Australian work experience
You are eligible to be awarded Australian work experience points if you have been employed in Australia:
- in an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- while holding a visa that allows you to work
- for at least 20 hours a week
- in a paid position
- at a skilled level in your nominated occupation or in a closely related occupation on the SOL
- for a period(s) totalling at least one (1) year in the four (4) years immediately before the day you lodge your application
You can also be awarded these points if you have completed a recognised Professional Year in Australia.
See: Professional Year
Points awarded
The table below sets out the points available under this part of the points test.
| Australian work experience | Points |
|---|---|
| Employed in your nominated occupation, or a closely related occupation, in Australia for at least one (1) year in the past four (4) years immediately before the day of your application. | 10 |
| Completed a recognised Professional Year in Australia in the past two (2) years immediately before the day of your application. | 10 |
Evidence to attach to your application
If you are seeking points for Australian work experience, you must attach certified copies of your work references totalling the required one (1) year period.
Your work experience references must:
- be written on the official letterhead of the company or government department providing the reference. The letterhead should indicate clearly the full address of the company and any telephone, fax numbers, email and website addresses
- include the name and position of the person authorised to sign the employment reference which should be typed or stamped below that person's signature – a reference with an illegible signature will not be accepted
- include the direct contact number of the person writing the reference
- indicate the exact period of employment, including:
- whether permanent or temporary
- full or part time
- the main five duties undertaken
- the salary earned
- a payslip from your current employment should also be included – this is especially important for applicants working in government departments.
- position/s held
Note: Positions should not be described by generic titles (for example, research officer) but according to the nature of the duties undertaken (for example, research chemist)
Other documents to confirm your work experience claims may include, but are not limited to:
- contracts
- tax returns
- group certificates
- superannuation information.
If you have completed a recognised Professional Year you must obtain documentary evidence of this which includes:
- a certified copy of notification of your results or a transcript of your academic record
and - one of the following:
- a certified copy of your degree, diploma or trade certificate (if available)
- a letter of completion from your educational institution which details:
- the name of your course
- the duration of your course
- the qualification you have obtained
- the pattern of study, including periods of full time and part time study
- the medium of instruction was in English.
For you to be awarded these points, documentary evidence as described above must be included with your application.
Before lodging an application, please read all related eligibility requirements.
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