Many international talent and visa holders are surprised to learn that they are eligible for employment within the Victorian Public Service (VPS). While citizenship is required for certain high-security roles, the vast majority of government positions are open to anyone with a valid visa that includes work rights.

Rather than specific agencies, the Victorian government operates under a unified recruitment portal, Careers.vic.gov.au. However, certain departments and programs are more proactive in engaging with diverse talent pools, including international migrants and students.

1. Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR)

As the department responsible for economic development and skilled migration, DJSIR often leads the charge in inclusive hiring.

• Why they are talent-friendly: They manage employment programs like the Victorian Government Graduate Program and various internships that are specifically designed to build a diverse pipeline of talent. Their focus on industry growth means they are often looking for the specialized skills that international professionals bring.

2. Department of Transport and Planning (DTP)

Infrastructure is a massive priority for the Victorian government, and the demand for civil engineering, project management, and planning expertise is constant.

• Why they are talent-friendly: This department frequently works with large-scale projects that require a surge in skilled labor. They are highly accustomed to hiring on fixed-term contracts to meet project deadlines, making them a primary employer for visa holders whose work rights are tied to a specific duration.

3. Department of Health

The healthcare sector in Victoria is a massive employer, and the Department of Health oversees a wide range of roles from policy and administrative support to specialized health planning.

• Why they are talent-friendly: Given the constant demand for health professionals, they have highly established processes for verifying overseas qualifications and supporting international talent transitions.

4. Department of Education

The education sector requires diverse staff for both school support and corporate policy roles within the department.

• Why they are talent-friendly: They prioritize hiring people who can represent the diverse communities they serve. If you have a background in community engagement, linguistics, or administration, this department often values international perspectives.

5. Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH)

DFFH is centered on community services, which require deep empathy and cross-cultural communication skills.

• Why they are talent-friendly: They are one of the most vocal advocates for inclusive hiring. Their policy explicitly welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, and they frequently run entry-level programs that are ideal for those starting their careers in Australia.

Strategic Advice for Visa Holders

• Focus on Fixed-Term Contracts: As a visa holder, you are generally ineligible for “ongoing” (permanent) roles because your work rights may be subject to visa expiry. When searching on the Victorian Government careers portal, filter your search by “fixed-term” or “temporary” to see positions that align with your current visa duration.
• The “Graduate” Advantage: If you are a recent international graduate, the Victorian Government Graduate Program is your best entry point. It is a structured, 12-month program that offers three rotations across different departments, providing a massive networking boost.
• Use the “Careers Vic” Portal: Do not apply to departments individually. The centralized portal (careers.vic.gov.au) is where all public sector roles are advertised. Ensure your profile clearly indicates your visa status and work rights.
• Mention Your Work Rights: In your cover letter, clearly state that you have “full work rights” or mention the specific visa subclass you hold. This reassures recruiters that they do not need to worry about the legalities of hiring you.