Settlement Guide: 5 barriers for young migrants finding work

The national unemployment rate for 15 to 24 year olds is currently 12.2 per cent. Finding a job can be rather challenging, especially for young people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. They face additional disadvantages in terms of earning and occupational attainment. So, what are the main barriers to multicultural youth employment?

migrant job search AAP-1

AP Photo/Michael Dwyer Source: AAP

Low levels of English proficiency.

interview public domain pixabay
interview public domain pixabay Source: Public Domain

2. Experience discrimination in looking for work and in interview and selection processes.

jobs by public domain pixabay
jobs by public domain pixabay Source: Public Domain

3. Lack of relevant occupational skills or evidence of past experience.

This includes limited work experience and lack of recognition of prior learning and qualifications.

non recognised degree by Abir Nilosey public domain
non recognised degree by Abir Nilosey public domain Source: Public Domain

4. Limited knowledge around Australian systems, workplace culture and how to get a job.

employment image by AAP-1
Gemployment image by AAP-1 Source: AAP

5. Lack of social networks

FEATURE STORY job seekers_ courtesy of MYAN.org
Source: MYAN.org

The Victorian Government’s Youth Central website contains jobs and career advice including resume writing skills and how to apply for jobs.

The NSW Government’s Family and Community Services website includes youth jobs and career links.

The myfuture website is a job search portal providing advice on occupations, courses, industries and companies.

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1 min read
Published 15 April 2016 6:56pm
Updated 12 August 2022 4:01pm
By Abdullah Alikhil, Ildiko Dauda

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