“No reference after placement? A critical barrier to employment in Australia’s care & Community sector.”

Post-Placement Reference – A Key Factor in the Career Journey of Vietnamese International Students in Australia
Post-Placement Reference – A Key Factor in the Career Journey of Vietnamese International Students in Australia
Reference – A Non-Negotiable Requirement in Health and Community Services in Australia

If you’re studying or working in Health Care, Social Work, or Community Services, having a credible reference isn’t just a bonus – it’s a requirement.

Unlike many other fields, this sector places a high value on ethical standards, trustworthiness, and the ability to care for others. According to a 2022 report from Jobs and Skills Australia (published in 2024), 63% of employers in the Social & Health sector require a reference check as part of their hiring process.

Without a reference, your job opportunities are nearly zero.

Why Is a Reference So Crucial in This Industry?
  • Assessing professional ethics: Employers want to know if you are truly trustworthy when it comes to supporting vulnerable individuals – such as patients, the elderly, or those with disabilities.
  • Verifying hands-on skills: A post-placement reference is essential for validating your real-world abilities in a care setting.
  • Protecting the community: Australian organisations are highly cautious to avoid hiring unsuitable candidates for positions with significant human responsibility.

According to Hays Australia, employers in health and community services typically ask for at least 2–3 credible referees, preferably from internships, professional roles, or volunteer work.

Common Mistakes Vietnamese International Students Make When Seeking References
  1. Not requesting a reference immediately after placement
    If you wait too long, your supervisor may forget you – or worse, move to another organisation.
  2. Failing to make a strong impression during the placement
    Students who only meet basic requirements and show little initiative may not build enough trust to be listed as a referee.
  3. Misunderstanding how references work in this field
    Many think a written letter is enough. In reality, employers often insist on direct phone calls with referees – especially in health and social work.
No Reference = No Interview

In Australia’s Social & Health sectors:

  • A reference is a vital form of evidence that influences hiring decisions.
  • Aged care, disability support, and healthcare providers have strict compliance checks to uphold service quality.
  • Without a reference, you’re unlikely to even be shortlisted for an interview.
Missed the Chance? Here’s What You Can Do
  • Reach out to your placement provider with a reminder of what you did, attach your CV and a short description of your role to jog their memory.
  • If not possible, look for other referees from paid jobs, volunteer work, or academic mentors in the field.
  • Actively engage in new placements or volunteering programs to rebuild a strong reference base.
How Next Gem Can Help

At Next Gem, we specialise in guiding international students in Health and Community Services. We understand the industry’s high standards and the common challenges faced by Vietnamese students and job seekers.

We support you with:

  • Connecting with reputable placement providers.
  • Helping you secure credible and professional references in Australia.
  • Keeping you up to date with real employer expectations.
  • Assisting with CVs, cover letters, and interview preparation.

 

>> Don’t let the lack of a reference hold back your career. Prepare early – with the right guidance from Next Gem.