Career Information for Recent Graduates

Finding work in Victoria

With a highly diversified economy, there are employment opportunities across a multitude of industries and professions in Victoria. Victorians are employed by private small, medium and large-sized businesses and also in public sector organisations such as health services, educational providers, community organisations and state and local governments.

Deciding what work you want to do

To make your job search most effective, give some thought to the type of work you really want to do as well as the kind of organisation you would like to work for. Think about what motivates and interests you as well as your skill set - this will allow you to be more focused and positive about your job search.

Career services

Make the most of the career advisory and employment services available through your educational institution while you are studying. Career staff in these services are well connected with graduate employers and have a good understanding of the employment market. They are usually available for one-on-one interviews and conduct a range of seminars to assist in graduate job search.

Careers services also hold a range of resources and information to help you work out what career direction you would like to take, how to access opportunities and how to market your skills and successfully apply for jobs. For more information about careers services on campus, visit the Graduate Opportunities website.

Internships and graduate employment programs

Many organisations and companies in Melbourne and regional Victoria offer internships and graduate employment programs to recent graduates. These competitive programs provide an excellent opportunity to put your knowledge and skills into practice. They are usually accompanied by a training/mentoring program to help familiarise you with the organisation/company and make the most of the employment opportunity. Graduate programs can sometimes lead to ongoing employment.

Large employers often attend careers exhibitions at universities and TAFEs so be sure to attend these events at your campus. Make the most of these opportunities by deciding what you hope to get out of the event such as:

  • finding out about graduate or vacation work
  • making initial contacts with employers
  • seeking information about specific organisations.

Be prepared with questions to ask as well as answer questions from employers regarding your career goals and interests.

Professional year

Undertaking a professional year can also provide you with the opportunity to gain important work skills and experience in your nominated occupation. Successfully completing an approved professional year will also provide you with 10 points under the General Skilled Migration points test.

For more information about professional year programs currently available to recent graduates visit the DIAC website.

Volunteering and work experience

Many students undertake voluntary work or work experience in Melbourne and regional Victoria during their studies to develop their skills and gain an insight into the workforce. Careers and employment services at your educational institution can help you find suitable voluntary work or work experience.

Further information

For more information about graduate employment visit the following websites:

Also See

Related Sites

Last updated: 07 January 2009

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State Government of Victoria