News

International students help to address labour shortage

A NEW Australian-first will help address shortages in the labour market by connecting international students directly with NSW employers across the nation’s largest and most diverse state economy.

The NSW Government through Study NSW is partnering with leading employment marketplace SEEK to deliver NSW Jobs Connect for International Students.
Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade Alister Henskens said more than 136,000 international students are actively studying in NSW, integrating into their local communities and investing in their futures, so it’s important that they are supported during their studies and beyond.
“This innovative program will help students identify suitable employment opportunities and link NSW employers to a robust, diverse and reliable source of talent, which will help grow the economy and secure a brighter future for NSW,” he said.
The SEEK platform will now include a “#NSW Jobs Connect” filter, enabling international students to easily identify job opportunities posted by employers.
SEEK Head of Government Relations Kadi Taylor said the pilot is a first of its kind, with employers across a range of sectors including finance, construction, manufacturing and technology taking part in the program.
“Many employers are unaware that international students have work rights during and post their studies, with many having the right to work for up to six years once their study is complete,” Ms Taylor said.
“This program is about bringing students and employers together through our platform and at in-person events, creating opportunities, and equipping both sides with the knowledge and skills to thrive.”
Employers interested in joining the initiative and recruiting international students and graduates, and international students or graduates looking for work should visit study.nsw.gov.au.