Working in Australia

Nearly all immigrants to Australia will be searching for work, so what’s it like working in Australia? What is the Australian work ethic?

Australian working conditions are described as some of the best in the world, with many foreigners commenting on the friendly working environment and the flexible and relaxed working hours.

The average working week is generally 37 hours from Monday to Friday (depending on your job and its requirements). As with most countries and companies, overtime is paid to those who put in extra hours.

Those in fulltime work will be entitled to four weeks paid annual leave each year and ten days paid personal leave (including sick leave and carer’s leave).

Most fulltime workers in Australia will receive the following:

• 4-6 weeks of annual holiday
• Sick leave of 5-10 days per year
• A working week of between 35-40 hours
• Long service leave
• Maternity leave after a qualifying period
• Employer contributions of 9% of your gross salary into a retirement fund