StudyAdelaide and regional development Australia Eyre Peninsula play matchmaker as local employers meet international students to address the region’s skill shortage and long-term job vacancies.
StudyAdelaide and Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula (RDAEP) have partnered with Workforce Australia North West Country and the Cities of Port Lincoln and Whyalla to introduce international students to prospective employers on the Eyre Peninsula.
Around 50 international students and graduates with diverse qualifications in health, engineering, agribusiness, IT, and hospitality, visited the region from the 17-19 April on the Eyre Peninsula Careers Tour.
The students met with representatives from local industries including hospitals, nursing homes, regional health networks, engineering firms, hotels, and local government to discuss employment opportunities, living and working in the region.
The region is facing significant skills shortages. But the good news is that the latest research from StudyAdelaide indicates that 68 per cent of international students would like to live and work in South Australia after completing their studies, with half of those willing to explore a move to regional South Australia.
StudyAdelaide Chief Executive Jane Johnston said this was reflected in the overwhelming interest in the tour by both students and employers.
“More than 180 students registered an interest in the Eyre Peninsula visit, and we have a wait list for future tours to the Eyre Peninsula and other regions,” Ms Johnston said.
RDAEP CEO Ryan Viney said the team was excited to be working with StudyAdelaide to facilitate the connection between prospective newcomers to the region and local employers.
“The Eyre Peninsula is currently experiencing great demand for skilled and qualified workers in a range of industries region-wide,” said Mr Viney.
“For example, the Eyre Peninsula has been facing a prolonged healthcare crisis and to have 19 graduates from a range of allied health services touring the Eyre Peninsula, including 3 doctors, 5 nurses and other services including radiography, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, nutrition and community services, to see the opportunities and experience the EP lifestyle style firsthand is really positive” said RDAEP CEO Ryan Viney.
“By partnering with StudyAdelaide and the local councils, we can provide students with information about the career and lifestyle opportunities that our region offers, which will hopefully lead them to consider working and living here permanently,” Mr Viney said.
“It’s a win-win all round. International students gain employment – often in sectors that would otherwise have skills shortages – companies can grow their businesses, and locals can welcome young professionals into their communities,” said Ms Johnston.
The students travelled by bus to the region where they were welcomed by RDAEP and local councils and briefed by community leaders on job opportunities and the benefits of living and working in each community. They were also delighted to meet former international students who are enjoying career success and now proudly call the region home.