Working in Australia for Pakistanis 2026
Australia is a top destination for Pakistani professionals and workers. This guide covers the job market, visa requirements, salary expectations, and practical information for Pakistanis seeking employment in Australia.
Key Facts
100K+
Pakistani Australians
Pakistani Australians
Points-Based
Skilled migration
Skilled migration
IELTS 6.0+
English requirement
English requirement
6-12 months
Visa processing
Visa processing
Work Visa Requirements
Australia offers structured immigration pathways for skilled Pakistani workers through its points-based system and employer sponsorship.
- Skilled Independent visa (189): Points-based, no employer sponsorship needed. Requires occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
- Skilled Nominated visa (190): State-nominated, extra 5 points. Each state has its own occupation list.
- Employer-sponsored (482): Temporary Skill Shortage visa. Employer must sponsor for an occupation on the skills list.
- IELTS requirement: Minimum IELTS 6.0 (competent English) for most visa categories. Higher scores earn more points.
- Skills assessment: Your qualifications must be assessed by the relevant Australian authority (e.g., Engineers Australia, ACS for IT)
Top Industries & Salary Guide
Top industries for Pakistanis in Australia:
- IT/Technology: Strong demand in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane tech sectors
- Healthcare: Critical shortage of nurses and aged care workers
- Engineering: Mining, civil, and mechanical engineering roles
- Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and carpenters highly sought after
| Role | Monthly Salary | Demand Level |
|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | AUD $7,000-$12,000 | Very High |
| Registered Nurse | AUD $5,500-$8,000 | Very High |
| Civil Engineer | AUD $6,000-$9,500 | High |
| Accountant | AUD $5,000-$8,000 | High |
| Electrician | AUD $5,000-$7,500 | Very High |
| Chef/Cook | AUD $4,000-$6,000 | High |
| Teacher | AUD $5,500-$8,500 | Moderate |
Pakistani Community in Australia
Australia has over 100,000 Pakistani residents, concentrated in major cities:
- Sydney: Largest community, especially Western Sydney (Auburn, Lakemba)
- Melbourne: Growing community in suburbs like Dandenong and Broadmeadows
- Brisbane: Smaller but growing Pakistani community
- Adelaide: Affordable city attracting Pakistani families
Australia allows dual nationality with Pakistan.
How to Find a Job
- Job portals: Register on local job websites and LinkedIn
- Recruitment agencies: Use BE&OE-licensed agencies in Pakistan
- Network: Connect with the Pakistani diaspora through community organisations
- Embassy resources: Check the Pakistan embassy in Australia for job fairs and community events
- Direct applications: Apply directly to companies through their career pages