If you’re considering working in Perth, you’ll be pleased to know that the city’s economy is booming. With a domestic output growth well above the national average, Perth is back in the saddle as one of Australia’s economic powerhouses.
The city has welcomed hundreds of thousands of newcomers in the past years, adding fuel to its cosmopolitan atmosphere. The unemployment rate in Perth is just above the national rate but remains relatively low, so with the right skill set, you’ll find plenty of opportunities await in Perth.
Job market in Perth
The job market in Perth is thriving across a range of sectors. Mining remains a cornerstone, contributing to roughly one-third of the city’s total industry output. If you have expertise in professional, scientific and technical services or the financial and insurance services industry, you’re in luck; these sectors are also well-represented in the city.
Emerging industries like renewable energy, technology, and IT services are gaining momentum, reflecting Perth’s shift towards sustainability and digital innovation. The healthcare and social assistance sector is blossoming too, driven by an ageing population and increased demand for medical services.
While traditional media roles may be on the wane, digital marketing and IT opportunities are cropping up as businesses invest more in technology. If your expertise lies in these areas, you may find Perth a land of opportunity.
Finding a job in Perth
Finding a job in Perth can be a breeze if you tap into the right resources. Online platforms like Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn are unrivalled for scouring job listings across many industries.
Don’t overlook local job portals such as JobsWA and Work in WA, which focus specifically on opportunities within Western Australia. These sites can give you the inside track on positions that might not appear elsewhere.
Networking is another ace up your sleeve. Engaging with professional associations, attending industry conferences, and joining Meetup groups can open doors to connections and job leads you won’t find online.
Recruitment agencies can also give you a leg up, and reaching out directly to companies can make a world of difference. Perth businesses are often receptive to proactive candidates.
If you’re coming from abroad, have your ducks in a row regarding local regulations and visa requirements. Having the proper work visas and professional licences will smooth your transition into Perth’s thriving job market.
Useful links
Work culture in Perth
Perth’s work culture embodies the relaxed and egalitarian ethos typical of Australian workplaces. You’ll find that colleagues typically address each other by first names, fostering a friendly and approachable atmosphere. Staff relations are informal and direct, making it easy to strike up conversations and build connections.
After-work social activities are a staple in Perth. Joining your colleagues for office drinks or team outings is a fantastic way to experience the Aussie concept of ‘mateship’ and strengthen professional relationships. Companies here usually have non-hierarchical structures, so don’t be surprised when managers and executives mingle freely with staff during these events.
With a strong emphasis on work-life balance, you’ll also have plenty of time to take advantage of Perth’s stunning beaches and outdoor activities after hours.
What do expats say about working in Perth?
"I think generally it is quite easy to find work in Perth if you have experience in Oil and Gas or Mining. Unemployment is low and salaries are quite high to try to match the cost of living."
Read about Canadian expat Mike's experiences in Perth.
"Here, people value family time and self-care time and tend not to work overtime... I love the fact that people seem to change careers quite easily, sometimes to totally unrelated fields."
Portuguese expat Sami shares her thoughts on living in Perth.
Further reading
►Find out more about the Lifestyle in Perth
►Make sure you have your Visas for Australia and your Work Permits for Australia
Photo credits: Sunrise in Perth by Nathan Hurst on Unsplash
Are you an expat living in Perth?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Perth. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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