How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs in Australia

How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs in Australia

Unskilled jobs are a large percentage of the Australian economy, offering opportunities to a wide range of people, including local and international job seekers. These roles often don’t require formal qualifications and many are in important sectors like Agriculture, Construction and Hospitality contributing significantly to the country’s growth. This article dives into the landscape of unskilled jobs, from understanding the job market to legal requirements, pay, crafting your resume and how you can secure one of these unskilled jobs.

Overview of the Australian unskilled job market in 2024

Australia’s unskilled job market is thriving due to how diverse the economy is, the Agriculture, Hospitality, Retail and Construction industries are large and growing. These industries require a significant number of unskilled workers to keep them operating, especially during peak seasons. For example, the agriculture sector relies heavily on seasonal workers for harvesting seasons, while the tourism and hospitality sectors have an increase in demand during holiday periods and summer months.

The market changes based on the region, certain areas may have more demand than others depending on which industry dominates it. For example, rural areas may have more opportunities in mining or agriculture and urban centres like Sydney and Melbourne will have more opportunities in hospitality, retail and construction.

Demand for unskilled workers jobs in different sectors

Agriculture: This sector is continuously in need of unskilled labour for tasks such as Fruit Picking, Packing, and general Farm Work. The demand changes with the seasons, with peaks during harvest times which can vary by region and crop cycles.

Hospitality and Tourism: Hotels, restaurants, and bars constantly seek unskilled staff for roles like Waitstaff, Kitchen Hands, and Housekeeping. The demand fluctuates with tourist seasons, with a notable increase during summer and holiday periods.

Retail: Retail offers numerous unskilled positions, such as Sales Assistants, Stock Clerks, and Cashiers. Demand increases with the lead-up to busier seasons such as Christmas, Easter, and major sales events.

Construction: There are many unskilled labour positions in construction such as Labourers, Construction Hands, and Cleaners. These opportunities can be project-based and may vary based on the construction sector’s current health at the time.

Manufacturing: While some roles in manufacturing require specific skills or qualifications, there are also entry-level positions available that do not. These might include Assembly Line Work, Packing, and Machine Operation Assistants.

Sector-specific requirements

While many of these jobs are labelled as ‘unskilled,’ certain basic requirements must often be met, which can include:

• Legal work eligibility: Proof of legal right to work in Australia is a must, which typically means holding an appropriate visa for international workers.
• Health and safety certifications: Some sectors, like construction, may require workers to complete health and safety training or hold a White Card – a certification that proves completion of a general construction induction course.
• Language proficiency: While not always formally required, a basic understanding of English can be essential for communication and safety in the workplace.

How much do unskilled workers get paid in Australia?

• Agriculture Workers: Salaries can range from AUD $20 to $25 per hour for roles such as Fruit Pickers and Farm Hands. Seasonal variations and piece rates (pay per quantity picked) can influence earnings you sometimes will be paid an hourly base rate and then paid per weight or punnet of fruit you pick.
• Hospitality Staff: Kitchen Hands and Waitstaff often earn between AUD $20 and $29 per hour, depending on experience and the establishment’s location.
• Retail Assistants: The average hourly rate for retail workers is around AUD $21 to $26. Pay can vary based on factors like the size of the business and whether the employee works on weekends or public holidays.
• Construction Labourers: Unskilled labourers in construction can expect to earn between AUD $25 and $30 per hour, with rates potentially increasing for those with specific certifications (like a White Card).
• Manufacturing Workers: Entry-level positions in manufacturing typically offer wages between AUD $20 and $28 per hour, depending on the specific industry and role.

Want to explore more job salaries? Take a look at Jora’s salary calculator.

Awards and agreements

Australia’s Fair Work system provides a set of awards and agreements that dictate the minimum pay rates and conditions for various sectors. These legal documents outline entitlements such as minimum wages, overtime, penalty rates, and allowances. To check the specific awards or agreements applicable to a role:

• Visit the Fair Work Ombudsman website, where you can search for awards by job category or industry.
• Utilise the Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT) available on the same website to calculate pay rates, including penalties and allowances.

Overtime and penalty rates

Penalty rates are additional pay rates for working unsociable hours, such as late nights, weekends, or public holidays. These rates vary significantly across different awards and agreements but are designed to fairly compensate workers for inconvenient work hours.

• Refer to the relevant award or enterprise agreement, which outlines how overtime and penalty rates are calculated.
• Consult the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website for guidance and tools to help understand specific entitlements.             

Creating a competitive resume

When it comes to unskilled jobs, you may not have specific experience related to the role, but you probably have more skills than you think. The key is to highlight your transferable skills from your previous roles or your day-to-day life. You should also highlight any relevant work experience, even volunteering.

Here are some transferable skills you can highlight in your resume:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Reliability
• Customer service
• Technical skills
• Learning ability

What’s the easiest way to get a job in Australia?

Finding an unskilled job in Australia can be more straightforward when you know which strategies to make use of when looking. Here are four useful steps that can increase your success in your job search:

Apply on online job portals

The best place to start your job search is by looking at roles available on Jora. Jora is a job aggregator, it scours the web and pulls all relevant jobs based on your search, so you can be confident you are seeing all jobs available. You can also set up alerts for jobs you are interested in so you don’t miss any! Jora is a savvy way to keep on top of your job search. And don’t forget that customising your resume and cover letter for each application can increase your chances of getting noticed.

TIP: Keep track of the application process for jobs you’ve applied for, and follow up!

Social media and networking

Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook can be powerful tools for job seekers. You can search for jobs, network with industry professionals and join groups related to unskilled jobs. Networking, both online and offline, can open doors to opportunities that aren’t yet advertised publicly.

Explore local opportunities

For hospitality, retail and tourism stores in Australia, the traditional method of handing in your resume in person may significantly increase your chances of getting hired, especially for local businesses that may not always advertise online. Print out some resumes and take a walk around the city, visiting local businesses to inquire about job openings.

TIP: Wear a nice outfit to show your professionalism and have a chat with each manager in the store, this will make a lasting impression!

Contact employment agencies

Employment agencies can be a valuable resource in your job search, especially if you’re looking for temporary or casual work, which is common in unskilled job markets. These agencies can match you with jobs that suit your skills and preferences. Some agencies specialise in specific industries, so finding one that aligns with the sectors you’re interested in, can help them provide appropriate job opportunities.

TIP: Job searching can be a numbers game, so don’t be discouraged by rejections. Keep applying and be open to feedback to improve your applications.

Can I move to Australia as an unskilled worker?

For international applicants, it is important to carefully navigate the legal framework. Australia has a range of visas available for those looking to work, you can take a look at the available visas on the visa list on the Australian government website. Here you can look at the visa requirements, eligibility criteria specific to your country and the limitations of each visa. Once you have navigated the visa and you know how many hours you can work, you’re well on your way! Now it’s time to start searching for those jobs!

The journey to securing an unskilled job in Australia can be both exciting and daunting. With a solid understanding of the job market, the right preparation, and some persistence, securing an unskilled job is well within reach. Whether you’re a local stepping into the workforce or a visa holder looking to make a move, Australia has a large dynamic job market with a place for everyone.