FAQ
What is a PPA Gap Year Internship Program?
A PPA Gap Year Internship is a period of unpaid work experience for high school leavers (o equivalent) who are looking to gain some practical workplace knowledge of the Australian business environment.
Why should I use Professional Pathways Australia?
Through years of experience, Professional Pathways Australia (PPA) has developed a network of contacts in host companies throughout Sydney and Melbourne. Finding relevant work experience in a foreign country can be daunting and difficult, particularly if you have not had any post-secondary studies or previous work experience. We will work with you to ensure that you get the most from your internship. Our consultants also provide the support and assistance necessary to help you get by in a foreign country.
What is the difference between a gap year internship and a standard internship?
The standard internship program is for students and graduates with at least one year of tertiary study in their chosen field. It is expected that students taking the standard internship program have skills and knowledge in their field of study and thus they are assigned more complicated tasks and projects. Gap year internships are designed for high school graduates who have no specialised skill set but would like to gain some entry level work experience in Australia.
Are the internships paid?
The internships are unpaid. Internships are primarily designed for you to gain work experience in a certain field within the Australian work environment.
Who can participate in the Gap Year Internship Program?
The Gap Year Internship Program is designed for students who have completed high school (or equivalent) and have not yet started college or university.
What industries can I do an internship in?
Gap year interns have the choice of completing their internships in the Business, Marketing, Travel &Tourism, Event Management, or Not-For-Profit sectors.
I am applying for a university that requires work experience, can I use the internship?
Yes, providing that the university will accept experience in one of our core industries. Just advise us of your specific requirements when you apply and we will ensure that the necessary formal components, such as paperwork and details, are met.
What kind of companies do you work with?
We work with a whole range of companies from boutique firms to those with a strong international presence. We also partner with many of Australia’s universities, government departments, research institutes, along with international and local charities.
What kind of work can I expect to do?
Wherever possible we tailor the internship program to suit your needs. We aim to provide you with the opportunity to be involved in tasks and projects that relate to your experience and career aspirations. Gap Year candidates will not have post secondary studies and little relevant work experience, so the internship placements will be more general and entry level in nature. You will not be expected to perform high level or managerial tasks.
How long should I do my internship for and what are the hours?
A gap year internship can range from four to twelve weeks. Your hours will generally be full time, however part time internships can be arranged in some situations. If you must attend the internship for longer than twelve weeks in order to apply for university, contact our office to discuss the options.
Will I have a contact person throughout my internship?
Yes. You will be assigned a supervisor at your work place. In addition, Professional Pathways Australia will provide you with a Placement Consultant who you can access throughout the length of your internship for assistance and support. We visit all of our interns and make regular contact with you and your work supervisor throughout the placement.
Which visa do I need for an internship?
Various countries have different visa agreements with Australia. To undertake a PPA Gap Year Internship Program you will need to be eligible for a Working Holiday or Work and Holiday visa. Professional Pathways Australia is not a migration agent so we are unable to provide specific visa advice, however can direct you to the relevant source of information.
What language requirements are needed for a successful internship placement?
English language proficiency is necessary if you are to gain the maximum benefit from your internship. Good communication skills will increase your opportunities to take on more complex work experience placements. Prior to your departure we will work with you to determine your workplace readiness in relation to language needs and recommend the type of language program you may need. In some instances we have found that interns only require a program covering an introduction to industry specific terminology and workplace culture whereas for others it has been necessary to undertake General English prior to the commencement of the internship. Professional Pathways Australia has the capacity to arrange short or long term language study that will cater for your specific needs and prepare you for your Australian workplace experience.
What will happen if I don’t like my internship?
If you believe your internship is unsatisfactory, Professional Pathways Australia staff will intervene to determine what the problem is and correct it where possible. We maintain excellent relationships with each of our host companies which enable us to negotiate on an intern’s behalf.
How long does it take to organise the internship?
Professional Pathways Australia will have a suitable internship confirmed for you within ten weeks of your application. At that point you will receive a full profile of your host company and a detailed outline of the position and responsibilities in which you will be engage.