New job portal targeting international students to address staff shortages in Cairns

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An initiative that links returning international students with potential employers in the Cairns region has been described as a practical measure to help both businesses struggling to find staff and new residents.

Developed by Study Cairns, the portal will go live this week on the Cairns Student Hub website.

Local employers can apply to have their jobs listed and after a vetting process to ensure correct employment legislation is followed, vacancies are uploaded.

Study Cairns President Janine Bowmaker said links are then sent out through social media channels to inform students about the new opportunities.

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“While it seems obvious that they could use the normal employment websites to apply for jobs, it’s not that easy when English is your second language," she said.

“If you’ve just arrived in Australia and don’t understand some of the basic employment language, it can be daunting even just submitting a resume.

“There are also additional issues with international students not knowing what their rights are, and ensuring they retain their obligations with their visa status.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said the tourism industry has been anxiously awaiting the return of international students to help fill workplace gaps.

“We welcome the Study Cairns job portal to assist in matching employers with job seekers and look forward to its contribution in easing workforce pressures,” he said.

The project received $5,000 in funding through a Queensland Government Business Basics Grant.

State Member for Cairns Michael Healy said he was more than happy to support it.

“The Cairns Student Hub Job Portal ticks a lot of boxes to help strengthen businesses in our region,” he said.

“It provides a direct link between employers who are keen to employ international students and students looking for work.

“It decreases the staff shortage issue.

“It provides students with more money to spend in the region, and it creates a great experience for students by making sure that they are paired with employers who understand they are restricted in what they can do based on study and visa requirements.”

Businesses can apply for a listing directly through the Cairns Student Hub website.