Darwin international students get taste for job industries at career expo

The NT government has organised an expo aimed to benefit both local employers and the Territory’s international student community.

Hundreds of international students lining up to make the most of workshop and networking opportunities.

Hundreds of international students have been head hunted by potential Territory-based employers from a variety of industries as part of a massive careers expo.

Last week, more than 200 international students attended the 2024 Study NT Careers and Jobs Expo in Darwin, which provided international students the opportunity to connect with prospective employers and also enjoy free workshops to upskill and land their dream job.

The experience certainly impressed student Sandhya Sigel, who said she was given valuable advice on how to land a job.

“Speaking to the employers at the Study NT Career and Jobs Expo helped me understand where my studies could take me,” she said.

“They also helped me understand what other criteria I need to work in that industry, like a working with children card and NDIS clearance to work in the disability sector.”

The Expo was organised by the NT Government as the Lawler administration works to drive international student numbers to 10,000. Picture: Supplied.

Organised by the NT government, Minister for Skills, Training and International Education Joel Bowden said the event was aimed to show international students a career in the Territory was possible.

“The Northern Territory offers an abundance of opportunities for international students with our welcoming community and vast employment options,” he said.

“The 2024 Study NT Careers and Jobs Expo gives international students the chance to network with employers and discover job and internship opportunities to launch a rewarding career here in the Northern Territory.”

Workshops included resume writing and interview skills, and a few handy tips on how to optimise their LinkedIn profile.

Mr Bowden said international students were important contributors to the Territory.

“International students make a valuable contribution to our society, strengthening cultural, social and economic ties and offering diversity to the community and skills to the workforce.”

Local employers had the opportunity to engage potential recruits. Picture: Supplied.

The NT government aims to have 10,000 international students by 2030 – a big leap from the current crop of 5600.

Somerville manager Fiona Kirk said her team rated international students highly.

“We already recruit a number of international students and they’re a valued part of the Somerville family with a previous student who was a disability support worker recently securing a role in our finance team, using their accounting studies,” she said.

“We are proud to say we provide all our employees with training and support on commencement and throughout their employment.”

Hospitality NT chief executive Alex Bruce said international students were an “integral part” of his industry’s workforce.

“Hospitality NT have attended the Study NT Career and Jobs Expo for many years and have seen them go from strength to strength,” he said.

“International students are an integral part of our workforce and community – we assist them to obtain their Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate so they can work in our industry.”

For more information on studying in the Territory, visit studynt.nt.gov.au