualification, contact Training Services NSW on 13 28 11.
Tasmania
Tasmanian Assessment, Standards and Certification
Level 6, 39 Murray Street
Hobart TAS 7000
Phone: (03) 6165 6000
Email: enquiries@tasc.tas.gov.au
Victoria
Overseas Qualifications Unit, Skilled and Business Migration Program
Phone: 1300 492 606
Email: oqu@liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au
Western Australia
Overseas Qualifications Unit, Migration Services, Department of Training and Workforce Development
Phone: (08) 9224 6540
Email: oqu@dtwd.wa.gov.au
Gather evidence of your qualifications and experience
To have your qualifications recognised in Australia, you will need to provide evidence of your qualifications and work experience. This may include your academic transcripts, certificates, and references from previous employers.
Submit your application for qualifications recognition
Once you have gathered all the necessary evidence, you can submit your application for qualifications recognition to the relevant Australian qualification authority. Keep in mind that a fee may apply for this service.
Await the outcome of your application
The qualifications recognition process can take some time, so it helps to be patient while you await the outcome. You may be asked to provide additional information or complete an assessment to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
Consider any additional requirements
Depending on the state or territory where you plan to work, you may also need to meet additional requirements. These can include an NDIS Check, a Working with Children Check, or a police clearance. Requirements vary by state and by employer.
Update your resume and start job hunting
Once your qualifications have been recognised in Australia, you can update your resume and start looking for Youth Work opportunities.
Healthcare Australia provides casual youth and disability support workers to some of the largest community services organisations across Australia, predominantly in NSW, SA and QLD.
So if you are looking for a higher pay rate (casual workers usually earn a higher base rate), more flexibility on hours so you can travel and enjoy your time in Australia, and the chance to stay with one company while working across different states, search our Youth Work Jobs here.
Ready to start your Australian journey?
Transferring your qualifications as a Youth Worker in Australia can feel complex, but with the right guidance and support it is absolutely achievable. By following the steps above and doing your research, you can take the first steps towards an exciting new chapter in your career, and hopefully with Healthcare Australia. We are here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today, and let’s take this next step together.
