“Are you an international student currently studying or have recently graduated in Social Work or Health in Australia? This article will help you understand the 485 visa, eligibility requirements, and essential tips for securing a post-graduate internship. Let NextGem guide you through!”
1. Introducing the 485 Visa – Your Pathway to Stay and Work in Australia After Graduation
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is an excellent opportunity for international graduates to remain in Australia, gain professional experience, and even take steps toward permanent residency. Designed for those who have completed a degree from an Australian institution, this visa allows you to apply your academic knowledge in the real world.
There are three main streams of the 485 visa:
- Graduate Work Stream: For graduates whose qualifications relate to occupations listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), along with meeting other criteria.
- Post-Study Work Stream: For students who have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree from a CRICOS-registered Australian institution.
- Second Post-Study Work Stream: For applicants who held a previous 485 visa under the Post-Study Work stream and studied and lived in a designated regional area during their first 485 visa.
2. 485 Visa Eligibility – Are You Ready?
To apply for the 485 visa, you must meet several key requirements:
- Completed Eligible Qualification: You must complete at least one CRICOS-registered course in Australia, with a minimum duration of 2 academic years (92 weeks) and at the Diploma level or higher.
- Age: You must be under 35 years old at the time of application.
- English Proficiency: Meet English language requirements, usually IELTS 6.0 (with no band less than 5.0) or equivalent scores in PTE Academic.
- Health Insurance: You must have adequate health cover for the duration of your stay.
- Character Requirements: You must meet the character criteria (no criminal record).
For the Graduate Work Stream, you must also:
- Have studied a course that is directly related to an occupation on the MLTSSL and provide a positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority.
- Apply within 6 months of completing your course.
Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the most up-to-date information.
3. Key Considerations When Seeking Post-Graduate Internships in Social Work and Health
Australia’s social work and health sectors are in high demand, offering great post-study internship opportunities. However, to maximise your success while holding a 485 visa, you should consider the following:
3.1. Registration and Certification Requirements
- Social Work: To work as a social worker in Australia, your qualification must be recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). While some internships may not require immediate registration, having an AASW-accredited degree is crucial for long-term career prospects and is highly valued by employers.
- Health Professions (Nursing, Allied Health, etc.): Professions such as nursing, physiotherapy, and other health roles require registration with relevant boards (e.g. Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia – NMBA). For internships, you may need a provisional registration or be in the process of registering. Always check the specific requirements of each internship opportunity.
3.2. Finding Internship Opportunities
- Networking: Attend career fairs, professional events, and connect with lecturers, alumni, and industry professionals. Many opportunities are found through word-of-mouth and personal connections.
- Job Search Platforms: Use trusted Australian job portals such as Seek, Indeed, LinkedIn, and visit websites of hospitals, health organisations, and non-profits in the social sector.
- University Programs: Many universities have established partnerships with industry providers and offer internship programs for students and alumni. Contact your university’s career services office for support.
3.3. Preparing a Professional Application
- Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your documents to highlight your relevant skills and experiences—both academic and volunteer—and demonstrate your cultural fit for Australian workplaces.
- Volunteer Experience: If you lack formal work experience, consider volunteering in related sectors to build your resume and grow your professional network.
3.4. Know Your Rights and Obligations Under the 485 Visa
- Full-Time Work Rights: The 485 visa allows full-time work, making it ideal for full-time internships or entry-level roles.
- Workplace Regulations: Familiarise yourself with Australian labour laws, including minimum wage, working conditions, and occupational health and safety regulations.
4. NextGem’s Insights and Recommendations
With years of experience supporting international students, NextGem recognises that securing a post-study internship in Social Work and Health under the 485 visa is a strategic and rewarding step. The Australian job market is actively seeking skilled professionals in these fields—especially in the wake of recent workforce challenges.
Our advice:
- Start Early: Don’t wait until graduation. Begin researching registration requirements, building connections, and seeking opportunities while you’re still studying.
- Embrace Every Learning Opportunity: Part-time or volunteer work—even outside your field—can help you build essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Seek Expert Support: Navigating internships and visa regulations in Australia can be complex. Don’t hesitate to contact professional education and migration consultants like NextGem for personalised guidance.
Don’t let uncertainty around the 485 visa or internship process hold you back. NextGem is here to support your journey toward a successful career in Australia.
>> Contact NextGem today for a free consultation and career pathway planning tailored to your goals!
