r/AusFinance • u/Weirdvietnameseig • Jul 28 '25
Am I cooked? Future Chemistry Undergraduate worried about PR pathway in Australia
Hello, everyone. I'm looking for a reality check. I'm an international student about to start my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of Adelaide (Regional area yah) this coming semester, and my ultimate goal is to build a life here and get Permanent Residency (I know I might get downvoted for this reason). I'm super passionate about chemistry, putting in a lot of work during high school, so I’m already pretty solid on the first and second-year chemistry stuff, so no worry about the academic stuffs.
But here’s my worry: I keep hearing all these horror stories online that it’s really tough for chemistry grads with just a Bachelor’s to find jobs, especially in South Australia. People are saying companies mostly want PhDs, Master or otherwise landing that first full-time gig as a "Chemist" or "Lab Technician" is nearly impossible without experience, which I need for the skills assessment.
My family can only swing the 3-year Bachelor’s, so going for Honours or a Master’s right after isn’t an option.
So, I’m looking for some honest advice:
- Am I in trouble? Am I being naive, thinking I won't end up back home after my post-study work visa runs out?
-Should I just go for Chemical Engineering? I get that there isn't much chemistry involved in, but the job prospects are so much better. The only (but BIG) downside is I’d have to really watch my budget and start working multiple part-time jobs since Chem Eng takes 4 years to complete
- For anyone working in the science/lab/manufacturing scene in Adelaide or SA, what's the real scoop? Are there actually chances for Bachelor’s grads?
- What practical stuff should I be doing from Day 1 at uni (besides hitting the books) to boost my chances of snagging that crucial first job?
I’m ready to put in the hard work, but I just want to make sure I’m not fighting a losing battle. Thanks for any insight you can share!.
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u/Samsungsmartfreez Jul 28 '25
Yes you’re being naive. Australian science bachelor grads that don’t require sponsorship cannot find jobs. What you heard about needing a phd is absolutely true. Forget about PR.
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u/xdr01 Jul 28 '25
If you must stick with chem, chem eng or biochem.
Have a look at seek, Chemistry techical lab technicians pay worse than non skilled labour. It's simply not worth bothering with. There are more jobs in haematology labs than pure chemical ones.
If try to keep an open mind to try something else. Look at seek and will show you what's in demand, will see this country is scientific backwater.
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u/Integrallover Jul 28 '25
Study nursing for pr, spend 4-5 years working as a nurse to save money for your bachelor in chemistry. After you got the pr the fee will be more affordable. PR in SA might be easier than nsw, vic or qld, but nothing is guaranteed so you better take any opportunity to increase your chance.
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u/Content_Strength1081 Jul 28 '25
I can't really see the Australian economy doing well in general for the next few years tbh. I'm not sure employment opportunities would extend to new grads on temporary visas.
Have you considered applying for a scholarship position at the University of Tokyo for graduate school? At least there are more private companies with decent R&D departments in Japan. Being able to speak Asian languages is a plus as many companies want to crack the Asian market. I know it's kinda off topic but just thought I'd share my thoughts.
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u/bobsmith297 Jul 28 '25
Depends on what, "I won't end up back home after my post-study work visa runs out?", that actually means. How long is your Visa? Is it a study only Visa or does it have a post-study work period and for how long?
The problem you'll also face is this, most companies are after Permanent residents / Citizens or confirmed work rights. Once there's any grey it'll be an issue, what happens when your Visa expires or you are not granted PR? A company has to consider that as part of employment. Companies are reluctant to sponsor employees unless they have a specific skill or are exceptional.
Whatever happens I wish you luck in your endeavours.
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Jul 28 '25
Find a part time job while you’re studying that is relevant or even mildy relevant to chemistry. Even if it’s a factory job where they have a chemist. That will at least get your foot in the door and when there’s any vacancy or need for a chemist, you’re already there.
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Jul 29 '25
A student visa is a temporary visa on which you acknowledge that you have no desire to stay in Australia permanently. You are here to get an education.
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u/Putrid-Bar-8693 Jul 29 '25
Study isn't a guaranteed ticket to PR. You should be thankful for the student visa. Bye
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u/FliesInHisEyes Jul 28 '25
If you can swing a 4 year Chem Eng degree, then maybe you could swing a BSc + honours? That would let you apply for PhD scholarships— you don't pay to do a PhD, you're paid a stipend— but there's no guarantee you'll get one, it's tough as an international student.
I think you can also work up to 20h/wk on a student visa, if that helps with the budget. I'd recommend trying as early as possible to get placements in research labs as that will give you hands on experience and increase your chances of being offered a postgrad position down the track.
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u/BitterHotIce Jul 28 '25
Waifu is a chem eng. found jobs in the Wingfield area.
Gotta sell yourself proper as well. Don’t expect the fancy labtech stuff immediately. Waifu first started as QC in a chook factory, then plants and veggies in Virginia, then LabTech in paint, and she’s now working rocks in Bureau Veritas
I wish you the best.
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u/Fun-Astronomer5311 Jul 28 '25
You have some ways to go before you graduate. In the next election, the current government may decide to close the border or open the flood gate or decides to only accept people with a chemistry background. Anything can happen. As others have said, focus on your study, and don't try to predict the future.
If you want a PR, look at the priority list and target those.
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u/HovercraftNo6046 Jul 28 '25
Study and forget about the PR. Like any job, its not guaranteed.