For many Filipinos who are looking to go abroad, working in Australia is one of their utmost goals. In fact, about one in ten OFWs1 would choose Australia as their destination.
This comes as no surprise. Australia has one of the highest average wages in the world, ranking 13th2 according to World Data, which gets its data from World Bank, IMF, or the OECD. And, despite our cultural differences, there isn’t much of a communication problem since English is their primary language. Overall, you can expect a high quality of life in Australia while living in a multicultural society.
Getting a job in Australia can be challenging for anyone who isn’t familiar with all of the processes. Finding a good employer, getting the correct work visa, and getting your skills assessed may be difficult for any first-timer. A reputable recruitment agency can help you navigate through all of these requirements to land your ideal job in Australia.
Go back to the main article: How To Get a Job in Australia (Plus Latest POEA Jobs)
Table of Contents
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At a Glance: Philippine Recruitment Agencies for Australia With Latest Job Orders
- 1. 21st Century Manpower Resources Inc. (For Nursing INT`L.)
- 2. 1st Dynamic Personnel Resources Inc.
- 3. Advance Group Link Manpower Services Inc.
- 4. Al-Kingsmen International Manpower Services Co.
- 5. Ascend International Services Inc.
- 6. Bison Management Corporation
- 7. Camox Philippines Inc.
- 8. Caves Treasures Manpower & Construction Corporation
- 9. Cirrus Global Inc. (Formerly International Quality Manpower Services Inc.)
- 10. Continious Resources International Inc. (For PSK Int’l Inc.)
- 11. CPL Masters Recruitment Agency Inc.
- 12. East West Placement Center Inc.
- 13. Golden Rammad International Manpower Services
- 14. H.M.O. International Human Resources
- 15. Ikon Solutions Asia Inc.
- 16. Interasia Outsource Inc.
- 17. International Skill Development Inc.
- 18. Ipeople Manpower Resources Inc. (Formerly Nightingale International Recruitment)
- 19. Joblane International Manpower Services Inc.
- 20. Leitz Go International Recruitment Inc.
- 21. Multi-Orient Manpower & Management Services Inc.
- 22. Omanfil International Manpower Development Corporation
- 23. Power Horizon International Resources Inc.
- 24. Prinicipalia Management & Personnel Consultants Inc.
- 25. Profile Overseas Manpower Services Inc. (For Skyworld Builders Int’l SVCS)
- 26. QRD International Placement Inc.
- 27. SGS Human Resources Corporation
- 28. Staffhouse International Resources Corporation (Formerly Staffhouse Resource)
- 29. Uniplan Overseas Employment Inc. (MHM Overseas Employment Agency Corp)
- 30. VFG International Placement Inc.
- 31. YWA Human Resource Corporation (Formerly Yangwha Human Resource Corporation)
- Why You Should Apply via POEA Agencies for Jobs in Australia
- How POEA Validates Job Orders
-
How to Apply for Jobs in Australia Through POEA-Accredited Agencies: 9 Steps
- 1. Look for a job opening using the list at the top of the page or the POEA database
- 2. Make your own shortlist of your desired job orders
- 3. Check if the jobs you’ve shortlisted are on Australia’s skilled occupation list
- 4. Research and prepare for the jobs that you want to apply for
- 5. Validate if the POEA-accredited agency has an active license
- 6. Research on the agency
- 7. Contact the POEA-accredited agency
- 8. Update your resume and portfolio
- 9. Submit your application
- Requirements for Getting a Job in Australia Through POEA-Accredited Agencies
- How Much Will It Cost To Go Through a POEA-Accredited Agency To Get a Job in Australia?
- Tips & Warnings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- References
At a Glance: Philippine Recruitment Agencies for Australia With Latest Job Orders
To assist you with your job search, we have compiled a list of POEA-accredited agencies that recruit Filipino skilled workers who are bound for Australia.
Each of the recruitment agencies listed below has been reviewed and verified by our team to have a valid and active POEA license for your ease of use.
1. 21st Century Manpower Resources Inc. (For Nursing INT`L.)
- Address: Rooms 401,405,406 & 407, Jr Bldg., 1520 Quezon Avenue South Triangle, Quezon City
- Tel No/s: 34101234 / 83518906 / 09391928350 / 09997161222
- Email Address: [email protected]/[email protected]
- Website: www.21stcmri.com
- Official Representative: Russell C. Garcia
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 3/8/2020 to 3/7/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
2. 1st Dynamic Personnel Resources Inc.
- Address: 3F, JLC Bldg., N. 8 N. Ramirez Street Don Manuel, Quezon City
- Tel No/s: (02) 7984048
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.1stdynamicpersonnel.com
- Official Representative: Catherine Liana Z. Chua
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 4/9/2018 to 9/13/2022
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
3. Advance Group Link Manpower Services Inc.
- Address: 2F 35-I General Ave., GSIS Village Project 8, Quezon City
- Tel No/s: 0961-6434 / 0939-9250064
- Email Address: N/A
- Website: [email protected]
- Official Representative: Ceres L. Rivera
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 3/19/2021 to 04/15/2025
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
4. Al-Kingsmen International Manpower Services Co.
- Address: Unit 10 Singalong Townhomes II, 1706 Singalong St., Manila
- Tel No/s: 0928-706-4591
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: N/A
- Official Representative: Krizel N. Hervera
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 10/20/2021 to 10/14/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
5. Ascend International Services Inc.
- Address: Rooms 309 & 314 L&S Bldg., 1414 Roxad Blvd., Ermita, Manila
- Tel No/s: 5232852 / 5233051 / 09087287997 / 09335230350
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: ascendmanila.com
- Official Representative: Amor C. Desepeda
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 1/23/2020 to 1/22/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Cabinet Makers | October 10, 2022 |
| Concreter | October 10, 2022 |
| Welder | October 10, 2022 |
6. Bison Management Corporation
- Address: GF,2F&3F (LW), BHM Centre 3963 Yague Street Brgy., Sta Cruz, Makati City
- Tel No/s: 8964667 / 758-1159 To 64
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.bisonjobs.com
- Official Representative: Belen M. Alhumayed
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 12/20/2018 to 12/19/2022
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
7. Camox Philippines Inc.
- Address: U-C,D,E & F (3F) And Mezz A, B & C,1646 Evangelista-Bel Bangkal, Makati
- Tel No/s: 8439149 / 8439141 / 8441366
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: N/A
- Official Representative: Chinita Vargas Reyes
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 6/6/2019 to 6/5/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
8. Caves Treasures Manpower & Construction Corporation
- Address: Unit A31, 3F, Zeta II Bldg., 191 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati
- Tel No/s: 8134862 / 8927833 / 09998848606 / 0998630149
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.cavesmanpower.com
- Official Representative: Elpidio A. Contreras
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 9/12/2022 to 1/1/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Jetski Mechanic | October 25, 2022 |
| Motorcycle Mechanic (Big Bike) | October 25, 2022 |
| Heavy Diesel Mechanic | October 25, 2022 |
| Truck Mechanic (Engine Rebuilding) | October 25, 2022 |
| Tractor Mechanic (Massey Ferguson) | October 25, 2022 |
| Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Caterpillar / Monark) | October 25, 2022 |
| Aircraft Mechanic | October 24, 2022 |
| Aircraft Painter | October 24, 2022 |
| Welder / Fabricator (Stainless Tanks) | October 24, 2022 |
| Truck Mechanic (Hino/Fuso/Isuzu/Volvo) | October 24, 2022 |
| Auto Electrician (Dealership Experience) | October 24, 2022 |
| Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Cat / Komatsu) | October 24, 2022 |
| Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Mining) | October 24, 2022 |
| Forklift Mechanic | October 24, 2022 |
| Tractor Mechanic | October 24, 2022 |
| Concrete Pump Operator | October 24, 2022 |
| Driller Fitter | October 24, 2022 |
9. Cirrus Global Inc. (Formerly International Quality Manpower Services Inc.)
- Address: Rooms 225 & 228, #2232 Don Chino Roces, Avenue Makati
- Tel No/s: 02 8231 2537 / 02 7719 2195
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.cirrusrecruitment.com
- Official Representative: Ophelia G. Gonzales
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 9/16/2019 to 9/15/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Pastry Cooks | October 28, 2022 |
| Structural Steel Erectors | October 28, 2022 |
| Auto Electricians | October 27, 2022 |
| Chopper Gun Operators | October 26, 2022 |
| Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanics | October 26, 2022 |
| Construction Riggers | October 25, 2022 |
| Floor Finisher | October 24, 2022 |
| AWP Service Technicians | October 18, 2022 |
10. Continious Resources International Inc. (For PSK Int’l Inc.)
- Address: Units 203 & 205, 2/F, Aussie Tower, 1418 M.H. Del Ermita, Manila
- Tel No/s: (02) 8525-8361 / (02) 5310-3006 / 09338696447
- Email Address: [email protected] / [email protected]
- Website: https://criiph.com
- Official Representative: N/A
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 1/30/2019 to 1/29/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
11. CPL Masters Recruitment Agency Inc.
- Address: Unit 304, 3/F, Aussie Tower, 1418 M.H. Del Pilar St., Manila
- Tel No/s: (02) 5258934 / (02)3434332 / (045)4364369 / 09178101928
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: N/A
- Official Representative: Monina O. Plama-Laus
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 12/15/2020 to 6/23/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
12. East West Placement Center Inc.
- Address: Ground Floor, Rizz Tower, 1059 Metropolitan Avenue, San Antonio Village, Makati
- Tel No/s: 8895-6911 / 8896-8203
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.eastwest.com.ph
- Official Representative: Lorielyn B. Lopez
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 1/3/2019 to 1/2/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
13. Golden Rammad International Manpower Services
- Address: Rooms 301, 302 & 303 (3F) J Abad Santos Bldg., 1390 Gen. Luna Paco, Manila
- Tel No/s: 7144609 / 09062367888 / 09516712296 / 09169026037
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: N/A
- Official Representative: Artemio G. Francisco
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 10/27/2019 to 10/26/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
14. H.M.O. International Human Resources
- Address: Units 201& 202, Aussie Tower, 1418 MH Del Pilar Ermita, Manila
- Tel No/s: 5228714 / 4002757
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.hmoihr.com
- Official Representative: Tessie B. Manatad
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 9/12/2022 to 1/1/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Knitting Machine Technician | October 28, 2022 |
| Large Gearbox HD Mechanic | October 28, 2022 |
| Bus Technician / Electrician | October 27, 2022 |
15. Ikon Solutions Asia Inc.
- Address: 8-A, 8/F, Algo Center Bldg., 162 L.P. Leviste Salcedo Village, Makati
- Tel No/s: 88403252
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.ikonlink.com
- Official Representative: Paolo Roberto M. Martel
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 1/13/2021 to 1/12/2025
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
16. Interasia Outsource Inc.
- Address: 5F Don Chua Lamko Bldg., 100 Leviste Cor H V Dela Cos Salcedo Village, Makati
- Tel No/s: 09178947215 / 09088121660 / 09178854253 / 8122951
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.interasiaoutsource.com
- Official Representative: Lourdes Y. Querubin
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 6/20/2019 to 6/19/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Auto Electrician (Truck) | October 5, 2022 |
| Heavy Duty Mechanic | October 5, 2022 |
| Mechanical Fitter (Propulsion System) | October 5, 2022 |
17. International Skill Development Inc.
- Address: GF (Front), 2F & 3F, ISD Bldg., 5439 Curie St., Palanan, Makati
- Tel No/s: 5511910 / 5517452 / 8331242 / 5501595 / 8322539
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.isdphilippines.com
- Official Representative: Mr. Levi S. De Mesa
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 10/29/2019 to 10/28/2031
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
18. Ipeople Manpower Resources Inc. (Formerly Nightingale International Recruitment)
- Address: 4F, Monfortino Bldg., 4813 Valderama St., Pio Del Pilar, Makati
- Tel No/s: 7534288 / 541-9784
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.ipeoplemanpower.com.ph
- Official Representative: Gregorio G. Garces Jr.
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 6/16/2019 to 6/15/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Diesel Mechanic (Auto Mechanic) | October 26, 2022 |
| Automotive Electrician | October 26, 2022 |
19. Joblane International Manpower Services Inc.
- Address: 6/F, BDO Bldg., 707 T.M Kalaw Cor. Churruca St., Ermita, Manila
- Tel No/s: 7086038
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.joblane.net
- Official Representative: Jeanybel Mc Carthy
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 9/10/2019 to 9/9/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
20. Leitz Go International Recruitment Inc.
- Address: 2F, 156 Bldg., 156 Dona Soledad Ave., Better Living Subdivision, Parañaque
- Tel No/s: (+63) 917-708 3430
- Email Address: [email protected]/[email protected]
- Website: www.leitzgo.com.ph
- Official Representative: Rudy Aceron Argamosa
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 1/29/2020 to 1/28/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
21. Multi-Orient Manpower & Management Services Inc.
- Address: Ground Floor (LW), Recraa I Bldg., Vitalez Compound, Parañaque
- Tel No/s: 8293629 / 8257956 to 59 / 09999942657 / 09328853058
- Email Address: [email protected]/ [email protected]
- Website: N/A
- Official Representative: Flora P. Ocampo
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 2/27/2020 to 2/26/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Cabinet Maker | October 6, 2022 |
| Carpenter – Joinery | October 6, 2022 |
| Pressure Washer Cleaner Maintenance / Mechanic | October 6, 2022 |
22. Omanfil International Manpower Development Corporation
- Address: Rodeo Bldg., 802 Km. 18 West Service Road South Super Hiway, Parañaque City
- Tel No/s: 8211650-55 / 8222141-45
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.omanfil.com
- Official Representative: Rosalinda R. De Ocampo
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 8/2/2010 to 9/25/2026
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
23. Power Horizon International Resources Inc.
- Address: Unit A-41B, Zeta II Bldg., 191 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati
- Tel No/s: 8123377 / 09338150574
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.powerhorizonmanila.com.ph
- Official Representative: N/A
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 12/10/2018 to 12/9/2022
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Plumbing Estimator | October 18, 2022 |
| Plumbers | October 18, 2022 |
| Blaster Painters | October 18, 2022 |
| Welder Fabricator | October 18, 2022 |
| Mechanical Technicians | October 18, 2022 |
| Welder Fabricator / Boilermaker | October 6, 2022 |
| Mechanical Fitters | October 5, 2022 |
24. Prinicipalia Management & Personnel Consultants Inc.
- Address: Units 701 & 702, 7/F, Alexander House, Condominium B Legaspi Village, Makati
- Tel No/s: 815-1077
- Email Address: [email protected]/ [email protected]
- Website: www.principalia.com
- Official Representative: Lucas Felix M. Britanico
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 4/2/2020 to 4/1/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Auto Mechanic | October 28, 2022 |
| Auto Technician | October 28, 2022 |
| Car Technician | October 28, 2022 |
| Light Vehicle Mechanic | October 6, 2022 |
| Car Mechanic | October 6, 2022 |
| Framing Carpenter | October 5, 2022 |
25. Profile Overseas Manpower Services Inc. (For Skyworld Builders Int’l SVCS)
- Address: Units 907 & 1010, Herrera Tower V.A. Rufino Corner Valero, Salcedo Viilage, Makati
- Tel No/s: 8133234 / 8132223 / 0999-8810527 / 09178112219
- Email Address: [email protected]/[email protected]
- Website: www.profilemanpower.com
- Official Representative: Jesus Noel Litan
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 3/8/2020 to 3/7/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
26. QRD International Placement Inc.
- Address: Unit 201 FSS Building-II, 18 Scout Tuason cor. Scout Castor Street, Quezon City, 1103 Metro Manila
- Tel No/s: 83751142 loc.101 / 709-7772 / 09178456079 / 09988417182
- Email Address: [email protected] / [email protected]
- Website: qrdinternational.com
- Official Representative: Gerard B. Sanvictore
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 11/7/2019 to 11/6/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
27. SGS Human Resources Corporation
- Address: S 504-505 Pasda Mansions, 77 Panay Cor Timog, Quezon City
- Tel No/s: 83515355 / 334108446 / 83718142 / 3762956 / 09172025394
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.sgshumanresources.com
- Official Representative: Flor Palces-Augustin
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 2/7/2020 to 2/6/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
28. Staffhouse International Resources Corporation (Formerly Staffhouse Resource)
- Address: No. 43 Westpoint Street, Cubao Quezon City
- Tel No/s: 9133333 / 4371818
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.staffhouse.com
- Official Representative: Marc R J R Capistrano
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 7/13/2019 to 7/12/2023
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
29. Uniplan Overseas Employment Inc. (MHM Overseas Employment Agency Corp)
- Address: Ground Floor & Second Floor, No. 302 J.P. Rizal St., Quezon City
- Tel No/s: 89915181 / 89118548 / 09178055055 / 09175997785
- Email Address: [email protected] / [email protected]
- Website: www.uniplanoverseas.com
- Official Representative: Ms. Elnora V. Meria
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 1/23/2020 to 1/22/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
30. VFG International Placement Inc.
- Address: Unit 5A & 5B High Pointe Bldg., 1184 Chino Roces A San Antonio Village, MakatiI
- Tel No/s: (632) 7720353 / 09175237267
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: N/A
- Official Representative: Ester F. Velasco
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 6/24/2020 to 6/23/2024
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
| Carpenter / Floor Finisher | October 28, 2022 |
| Fabricator Welders (FCAW, MIG) | October 28, 2022 |
| Blaster Painter | October 28, 2022 |
| Machinist | October 28, 2022 |
31. YWA Human Resource Corporation (Formerly Yangwha Human Resource Corporation)
- Address: 1268 Gen. Luna St., Paco, Manila
- Tel No/s: 5242181 / 5242185 / 5242188 / 0285242181 / 0285242181
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Website: www.ywacorp.com
- Official Representative: Ms. Acela Q. Dilkes
- Status: Valid License
- License Validity: 11/12/2018 to 11/11/2022
| Position | Date Posted/Approved |
Why You Should Apply via POEA Agencies for Jobs in Australia
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is an agency of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Its responsibility is to inspect and approve Philippine recruitment agencies in order to protect Filipinos from illegal recruitment schemes, substandard labor practices, and scams such as identity theft.
The licenses of recruitment agencies are only valid for four years and can be revoked by the POEA before they expire. You can check the POEA’s agency database to see if the agency’s license is still valid. Their online database is also regularly updated and can be used to look for legitimate agencies with job openings in Australia and other countries.
When applying for a job in Australia, there are several advantages to using a POEA-accredited recruitment agency, including the following:
- These agencies can easily guide you through the entire job-hunting process, including mandatory skills assessments and helping you acquire the right kind of visa for your job.
- They can improve your chances of getting the job because many of these recruitment agencies have developed relationships with many foreign employers and know what these foreign employers are looking for in an employee.
- You are less likely to get scammed or get hired by an abusive employer who will subject you to substandard working conditions.
- The POEA has the authority to order the recruitment agency to refund a portion of your money and return your papers in the event of a dispute.
- You can contact the POEA if you need assistance in case you’re approached by an agency that asks you to engage in illegal or suspicious activities.
How POEA Validates Job Orders
Foreign employers or placement agencies are required to course their manpower needs through POEA-licensed Philippine recruitment agencies and manning agencies.
These local agencies will then forward the application to the POEA for review and approval. The POEA screens job postings and issues a job order after it has been verified that it is a legitimate job opening free of suspicions. You can then apply for job openings with the approved job orders.
A word of caution, jobs from previous work orders may no longer be available. So, when looking for jobs, choose from the most recent job orders on the POEA database or the list at the top of this guide. Details of job orders also include the date of submission, the names of each position, and the number of positions.
How to Apply for Jobs in Australia Through POEA-Accredited Agencies: 9 Steps
Now that you have a list of recruitment agencies for Australian jobs and you’re aware of the advantages of going through an agency, here’s a simple 9-step guide to help you land your desired job in Australia:
1. Look for a job opening using the list at the top of the page or the POEA database
If you’re using the POEA database, choose Australia from the list of countries in the drop-down menu.
You can arrange the information on the database to make it easier to find your ideal job. There are three available options to choose from:
- Sort by the date the JO was approved or by the default filter order. This arranges the JOs by recency, prioritizing job orders that have a higher likelihood of still being available for you to apply for.
- Sort by agency. This option alphabetically arranges the list of approved job orders sorted by the agency name. Use this filter if you’re looking for a job order through a specific recruitment agency.
- Sort the results by position. This arranges the list alphabetically based on the position’s name. This is the best option If you want to apply for a specific job position.
You can always come back to the POEA website in case you don’t find a job that you’re looking for. The website’s database is updated and maintained regularly by the POEA.
2. Make your own shortlist of your desired job orders
Using the POEA database or the list we’ve provided at the top of the page, you can make a shortlist of all the ideal job positions that you’d like to apply for.
Use the Sort by Position function to make filtering easier when using the POEA website. Following the use of the filter, you should:
- Take note of the posting date of the job order. The most recent approved job orders are the most likely to have open positions.
- Check the number of open positions in the job order. The greater the number of open positions, the more likely you will be accommodated by the employer and hired.
As an example, if you want to apply for a position as a welder, make a shortlist of all the job orders based on the posting date and number of vacancies available using the Sort by Position function. This will help you narrow down your search for viable opportunities that can lead to a job that you want.
3. Check if the jobs you’ve shortlisted are on Australia’s skilled occupation list
You can do this by going to the bottom of this page on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. You’ll find a search bar like the one pictured below.
It’s important that the job is on the skilled occupation list since it increases your chances of getting your work visa approved.
4. Research and prepare for the jobs that you want to apply for
You can check the website of the Australia Bureau of Statistics for general information about the jobs you want. For more detailed information, it’s better to visit a few online job boards like seek.com.au, jobsearch.gov.au, au.indeed.com, and au.jora.com.
Most of these websites will provide you with a number of job postings with important job-related information. These include details such as the job description, expected salary, job requirements, location, and other pertinent details.
This is a great way to check how qualified you are for a specific type of job.
5. Validate if the POEA-accredited agency has an active license
You can check the status and license validity dates by searching for the agency’s name in the POEA’s agency database.
6. Research on the agency
Looking for an agency that can meet your needs can go a long way in helping you land the job you want. It is recommended that you visit their official website and social media accounts to learn more about them.
Look for the following crucial information:
- Contact details and location
- Application and recruitment process
- Fees (if any)
- Support services they provide to OFWs
- Reviews from other people who have experience working with the agency
7. Contact the POEA-accredited agency
Once you’ve found an agency that meets your requirements, get in touch with them and ask them for all the requirements for the job. This is so that you can prepare before visiting their office.
8. Update your resume and portfolio
This is your opportunity to showcase how your talents and expertise meet the requirements of the job. You can do the following to improve your chances of getting hired:
- Research about the potential employer, their values, and the specific requirements of the job. Visit their official website and social media accounts to learn more about them. You can also take the initiative and ask others who may have applied through the same agency. Knowing more about the company gives you a better idea of what kind of traits the employer looks for in their employees so that you can prepare ahead of time.
- Create a customized cover letter and resume. A personalized cover letter will let the agency know that you’re serious about getting the job. It makes you stand out from the competition and makes your resume much more memorable and impactful. To make a good first impression, be sure to immediately highlight your greatest accomplishments and strengths.
- Prepare for your interview. List down relevant topics and questions that you may expect the interviewer to bring up so that you’re prepared to answer them. Review the job description and think of how to highlight your skills to match the requirements of the job.
You should also consider preparing a list of questions for your interviewer. Asking relevant questions about the job has some distinct advantages. Firstly, it helps you be more prepared for the job in case you are hired. Secondly, it shows the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and skilled in that field since it will be hard for someone to ask good questions about a subject that they have little to no experience in. Lastly, it shows your sincerity and interest in getting the job.
9. Submit your application
Once you’ve prepared all the requirements, do your due diligence and double-check everything before contacting the agency. Visit them and ask for assistance so that they can guide you the rest of the way.
Requirements for Getting a Job in Australia Through POEA-Accredited Agencies
1. Australian Work Visas
There are more than 40 different types of valid work visas. The one you need will depend on your line of work and how long you plan on staying. The processing time for each kind of visa will vary widely and can take anywhere from a few weeks to more than 2 years.
The complete list of all 40+ work visas can be found on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website. However, not all of those work visas will apply to you.
If you are unsure of what kind of visa you’ll be needing for your specific line of work, you can use their visa finder to help you out. They have a simple 3-step guided questionnaire to help you determine which specific visa you will need.
You can also check the visas available for the specific job you want by using the search bar on the skilled occupation list.
To get a better idea of how long it may take for your visa to be processed, you can also use their visa – global processing times database.
To further simplify the whole process, ask for assistance from your agency. They will likely guide you in applying for the correct visa that you’ll need.
2. Common Job Search Requirements
a. Language Testing
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular English language proficiency test for global migration. It is one of the accepted language tests by the Australian Department of Home Affairs alongside the TOEFL.
The score you need will depend on the visa that you are applying for. You can check the details through the specific visa page on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
There are a number of IELTS testing sites throughout the Philippines conducted by the British Council and by International Education Specialists (IDP). You can book a test here to choose the most convenient location and time for you. You can choose to take the exam on paper or on a computer. Regardless, you will have to go to the testing site to take the exam.
b. School credentials
School credentials include your high school and/or college or vocational diploma or certificate, transcript of records (TOR), and English certificate. It’s best to ask the recruitment agency in case they will need more.
3. Job-Specific Requirements
a. Practical trade test and written exam
Depending on the specific job you’ve applied for, the recruitment agency may ask you to undergo a practical trade exam that’s related to your trade. They may also ask you to accomplish a written exam to test your general knowledge, English proficiency, and aptitude.
b. Skills assessment
Once you have passed the interviews and exams from the recruitment agency, you may still be required to undergo a skills assessment, a procedure required for some visa subclasses, and may be requested for others. It is to further check if your skills meet the standards to work in a given occupation.
The recruitment agency will guide you through this process. If you want to do your own research ahead of time, you can browse through the skilled occupation list from the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
This list will tell you which occupations will require a skills assessment, what are the valid visas for each, and which assessing authorities can issue the corresponding skills assessment.
c. Educational qualifications, skills, and experience
This will vary depending on the requirements of each industry and the foreign employer. It would be best to ask the recruitment agency to learn about the specific details.
4. Philippine Government Requirements
Aside from the requirements of your host country and employer, the POEA has the following requirements to properly prepare you for working abroad:
a. PEOS Certificate
The PEOS is a free eight-module online seminar that’s designed to educate you about overseas job application procedures and documentary requirements for working abroad. It will also give you information to help protect yourself from illegal recruitment scams. You can register for the seminar through their official website.
b. Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
The OEC, also known as the exit clearance/pass, is a document that certifies that you are legally registered under the POEA. All OFWs are required to have an OEC when leaving or returning to work in another country. As an added feature, you can use it to avoid paying travel taxes and airport terminal fees.
How Much Will It Cost To Go Through a POEA-Accredited Agency To Get a Job in Australia?
1. Placement Fee
Recruitment agencies are generally allowed by law to charge you a placement fee as payment for their recruitment and placement services.
An Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) may be charged an equivalent to one (1) month basic salary specified in the POEA-approved contract3. Charging more than what is lawfully allowed has heavy penalties for the agency, including the possible cancellation of their license plus a refund of the excess placement fee collected from the worker, with interest at 6% per annum from the collection.
In some cases, the placement fee is shouldered by foreign employers. Be sure to talk to your chosen POEA-accredited agency to clarify how much they will charge you. If you still have doubts, you can coordinate with the POEA to avoid any unlawful or excess charges.
2. Skills Assessment
Skills assessment does not have a standardized price. Skills assessments are conducted by a designated assessing authority4, each with its own respective charges.
A skills assessment will typically cost more than $500 (AUD). Your recruitment agency will help you get assessed by an organization that’s qualified to test you based on the job you’re applying for. Ask your recruitment agency for the specific cost as this can greatly vary depending on the assessing authority that handles the type of job that you’re applying for.
3. Language Testing
IELTS costs typically start from ₱11,650. You may incur additional costs if you also enroll in a review center. Make sure to ask your recruitment agency for a recommended company because there are also scams related to language testing.
4. Australian Visa Cost
The cost to acquire a visa will greatly vary depending on the kind of visa that you need for your specific job and your planned length of stay in Australia. A work visa can cost anything from AUD $0 to $4,000 or more. You can use the visafinder to see what cost you can expect but $4,115 is a safe estimate on the higher end.
Many POEA-accredited recruitment agencies will help you apply for the correct Australian work visa that will be applicable to you. Some of them will even help process both the skills assessment and Australian visa applications for you.
Related: How To Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa: A Complete Guide for Filipino Tourists
5. Documentation Fees
Of the documents that you need when looking for a job abroad, the following are the ones with fees attached to them:
- Passport – ₱950 for Regular (12 business days) and ₱1200 for Expedite (6 business days)
- NBI / Barangay / Police Clearance – NBI Clearance Fee ₱115 + ₱15 DST & ₱25 System Fee (Online) The barangay and police clearance fees depend on your location.
- PSA Authenticated Birth Certificate – ₱330 through online delivery
- Medical Exam – cost depends on the clinic
- PhilHealth Contribution – initial contribution of ₱2,400, additional contributions depend on the salary indicated on the employment contract
- Pag-IBIG Membership – minimum of ₱100
Tips & Warnings
1. Rember the agency red flags
- The most serious red flag is when a recruitment agency is not accredited by the POEA. You can verify the accreditation status of an agency by going through the list of accredited agencies on the POEA website.
- You are being asked for more than the required placement fee or are asked to pay by the agency before signing any contract. The placement fee should only be equivalent to one (1) month of your basic salary based on your POEA-approved contract. Check with the POEA if you are being charged more than that to validate the costs being charged to you.
- There is not enough information available about the job and its requirements. If the agency and employer are unwilling to provide you with sufficient information about the job, do not apply for it. This is especially true when looking for work in a different country.
- There is very little information about the employer on the internet. Most legitimate employers will likely have an official website or social media pages where you can find more information on them.
2. Do your research on your potential employer
Learn about the company’s core values, how they do business, and how they treat their employees. All of this is essential to determine whether you are a good fit for the job and if you’ll want to work for them. It is also an excellent way to prepare for your interview so that you can better answer their questions and, in turn, ask them the right questions in preparation for the job.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there alternatives to going through POEA-accredited agencies?
You can still apply to work in Australia through SkillSelect and online job boards. However, there is a direct hiring ban in place in Australia. This means that even if you get hired through other methods, your Australian employer or foreign placement agency must still route their manpower needs through POEA-licensed Philippine recruitment and manning agencies.
Only Australian employers who are exempted from the direct hiring ban5 can hire up to five (5) Filipino professionals and skilled workers without going through a Philippine recruitment agency.
Examples of employers that may directly hire6 are:
- High-ranking members of diplomatic corps; international organizations; heads of state and government officials with the rank of at least deputy minister. Lower-ranking members may also be exempt if endorsed by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), or Head of Mission in the absence of the POLO
- Employer is a family member and is a permanent resident of the host country
- Employer who offers the worker a verified contract that is over and above the standards set by the POEA
Ask the POEA to verify if the employer you’re talking to is exempt from the ban.
2. Are there agencies or job positions that do not require a placement fee?
There are cases where the placement fee is not required from the worker. This usually happens when there is a shortage of workers in an industry or job position. Because of the demand, the employer is more than willing to shoulder the placement fee.
This is why it is very important to course your employment needs through POEA-accredited agencies. These agencies are not allowed to charge you any excessive placement fees.
3. When should the placement fee be paid?
You are only required to pay the placement fee to the licensed recruitment agency after signing the POEA-approved contract. The agency must then issue a BIR-registered receipt stating the date of payment and the exact amount paid.
4. How do Australian employers hire Filipinos through POEA?
An Australian employer intending to hire Filipino workers and professionals for the first time needs to be accredited by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). Once they’ve been accredited, they will submit their authenticated documents to a POEA-accredited Philippine recruitment agency. The agency will then submit these to the POEA for review and job order issuance.
References
- Bevan, K. (2018). Why so many Filipinos choose Australia as their second home. Retrieved 24 March 2022, from https://www.worldremit.com/en/stories/story/2018/01/26/filipinos-australia
- Average income around the world. (2020). Retrieved 25 March 2022, from https://www.worlddata.info/average-income.php
- Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). (2016). Revised POEA Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Land-based Overseas Filipino Workers of 2016 [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www.poea.gov.ph/laws&rules/files/Revised%20POEA%20Rules%20And%20Regulations.pdf
- Assessing authorities. (2020). Retrieved 25 March 2022, from https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skills-assessment/assessing-authorities
- Embassy of The Philippines in Australia. Guide for Australian Employers on Hiring Filipino Workers and Professionals [PDF]. Retrieved from https://dms.philembassy.org.au/index.php/website/latest/polo-1/69-guide-for-australian-employers-on-hiring-filipino-workers-and-professionals/file
- Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Direct Hire Assistance Division Team. 21 Questions and Answers about Direct Hiring[PDF]. Retrieved from https://www.poea.gov.ph/files/21%20FAQ%20DH.pdf
