Physicist

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 only about 50 Physicists in Victoria.

Victoria is currently offering visa sponsorship in the biotechnology sector for Physicists. For a description of the tasks and duties performed by Physicists, 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 Physicist are A$1788.

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 Physicists.

Employers

Physicists are employed by government departments like the Commonwealth of Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) or Bureau of Meteorology. They may also work in the education sector, private industry or hospitals. Physicists may be employed in research, medicine, meteorology and geophysics and they may be required to use high-tech scientific equipment.

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 Physicists:

  • The Australian Institute of Physics (AIP) provides support to professional physicists and promotes the industry.
  • 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:

  • The AIP operates an online jobs board.
  • Science Alert is a jobs board for science professionals.
  • APESMA operates an online jobs board for its members.
  • ETM Search & Selection is a specialist job search site aimed at technical professionals.

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 Physicist Assessment Information Sheet.

Last updated: 27 July 2009

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State Government of Victoria