Interstate and Overseas Qualifications
Many qualifications gained from interstate or overseas tertiary institutions are recognised for teaching in Victorian government schools. Studies must provide a suitable background for the curriculum areas to be taught. It is essential therefore that you also access information on the various specialist area guidelines
However, before commencing employment you must gain teacher registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching.
Teachers registered in New Zealand or by an interstate teacher registration authority may apply for registration in Victoria on the basis of mutual recognition. Detailed information is available http://www.vit.vic.edu.au/content.asp?Document_ID=236
If you have not completed your teacher education qualifications at an Australian institution or in English, you will be required to undertake an English language test. You will not be required to undertake the test until all your qualifications have been assessed and you will then be advised if you need the test by the Victorian Institute of Teaching.
In these instances the institute will accept a certificate or statement in writing of achievement of either of the following:
- International Secondary Language Proficiency Rating (ISLPR) of Level 4 in each of the areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) of Level 7 in each of the areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
- Professional English Assessment for Teachers (PEAT) test at Band A in each of the areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Visa requirements
If you are not an Australian citizen you will require permanent residence status in Australia to gain employment as a teacher in Victorian government schools. Similarly if you are visiting Victoria a work permit that covers the type and period of employment is required. Citizens of New Zealand - while regarded as Australian citizens for employment purposes - are required to provide evidence of their New Zealand citizenship.
The principal of a school where you are seeking to teach will need evidence that you have obtained the appropriate visa or work permit, before completing employment procedures. Evidence could be either your original passport or certified copies of the relevant pages from your passport showing your name and the stamp that confirms the right to permanent residence or your work permit. If you are a British subject who migrated to Australia prior to 1974 then evidence of residence in Australia prior to 1974 is required. Evidence could be school reports or bank account details, for example.
Migration
Detailed information on application procedures for migration and all visa requirements are available online from the Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship If required, this information is available from Australian embassies, high commissions and consulates in overseas. Valuable information and services are also provided by the Victorian Government's Skilled Migration Unit
The Department cannot sponsor or offer employment in support of applications for residency status or work permits unless you have specifically applied for and secured a position advertised through the Department's Recruitment Online system or advertised through the Australian or international press.