Chemist

Victoria’s biotechnology and science sector

Since 1999 Victoria has invested A$1.8 billion into science, technology and innovation. Victorian life sciences companies generated sales of A$5.7 billion in 2005-06.

There are approximately 2345 Chemists in Victoria.

The Victorian Government is currently offering visa sponsorship for Chemists with the following specialisations:

  • medicinal chemistry
  • polymer chemistry
  • colloid chemistry
  • bio-inorganic chemistry
  • formulations chemistry
  • mass spectroscopy and other scientific instrumentation.

For a description of the tasks and duties performed by Chemists, visit the Australian Skills Recognition Information page on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's website.

Earning potential

According to the Australian Government’s Job Search website, average gross weekly wages for a Chemist are A$1154.

Wages will vary according to your level of skill and qualification. For more information about your wage earning potential, visit some of the specialty jobseeker sites listed below under finding a job.

Licensing and registration

There are no licensing or registration requirements for Chemists.

Employers

Chemists are often employed in laboratories but may also work in the field, at universities or processing plants. Most Chemists work in the manufacturing sector.

Industry contacts

Professional bodies and industry associations are a good source of information about the biotechnology and science sector in Victoria.

The following bodies may be relevant to Chemists:

  • The Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) represents professional chemists and works to promote the practice of chemistry. It provides career development and networking opportunities, runs conferences and publishes professional guidelines.
  • LabOnline provides information and research updates to science and lab professionals.
  • The Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and & Managers (APESMA) represents a range of professionals including the engineering, science, management and architecture sectors. It provides advice to its members on industrial relations, career development and professional networking.
  • The Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development (DIIRD) provides information on the biotechnology sector through its Business Victoria website.

Tip

We strongly advise you not to apply for jobs until your visa to live and work in Australia has been issued. The visa application process can take many months, and employers are unlikely to choose you for a job if you do not know when you will arrive in Australia.

Finding a job

Specialty jobseeker sites:

To search for Victorian recruiters who specialise in biotechnology and science, visit the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association’s Member Index.

For more general information on Victoria’s job market, including where and how to find jobs, and workplace culture, visit our Working & Employment section.

Migrating to Victoria

To find out about how to migrate to Australia, including information about visa nomination from the Victorian Government, visit our Visas & Immigrating section.

Skill Assessment Information

In order to migrate to Victoria, you will also need to have your skills assessed as part of the application process. For more information, see the Chemist Assessment Information Sheet.

Last updated: 27 July 2009

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State Government of Victoria