When Lisa Gunnigan packed her bags in Kilkelly, County Mayo, and headed to Australia in October 2022, she wasn’t just chasing sunshine. She was stepping into a whole new chapter of her teaching career. Now based in Brisbane, Queensland, Lisa has transitioned from Irish classrooms to the dynamic world of education recruitment, helping other teachers find their footing in Australia.
We caught up with Lisa to hear her story—the challenges, the wins, and everything in between — and to get her insights on what Irish teachers can expect when making the move Down Under.
Starting Out: From Kindergarten to Career Change
Lisa’s partner, a civil engineer, landed his role in Australia through NexVentur. While waiting for her teaching registration to be approved, Lisa took on a temporary role teaching kindergarten. It was a big shift from her experience teaching fifth and sixth class back in Ireland.
“I quickly realised early years wasn’t my long-term fit,” Lisa shares. “Once my registration came through, I applied to a recruitment company called SchoolHouse. I was initially looking for a teaching role, but they offered me a position as a recruitment consultant instead, and I’ve loved it ever since.”
Now, Lisa helps schools across Brisbane and Queensland find great teachers, including fellow Irish expats. “It’s rewarding to support others through the process and give them honest advice about what to expect.”
Understanding the Australian Education Landscape
One of the biggest surprises for Lisa was the complexity of Australia’s education system. Unlike Ireland’s more centralised structure, each Australian state and territory has its own rules, registration process, and curriculum.
“In Queensland, I had to apply through the Queensland College of Teachers,” she explains. “It’s a detailed process involving transcripts, police checks, proof of experience, and it costs around A$300. It can take a few months, so starting early is key.”
Australia also has a mix of state, Catholic, and independent schools, which can be confusing for newcomers. “It’s more like the UK system than Ireland’s, with key stages and a broader range of school types.”
Irish Teachers Are in Demand
The good news is that Irish qualifications are well respected.
“Our four-year degrees are recognised, and being native English speakers is a big plus,” Lisa says. “Many Catholic schools also appreciate teachers with a Catholic background, which is common among Irish educators.”
Getting Job-Ready Before You Arrive
Lisa recommends starting the registration process from Ireland if you are heading to Queensland. “You can post your documents before you leave, which helps you hit the ground running.”
Other states, such as New South Wales, require you to be in Australia to apply, as they need local details like a Tax File Number and address.
The Working Holiday Visa Challenge
For Irish teachers on a Working Holiday Visa, there is a catch. Teaching does not count as regional work, which is required to extend your stay.
“You can only work in a school for six months before needing to do regional work,” Lisa explains. “It’s always in the back of your mind, and schools know this, so they often offer six-month contracts.”
Some teachers try to get UK passports to avoid this requirement, while others look for sponsored roles that bypass the regional work rule altogether.
Salaries and Career Progression
Teacher pay in Australia is competitive. In Queensland, graduate teachers earn around A$85,000 annually, roughly €46,000, with steady increases over time. Relief teaching, known as supply teaching in Ireland, also pays well and offers flexibility for those not ready to commit to full-time roles.
Teaching in the Outback: Bush Schools Explained
For adventurous teachers, bush schools offer a unique experience. Located in remote communities, these schools often serve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and can be both culturally and logistically challenging.
“They’re small, often without websites, we call them Facebook schools,” Lisa says. “You’ll need to be adaptable and open-minded, but the rewards are huge.”
Many bush schools offer generous packages, including housing, meals, and travel allowances. Some are more than seven hours from the nearest town.
Beyond the Cities: Regional Opportunities and Sponsorship
While most Irish teachers stick to cities and coastal areas, regional schools can fast track your career. Leadership roles, sponsorship options, and diverse teaching experiences are all available.
“The downside is the smaller expat community,” Lisa notes. “But if you’re looking for something different, it’s a fantastic opportunity.”
Final Thoughts: Advice for Irish Teachers Considering the Move
Lisa’s journey shows that teaching in Australia is not just about a job. It is about growth, adventure, and finding new ways to make an impact.
“If you’re thinking about it, talk to a recruitment agency,” she advises. “They’ll guide you through the paperwork, help you understand the school system, and give you the confidence to take the leap.”
Find out more about teaching roles available and apply through NexVentur:
https://www.nexventur.com/teaching-jobs-australia/