Australia is a top destination for qualified teachers, especially those from India seeking career opportunities, a high standard of living, and permanent residency pathways. But how exactly can you become a teacher in Australia if you’re trained in India? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step guide to becoming a teacher in Australia from India, including qualifications, English requirements, skills assessment, and visa options.
Why Teach in Australia?
Australia has a growing demand for teachers, especially in early childhood, secondary STEM subjects, and regional areas. Benefits include:
- Competitive salary packages
- High work-life balance
- PR-friendly occupations (MLTSSL)
- Opportunities across metro and regional schools
- Inclusive work environments
Step-by-Step Process: From India to Australia as a Teacher
Step 1: Choose the Right Teaching Specialisation
In Australia, teachers are classified under:
- Early Childhood (Pre-Primary School Teacher)
- Primary School Teacher
- Secondary School Teacher
Choose the one that aligns with your qualifications and teaching experience in India.
Step 2: Ensure You Meet the Qualification Requirements
To work as a teacher in Australia, you must hold a teaching qualification equivalent to an Australian Bachelor’s degree or higher, such as:
- B.Ed. + Bachelor’s degree
- Integrated Bachelor of Education degrees
The qualification should include:
- A minimum of 45 days supervised teaching practice
- At least one year of full-time study in teacher education
Step 3: Meet the English Language Requirement
AITSL (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership) requires an IELTS Academic test, with minimum scores of:
- Reading: 7.0
- Writing: 7.0
- Listening: 8.0
- Speaking: 8.0
These scores must be achieved in one sitting. No alternative English tests are accepted.
Step 4: Apply for Skills Assessment via AITSL
Before applying for a visa, you need a positive skills assessment through AITSL.
Required documents include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of supervised teaching practice
- IELTS Academic test results
- Statement of service/employment letters (if applicable)
Without AITSL approval, your visa application cannot proceed.
Step 5: Apply for Teacher Registration (Once in Australia)
After arriving, you must register with a state/territory teacher registration board, such as:
- VIT – Victoria
- NESA – New South Wales
- TRBWA – Western Australia
- QCT – Queensland
Each board may have additional requirements, such as working with children checks.
Visa Options for Teachers
Most teaching roles fall under the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)—qualifying you for skilled migration.
Popular visas include:
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) – PR without sponsorship
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) – PR with state nomination
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa) – 5-year provisional visa leading to PR
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) – Employer sponsorship
Many states offer priority nominations for early childhood and secondary STEM teachers.
Summary Checklist for Indian Teachers Migrating to Australia
Requirement | Details |
Qualification | Bachelor + B.Ed. or integrated teaching degree |
Skills Assessment | Via AITSL |
English Test | IELTS Academic: R7.0, W7.0, L8.0, S8.0 |
Visa Options | 189, 190, 491, or 482 |
Registration | Required after arrival |
Need Help with the Process?
Navigating teaching migration can be complex. At EDUAbroad Guru, we specialise in helping teachers from India with:
- Course selection (if upskilling is required)
- AITSL assessment preparation
- IELTS coaching & resources
- State nomination and PR visa applications
Contact us today to take the next step in your teaching journey to Australia.