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Introducing Work in Progress: Inspiring journeys, expert advice for skilled migrants in Australia

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Work in progress podcast

Work in Progress is an Australia Explained series exploring how skilled migrants are starting new careers in some of Australia’s most in-demand sectors—including early childhood education, engineering, nursing, information and communication technology, aged care and construction.


Hosted by Francesca Valdinoci, 'Work In Progress' series shares inspiring real-life stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help migrants navigate the challenges of finding meaningful work and growing their careers in a new country.

Francesca knows these struggles firsthand. When she first moved to Australia, she assumed finding a job would be easy. After sending out countless résumés with little response, she eventually accepted her only option at the time—working as a barista, despite having no experience. “I’m Italian, how hard could it be?” she recalls. “Well, let me tell you—it was tough!”

Her experience mirrors that of many skilled migrants who arrive in Australia only to discover that breaking into the job market can be far harder than expected.

That’s where Work in Progress steps in. Through powerful storytelling, the podcast highlights the resilience of migrants who pushed through setbacks, found their voice, and rebuilt their lives—all while helping others do the same.

Whether you’re starting fresh in Australia or supporting someone who is, this podcast offers a mix of inspiration and practical guidance for anyone navigating the complex world of work.

Now, let’s get to work.

Disclaimer: This podcast presents individual examples of a migrant’s journey into the six different industries. The information provided is accurate at the time of publishing but may change over time. Individuals interested in working in these industries in Australia should seek tailored advice from official sources, mentioned in each episode.

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Sometimes I feel like, oh, I'm gonna quit. I give up. I'm packed to Vietnam.

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When I moved to Australia, I was sure finding work would be a breeze. I sent out countless resumes and heard nothing back. Eventually, I took the only job I could get, making coffee. I had zero experience, but hey, I'm Italian. How hard could that be? Well, let me tell you, it was tough.

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And I know that I'm not alone. Plenty of migrants hit the same wall.

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Due to my visa restriction, a lot of companies have rejected me. I got a few interviews and then when they learn that I am a student, they will say to me straight away that, oh, I'm sorry, actually we need people who can work full time.

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Work in Progress is an Australia Explained miniseries about skilled migrants starting new careers in Australia.

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Migrants are very able to quickly demonstrate how capable they are, and this often leads to being promoted into a role that's at a more suitable level. So I guess just keeping the options open and casting a wide net.

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You'll hear inspiring real stories, expert advice, and useful tips to help you find work and grow your career.

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I just knew that I'm going to immigrate to Australia, it's gonna be tough, but that's OK. I want to be working as an engineer.

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This is an SBS audio podcast. A work in progress into careers across nursing, early childhood education, engineering, construction, and aged care.

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Tailoring resume is one of the biggest jobs, but when you come here, resume is going to play a significant role.

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Welcome to Work in Progress. It is available on the SBS audio app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also listen on our website, SBS.com.au/Australiaexplained, where you'll find all kinds of useful tips about settling into your new life in Australia, in your preferred language.

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