The Challenging Journey of Skilled Migrants in Australia

Introduction to the Struggles of Skilled Migrants

Unless you have personally experienced the insurmountable barriers that skilled migrants face in Australia, you might not fully understand the difficulties involved in finding employment that aligns with one's professional background. Stories abound about taxi drivers, Uber operators, doctors, lawyers, and engineers who are compelled to use their valuable expertise to drive or find other low-skilled jobs simply to support their families.

The Difficult Reality of Migrant Jobs

Skilled migrants often encounter the frustrating reality where their extensive training and qualifications are deemed irrelevant or insufficient. This is exemplified by the experience of people who find job postings at companies like Starbucks stating that they are overqualified for the positions. The struggle to find a job that matches one's professional background can be particularly disheartening, especially when the person has invested years in acquiring specialized knowledge and skills.

The Hidden Barriers to Employment

The situation is made worse by the complex and ever-changing processes involved in acquiring residency and employment in Australia. English-speaking migrants, for instance, may find themselves continually behind due to the 'process' associated with settling in the country. Procedures for residency are frequently altered, and the costs can be exorbitant, further complicating the journey.

Personal Insights from a Former Migrant

I came to Australia as a senior expatriate with a wonderful job, only for the entire operation to shut down. My efforts to find comparable employment in Australia fell flat, and I couldn't afford to live on the income from a taxi driving job or bagging groceries. I had no choice but to secure positions that required 'Asia experience,' despite being white and being deemed unattractive by many employers. However, I persisted in my pursuit, eventually acquiring some experience and transitioning to a career in Information Technology (IT).

My journey involved a steep learning curve, including working for free for nine months to gain software development skills, which eventually led to a good job in the Asia-Pacific region, based in Sydney. In the following two decades, I struggled to keep any job, as employers constantly wanted us to return to Singapore. This is a common struggle for skilled migrants over the age of 30, as the job market in Australia is unlikely to offer the same opportunities.

The Dark Side of Skilled Migration

Skilled migration carries a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides individuals with the opportunity to gain new experiences and perspectives, but on the other hand, it often leaves them feeling disempowered and undervalued. Many skilled migrants experience a sense of disappointment and frustration, as their professional aspirations are thwarted.

Empathy and Support for Skilled Migrants

While some Australians may mock the experiences of skilled migrants, it is crucial to recognize the immense challenges they face. Many migrants not only face the difficulty of finding suitable employment but also experience homesickness, culture shock, and isolation. It is important to extend empathy and support to these individuals, recognizing their contributions to the Australian workforce.

Conclusion

The experiences of skilled migrants in Australia highlight the importance of understanding and supporting those who have made immense sacrifices to contribute to our society. While the journey can be harsh, it is essential to acknowledge the barriers they face and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

I extol the courage of those who have made it in Australia. Well done, you have persevered on your own.