A communications specialist with 10 years of experience describes the challenges of finding employment in Australia after moving for marriage, highlighting the common issue of 'underutilization' where migrants are forced to work below their skill level due to employers' demand for local experience.
The experience highlights a systemic challenge faced by skilled migrants globally, where a lack of local experience can hinder career progression and lead to underutilization of talent, impacting both individual well-being and national economic potential.
Rakshitha Arni Ravishankar, a communications specialist with a decade of experience in India, has found her job search in Australia to be unexpectedly challenging after moving to Melbourne in January to be with her husband. Despite holding a visa with full work rights, Ravishankar has encountered a consistent barrier: job listings requiring local Australian experience, which she cannot gain without first securing employment.
This situation, termed 'underutilization,' is a significant issue for migrants in Australia. A 2024 report by Deloitte Access Economics found that nearly half of the country's migrants work below their skill level, a structural problem stemming from employers' preference for local experience. Ravishankar, who has a background in writing, editing, and communications, including work with Harvard Business Review and climate policy think tanks, feels like she has to start her career over at age 31.
The professional mismatch has also led to financial dependence on her husband, contributing to feelings of isolation. Ravishankar notes that work provides structure and identity, and its absence has been disorienting. She is actively networking and seeking advice from professionals in Australia, viewing these connections as crucial for rebuilding confidence and understanding the local professional culture.
While the job search continues, Ravishankar is also focusing on settling into her new life in Melbourne, building relationships and exploring her surroundings. She emphasizes the need for patience and humility in navigating this career transition.