When it comes to landing a job, a clear understanding of professional standards and workplace etiquette is vital. In Australia, interviews often focus on a mix of technical skills and cultural fit, with employers preferring candidates who can hit the ground running.
We understand that preparing for a job interview in a new country can feel scary, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local expectations and work culture. That’s why we at Remitly have put together these tips and strategies to help you prepare with confidence and ease.
Getting to know the Australian job market
The labour market in Australia is broad and well-developed, with opportunities in numerous industries. The biggest employers include government, healthcare, education, construction, and welfare. Some sectors, like aged care and IT, are growing faster and need skilled workers, while agriculture and hospitality often have a steady demand for employees.
Australia’s work culture strikes a balance between professionalism and the famous Aussie laid-back lifestyle. This means that employers in Australia don’t just focus on hard skills; they also value teamwork, communication, diversity, and work-life balance.
If you’re new to Australia, your international experience can be a big plus. Whether you speak another language, have worked in different cultures, or bring a fresh way of thinking, these skills can help you stand out.
Researching the company and role
A great way to understand what Australian employers want is to check job sites like Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn. The more you know about a prospective employer, the more confident you’ll feel during your interview. So, start your job interview preparation process way before D-day by gathering as much information as possible about the company and the role.
Visiting the company’s website can help you learn about its mission, values, and any recent updates. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position and align with what the company stands for. Also, check their social media pages to get a feel for their activities and work culture.
Next, review the job description carefully, highlighting key responsibilities and required experience. Think about how your past experiences match up with what the company is looking for.
Doing this research will help you explain why you’re excited about the job and how you can bring value to the company. Plus, it’ll make answering interview questions much easier.
Cultural and professional expectations in Australia
From how to dress and present yourself to the unique quirks of Australian work culture, use these tips to put your best foot forward.
Dressing for your interview
Workplace dress codes in Australia vary from casual to business formal attire. This will depend on the industry, company, and location, especially in the main cities.
You’ll find that it’s not always easy to know what to expect, so consider choosing a neat, professional look, especially for your first interview. Even in relaxed workplaces, it’s usually best to dress more formally if you’re unsure.
Keep in mind that business casual usually means a shirt or blouse, tailored pants, a conservative skirt, and closed-toe shoes. You might consider wearing a suit, blazer, or dress pants with a polished top in more formal situations. But no matter what you wear, make sure your outfit is clean, well-fitted, and wrinkle-free.
Punctuality and professional etiquette
Although Australians take pride in their easygoing attitude in their personal lives, most appreciate punctuality in professional contexts. Being late can be seen as not valuing other people’s time. Try to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for your interview so you have a chance to gather your thoughts, review your notes, and feel relaxed before it starts.
When you greet your interviewer, they usually expect a friendly handshake, direct eye contact, and a smile. Maintain clear and direct communication, but also remain polite and respectful. Keeping a balance between confidence and friendliness will help you make a great first impression.
Types of interviews and what to expect
Job interviews in Australia can be conducted online or in person, depending on the company. Knowing what to expect will help you feel more confident and prepared.
In-person, online, and hybrid interviews
- In-person interviews: The traditional face-to-face job interview, usually held at the company’s office. This gives you a chance to check out the workplace environment and see how well you’d fit in.
- Online interviews: These have recently become common. Some online interview tips include making sure your microphone and camera are working. Also, choose a quiet space to avoid interruptions.
- Hybrid interviews: Some companies choose to combine remote and in-person meetings. You might have your first interview online, then meet in person for the final round.
No matter the format, being on time and well-prepared is key. If it’s an online interview, log in a few minutes early to check your setup. If it’s in person, allow plenty of time to get there by car or public transport.
Competency-based and situational questions
Job interviews in Australia often include competency-based and situational questions to understand how you think.
- Competency-based questions ask about real experiences where you used skills like leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving. For example: “Tell me about a time you led a team through a tight deadline.”
- Behavioural questions focus on how you have handled work experiences in the past, such as, “Tell me about a time you made a mistake and what you learned from it.”
- Situational questions examine how you would handle experiences in your future role. Be ready for questions like, “How would you handle a disagreement with a colleague?”
Your answers will show employers how you solve problems and your attitude towards work.
Tips for preparing your interview
A little preparation can go a long way in helping you stand out from other candidates. Get your resumé and cover letter ready, and spend time practising your answers to common interview questions. Also, prepare some of your own to show potential employers your interest and initiative.
Common interview questions
Every job is different, but some questions tend to come up in most interviews. You might hear things like:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “Why are you interested in this role?”
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
- “Why do you think your skills suit this role?”
- “Can you describe a challenging work situation and how you overcame it?”
How to practice your answers
It’s normal to feel nervous about fielding job interview questions. But once you know which questions to expect, practising your responses in advance can help calm those nerves and build confidence.
- Set up a mock interview: Ask a friend, mentor, or career coach to act as the interviewer. Practising aloud gives you a chance to gain clarity and learn to portray positive body language.
- Use the STAR method: For behavioural questions, structure your answers using the Situation, Task, Action, and Result (STAR) framework to keep your responses clear and focused.
- Record yourself: Making a short video of yourself answering questions is a great way to notice small, distracting habits, like saying “um” or “like” too often or fidgeting.
Preparing questions for the interviewer
A job interview is a two-way street. It isn’t just about answering questions; it’s also your chance to learn more about the job, challenges, and company culture.
At the end of an interview, most hiring managers will ask, “Do you have any questions for us?” This is a great opportunity to show your enthusiasm and ask the interviewer questions such as:
- “What does success look like in this role?”
- “How would you describe the team’s culture?”
- “What are the next steps in the interview process?”
- “How does the organisation support professional development?”
Having a few thoughtful questions ready shows that you’ve done your homework and are serious about the role. Also, there might be certain benefits you’re looking for, or you might want to clarify the number of working days, salary expectations, or if the company offers progressive growth opportunities. Asking questions will help you decide if the job is the right fit for you and your priorities.
Tips for during your interview
When interview day arrives, you’ll probably feel a mix of excitement and nerves. The good news is that with a little preparation, you can walk in feeling confident and ready to set yourself apart.
How to introduce yourself in an interview
The first few moments can set the tone for the rest of the conversation with your potential employer. Make a good first impression with these steps:
- Use a friendly greeting: Smile, make eye contact, and introduce yourself clearly.
- Show appreciation: Thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to discuss the role.
- Give a personal introduction: Spend around one minute sharing your background and skills. You’ll be asked for more details during the interview, so give a quick overview of who you are.
For example, you could say: “Thanks for having me today. I really appreciate the opportunity to be here. My name is Maria, and I have a background in project management within the software industry. Over the past five years, I’ve developed strong skills in organising workflows, coordinating teams, and making sure projects run smoothly from start to finish. I enjoy problem-solving, staying organised, and finding ways to improve efficiency. Outside work, I’m always learning new technologies and collaborating on creative projects that challenge me to think differently.”
Making a lasting impression
A great interview is about building a connection with your interviewer. Making eye contact shows confidence and honesty, while actively listening helps you respond thoughtfully. Giving your full attention and waiting for the interviewer to finish speaking shows respect and engagement.
Enthusiasm can make a big difference, especially when you’re looking to establish yourself in the job market. If you’re excited about the role, don’t be afraid to show it—genuine passion leaves a lasting impression.
How to handle difficult questions
No matter how well you prepare, it’s normal for some interview moments to catch you off guard. For instance, behavioural or situational questions are used to test your on-the-spot thinking. So, take a moment to gather your thoughts before answering.
If you don’t know the answer to something, it’s okay to admit it. Instead of panicking, try saying something like, “I haven’t encountered that situation before, but I’d love to learn more about how to handle it.” Employers appreciate honesty and a willingness to grow, so focus on your ability to learn and adapt.
Tips for after your interview
Taking a few extra steps after your job interview can make you memorable and help you stay ahead of other candidates.
Send a thank you email
It’s polite and professional to send a simple thank-you email within 24 hours. Keep it short and thoughtful by sharing your appreciation for their time and mentioning a quick recap of why you’re excited about the role. Also, add significant points from the conversation that resonated with you.
For example, you could say: “Thank you for taking the time to discuss the project coordinator role with me. I really enjoyed learning about the team’s collaborative approach, and I’d be excited to bring my organisational skills to your upcoming projects.”
Reflecting on your interview
While the end of the interview might feel like a relief, it’s helpful to reflect on how it went. Jot down notes about which answers went smoothly, the questions that challenged you, and areas where you can improve next time.
This quick self-check will help you prepare even better for future interviews as you grow your career in Australia. Whether you get this job or another one, identifying your strengths and any skill gaps you can work on will help boost your confidence.
FAQs
What steps can I take to prepare for a job interview in Australia?
Start by researching the company, understanding the job description, and practising common interview questions. Australian employers value both technical skill and cultural fit, so be ready to share real examples of your experience. If it’s an online interview, check your setup, and if it’s in person, plan your route to arrive on time. A little preparation goes a long way in helping you feel confident and ready.
How can I ace a job interview in Australia?
The keys to success are confidence, preparation, and a positive attitude. Make a great first impression by greeting your interviewer warmly and maintaining good eye contact. Listen carefully, answer questions clearly, and show enthusiasm for the role. Don’t forget to prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer, too; it shows genuine interest and can help you stand out.
What is the STAR method for interviews?
The STAR method helps you structure your answers to behavioural questions by breaking them into four parts: Situation (describe the context), Task (explain your role), Action (share what you did), and Result (highlight the outcome). This keeps your answers clear and focused, making it easier to demonstrate your problem-solving and teamwork skills.