28/01/2025
Just some Tips for those interested.
Working or studying in Australia or New Zealand without external financial assistance or aid programs can be challenging due to visa requirements, tuition fees, and living expenses. However, here are some practical options for Papua New Guineans to achieve this:
1. Skilled Migration Pathways (for Work)
• Australia:
• Apply for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), which do not require employer sponsorship.
• To qualify:
• Complete a skills assessment relevant to your profession (e.g., nursing, teaching, engineering).
• Achieve a sufficient score on the Points Test (age, English proficiency, qualifications, and work experience are assessed).
• Register with any necessary Australian regulatory bodies (e.g., AHPRA for healthcare workers).
• Papua New Guineans benefit from close ties with Australia, so recognition of qualifications is often streamlined.
• New Zealand:
• Apply for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
• To qualify:
• Secure a job offer in New Zealand or have recognized skills in demand.
• Meet health, character, and English language requirements.
Easiest Pathway: Apply for jobs directly in high-demand sectors (e.g., healthcare, agriculture, construction) and secure employer sponsorship. Papua New Guineans can benefit from the Australian Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme or Seasonal Worker Program for short-term work in agriculture.
2. Education Pathways (Study-to-Work Opportunities)
• Look for tuition-free or low-cost scholarship opportunities offered directly by Australian or New Zealand universities, such as:
• Research scholarships for postgraduate students (Master’s or Ph.D.).
• Course-specific funding (especially for STEM or healthcare courses).
• Work while studying:
• Student visas in both Australia and New Zealand allow part-time work during studies (up to 20 hours per week and full-time during breaks).
Easiest Pathway: Apply for university programs in fields where PNG qualifications are highly regarded (e.g., healthcare, education). Once in the country, you can work part-time to cover living expenses.
3. Pacific-Specific Work Programs
Papua New Guineans have access to programs tailored for Pacific Islanders:
• Australia:
• Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme: Offers short-term and long-term work opportunities in Australia across industries like agriculture, hospitality, and aged care.
• Fees are generally covered by the employer or deducted from wages over time.
• New Zealand:
• Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme: Short-term agricultural work with the possibility of extending contracts or transitioning to permanent residency.
These programs are direct and cost-efficient, requiring minimal upfront payments.
4. Family or Ancestry-Based Visa Options
• Australia:
• Apply for a Family Sponsored Visa if you have immediate family members (spouse, parent, or sibling) who are Australian citizens or permanent residents.
• New Zealand:
• Apply for a Family Category Visa if you have relatives who can sponsor your residency.
For those with ancestral ties (especially to Torres Strait Islanders), certain special residency rights may apply.
5. Seek Employer-Driven Opportunities
Employers in Australia and New Zealand often hire directly from Papua New Guinea in high-demand industries, especially for skilled and semi-skilled roles. Start by:
• Networking through professional organizations or job fairs.
• Applying to international companies with offices in PNG that may offer job transfers.
Key Tips for Cost Efficiency:
• Prepare in PNG: Gain qualifications, experience, and skills that are recognized internationally to minimize costs for assessments or bridging programs.
• Use Free Application Channels: Many migration or job applications can be completed online at no cost (e.g., through government immigration websites).
• Leverage Community Networks: Connect with PNG nationals already in Australia or New Zealand for advice and support.
