“With your help, we have placed several interns in our business and without exception have received immeasurable value from their contribution, ideas and eagerness to learn as much as possible. We certainly recommend the program and have plans to take further interns.” (LXM Consulting)

"The internship program implemented and managed by Professional Pathways Australia provides great value both to the intern as well as the company participating. The Australian Jockey Club has developed numerous interns providing them with the necessary tools and industry experience to benefit their future employers.” (Australian Jockey Club)

FAQs

What is an internship?

‘Internship’ is the term commonly used in Europe and USA; it is synonymous with ‘work experience’. Professional Pathways Australia offers a number of internship based programs designed to cater for the needs of individuals at various stages of their career development. We focus on professional placements for international undergraduates, recent graduates and post graduates who have completed their studies overseas or in Australia. All internships organised through Professional Pathways Australia are designed to enhance the intern’s international experience as well as an exchange of international business practices between the host company and the intern.

Does the Host Company need to cover interns for Workers Compensation?

No. Our internships are unpaid and therefore do not require cover of this type. Only in the instance where an internship is paid do they require Workers’ Compensation cover.

Who covers the interns for Public Liability Insurance?

All our interns are covered by Professional Pathways Australia’s Public Liability insurance policy. A Public Liability insurance policy would normally cover the holder in the event of personal injury, death or any accidents by third parties. We are happy to provide proof of the policy prior to the intern’s start date.

What if the Host Company has any concerns about the intern’s performance and behaviour?

The supervisor should always raise such concerns directly with the intern, as would be the case under normal performance management procedures. Professional Pathways Australia is always willing to assist in resolving such issues.

What happens if the Host Company believes the intern is unable to carry out their internship with us?

The Host Company should contact Professional Pathways Australia as soon as possible with any concerns regarding the intern or the internship. Professional Pathways Australia monitors the progress of the internship from start to finish. We counsel the intern throughout the entire time and manage concerns when, and if, any arise.   The Host Company is under no obligation to keep the intern if they believe the intern is negligent and not abiding by company terms and conditions.

What other support does Professional Pathways Australia offer for interns?

Professional Pathways Australia has dedicated staff members in Sydney and Melbourne who support interns by providing:

  • a comprehensive orientation upon arrival that includes familiarisation with Australia, its culture and norms
  • accommodation and airport transfers
  • weekly social activities and discounted weekend trips
  • weekly communication via an eNewsletter
  • a specialist staff member who is assigned to each intern
  • qualified staff to counsel and monitor the internship progress and handle any unforeseen issues  or problems
  • General advice with regards to taxation matters, opening bank accounts etc.

Do I need to be concerned about visas for my intern?

We have an excellent working relationship with, and are in regular contact with, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) in Australia. Our staff members are familiar with the latest changes to immigration laws that may affect the intern’s stay in Australia. Although we cannot offer migration advice, we communicate with interns regarding their visa applications and each intern is screened to ensure compliance with relevant visa restrictions. Professional Pathways Australia is endorsed by DIAC to arrange a Special Program (416) visa on which students can undertake internships. Please note that under government regulations, Professional Pathways Australia cannot give migration advice but is able to provide clerical assistance, receiving and forwarding communications from and to DIAC.

Email a friend…Close this form

* Mandatory fields