Steps and Requirements for Over $60,000 Jobs to work in Australia 2025/2026

If you’re aiming to land a job overseas with solid pay, Australia probably already ranks high on your radar. And why not? It offers a stable economy, world-class healthcare, a great lifestyle, and a friendly work environment. But let’s cut to the chase: what makes Australia such a hotspot for high-paying jobs in 2025 and 2026?

The demand for skilled professionals isn’t going away anytime soon. From bustling cities like Sydney and Melbourne to the growing tech hubs in Brisbane and Perth, industries are actively scouting for talent. And yes, many of these roles come with paychecks comfortably north of $60,000 a year.

What Jobs Pay Over $60,000 in Australia?

Not sure if your career path fits into the high-paying mold? Here’s a snapshot of some roles that regularly pull in over $60k annually:

• Registered Nurses: Depending on experience and location, salaries range between $75,000–$95,000.
• Software Developers & IT Professionals: Think cybersecurity, data science, or system analysts. Salaries here hover between $80,000–$120,000.
• Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical): Typically starting from $85,000.
• Licensed Electricians & Construction Managers: Between $70,000–$130,000, depending on the scale and complexity of projects.
• Finance Analysts, Auditors & Accountants: Paychecks run from $65,000 to well over $90,000.
• Teachers (especially in science and math): Salaries often exceed $65,000.

If you’re skilled, qualified, and ready to leap, there’s likely a position in Australia with your name on it.

Who Is Eligible to Work in Australia?

If you’re thinking about moving to Australia for work, you’ll need to tick a few boxes:

• Aged between 18 and 45
• Proficient in English (IELTS 6.0+ or equivalent in PTE, TOEFL)
• Your job must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
• Pass medical and police background checks
• Fulfill visa-specific criteria

The SOL gets updated frequently to reflect the country’s labor needs. So, if your profession is listed, you’ve already cleared one of the biggest hurdles.

Visa Options to Work in Australia in 2025/2026

Let’s break down your top visa options if you’re eyeing a salary over $60k:

1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

Perfect if you already have a job offer. Your employer sponsors you for up to 4 years. Just make sure your role is on the SOL, and you meet the experience and qualification requirements.

2. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

You don’t need an employer or state to back you up here. It’s a points-tested visa that grants permanent residency. If your occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), this is gold.

3. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Similar to the 189, but this one requires state or territory nomination. It’s great if your skills match a specific region’s shortage.

4. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

Already got an employer who wants to keep you around for the long haul? This permanent visa is for those with a job offer and at least three years of relevant experience.

Steps to Apply for a Work Visa in Australia

Let’s walk through the roadmap step-by-step:

Step 1: Check the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)

Look for your profession on either the MLTSSL or the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). This is non-negotiable. If it’s not there, your visa application won’t go far.

Step 2: Complete a Skills Assessment

Each job has its assessment authority:

• Engineers: Engineers Australia
• IT Professionals: Australian Computer Society (ACS)
• Nurses: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

They’ll review your qualifications and work experience to confirm they align with Aussie standards.

Step 3: Prove Your English Skills

This is mandatory. Tests like IELTS (minimum 6.0 in each band), PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT are accepted. Some high-demand jobs or visa types might require higher scores.

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Through the SkillSelect platform, tell the government why you should be invited. This is where your points—based on age, skills, experience, and education—come into play.

Step 5: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your profile shines bright, you’ll receive an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs. That’s your cue to get moving.

Step 6: Lodge the Visa Application

Submit your application online with supporting documents:

• Passport
• Educational certificates
• Employment records
• Police clearance
• Health check report
• English test scores

Some visas might also ask for proof of funds.

Step 7: Visa Processing and Outcome

Processing times vary. Temporary work visas usually take a few months. Skilled migration visas might take a bit longer. Stay updated via your ImmiAccount.

Taxation and Salary Deductions in Australia

Yes, Aussie salaries are generous—but the taxman takes his share. Here’s how it breaks down for the 2025/2026 tax year:

• First AUD 18,200: Tax-free
• AUD 18,201–45,000: 19%
• AUD 45,001–120,000: 32.5%
• Above AUD 120,000: Higher tiered rates apply

On top of income tax, expect deductions for Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system) and possibly superannuation (retirement fund contributions).

Tips to Boost Your Success

• Start Early: Paperwork and assessments take time. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Score High on Points: Improve English scores, gain more work experience, or pursue higher qualifications to boost your points tally.
• Tailor Your Resume to Aussie Standards: Highlight relevant experience and use clear formatting.
• Get Help if Needed: Migration agents can help navigate complex cases.

Conclusion

Working in Australia can be more than a career move—it can be a life upgrade. With the right approach, a strong application, and a bit of planning, that $60,000+ job could be well within your reach. Whether you’re a nurse, engineer, IT guru, or tradesperson, Australia offers opportunities that reward both skill and determination. Just follow the steps, stay informed, and keep your documents in order. Your Aussie dream job is out there—go get it.

FAQs

1. Do I need a job offer before applying for a visa?
Not always. Some visas, like the Subclass 189, don’t require a job offer. Others, like the 482 or 186, do.

2. Can I bring my family on a work visa?
Yes, most skilled visas allow you to include dependents. They may also be eligible to work or study.

3. How long does it take to get a work visa?
It depends on the visa type. Temporary visas can take a few months, while permanent skilled visas might take longer due to assessments.

4. What’s the minimum English test score required?
Most visas require at least IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent), but some occupations or visa types may demand higher scores.

5. Can I switch employers on a work visa?
For some visas like the 482, you can switch employers, but your new employer must also be an approved sponsor and nominate your role.