If you’re considering a career in education and want to know how to become a teacher in Australia, you’re in the right place.
This guide walks you through the process, highlighting what steps to take if you’re already a registered teacher in another country, such as the US, UK, or other European countries.
Teaching Courses in Australia
To start your journey of teaching in Australia, you need to complete a recognised teaching qualification in Australia or get recognition from whatever state you plan to teach in.
This typically involves a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) or a combined degree program, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Science followed by a Master of Teaching or a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PCGE If from overseas). Totalling a combined minimum of 4 years.
Teaching courses in Australia are tailored to give you the skills and understanding needed to succeed in both primary and secondary classrooms settings.
Top Tip: – Once you’re teaching in Australia, bring your teacher ID card everywhere with you. You can save yourself a fortune by using it to get free entry into many attractions such as Zoo’s and get many great discounts. I
‘ve linked everything here: a blog on Classcover’s Teacher discounts blog page and Teacher discounts in Australia that you didn’t know about.
Teaching in New South Wales
In New South Wales (NSW), teachers must complete a teaching qualification in Australia accredited by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). After graduation, aspiring teachers must register with NESA to be eligible to teach in public schools.
Teaching in Victoria
To teach in Victoria, you’ll need to complete a teaching degree approved by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT). Post-graduation, you must apply for teacher registration with the VIT to begin your teaching career in the state.
Teaching in Queensland
Teachers in Queensland need a teaching qualification recognised by the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT). This means finishing a teaching degree and getting registered with the QCT.
Teaching in South Australia
In South Australia, prospective teachers must have a recognised teaching qualification and be registered with the Teachers Registration Board of South Australia. This makes sure they meet the teaching standards needed in the state.
Teaching in Western Australia
Aspiring teachers in Western Australia need to complete an accredited teaching program and obtain registration from the Teacher Registration Board of Western Australia. This board oversees the registration and professional development of teachers in the state.
Teaching in Tasmania
In Tasmania, you must complete a recognised Australia teaching qualification and register with the Teachers Registration Board of Tasmania. This board ensures that teachers meet the professional and ethical standards for teaching in the state.
Teaching in the Australian Capital Territory
Teachers in the ACT need a qualification recognised by the Teacher Quality Institute (TQI). This institute ensures that teachers meet the professional standards for teaching in the state.
Teaching in the Northern Territory
In the Northern Territory, the Teacher Registration Board of Northern Territory (TRBNT) is responsible for teacher registration.
Can a Foreigner Become a Teacher in Australia?
Yes, foreigners can become teachers in Australia. If you are a qualified teacher from another country, you can apply for teacher registration in Australia.
You’ll need to have your qualifications assessed by the relevant teacher registration board in the state or territory where you wish to teach. Often, you may need to complete additional requirements, such as a skills assessment or English language proficiency test.
In another blog, I will discuss the quickest way to become a teacher in Australia when being qualified overseas.
Are Teachers in High Demand?
There is a growing demand for teachers across Australia, especially in regional and remote communities.
Particularly for teachers who specialise in subjects like Maths, Science, and Special Education. These are great opportunities for both local and international educators to pursue careers in Australia.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher in Australia?
The path to become a primary school teacher in Australia or how to become a secondary school teacher in Australia typically involves completing a four-year Bachelor of Education degree or a two-year Master of Teaching if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
If you are an international teacher or registered overseas teacher: the process may vary based on your qualifications and the state’s specific requirements. This means that how long it takes to become a teacher in Australia can depend on your previous education and the state requirements.
What is the Average Teacher Salary in Australia?
How much is a teacher’s salary in Australia?
The average teacher salary in Australia varies by state and experience level. Generally, a new teacher can expect to earn between AUD 70,000 and AUD 80,000 per year depending on public or private as pay scales can vary, with some offering higher salaries than public schools.
Experienced teachers can earn upwards of AUD 135,000 annually in some states.
Teacher salaries in Australia are competitive and include benefits such as paid holidays and superannuation.
Here is a table below to show the approximately salaries in each state between public and private schools (this should be used a guide only and to check as salaries can change):
| State or Territory | Public (Low - High) | Private (Low- High) |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | AUD 77,000 – AUD 126,000 | AUD 80,000 – AUD 135,000 |
| Victoria (VIC) | AUD 74,000 – AUD 120,000 | AUD 75,000 – AUD 130,000 |
| Queensland (QLD) | AUD 75,000 – AUD 108,000 | AUD 78,000 – AUD 115,000 |
| Western Australia (WA) | AUD 74,000 – AUD 113,000 | AUD 76,000 – AUD 120,000 |
| South Australia (SA) | AUD 73,000 – AUD 101,000 | AUD 74,000 – AUD 110,000 |
| Tasmania (TAS) | AUD 70,000 – AUD 100,000 | AUD 71,000 – AUD 105,000 |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | AUD 77,000 – AUD 117,000 | AUD 80,000 – AUD 125,000 |
| Northern Territory (NT) | AUD 77,000 – AUD 109,000 | AUD 78,000 – AUD 115,000 |
Get All Your Aussie Teaching Information in One Place
For more detailed information on how to become a teacher in Australia and the specific requirements for each state, visit our dedicated state articles. Whether you are a local aspiring teacher or a qualified international educator, these resources will provide you with the guidance and insights needed to navigate the Australian education system successfully.
By understanding the pathways and requirements of how to become a teacher in Australia, you’ll be fully prepared to begin a great teaching career in Australia.
Start Your Teaching Career in Australia Now!
Visit Darren Jonathon to get all the information you need in one place.
