Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the next step once I have registered online?
You will be contacted within 2-3 weeks to schedule an interview.
What do I need to take to the interview?
A copy of your resume, qualifications, visa and IELTS assessment for us to keep.
Is this program free of charge?
Yes. This program is funded by the NSW Adult Migrant English Service and the NSW Department of Education and Training.
Am I still eligible to join the program if I have a part-time or casual job, which is not relevant to my skills?
Yes. The aim of this program is to assist you in finding a job that is relevant to your skills.
But please note that you will be required to organise for time off from your job when a work experience opportunity has been arranged for you.
Can I do more than 2 weeks of work experience?
Work experience placements may be extended given that both the employer and you are in agreement of the extension.
Can I have more than 15 hours of Mentoring?
Yes, as long as both the mentor and you agree to the extension.
Can I still join the program even if I haven’t done a Skillmax class?
You must have completed a Skillmax class at NSW AMES, or a similar local jobseeking course, before you can be enrolled in the Skilled Migrant Mentoring Program.
How long will it take for the SMMP Program Coordinator to find me a mentor or work experience?
This is dependent on your vocational field, and whether volunteer mentors or work experience opportunities are available that match your skills and experience.
Some people get matched with a mentor or placed in work experience almost immediately, others must wait for a month or two before we can find them some assistance.
If you want to improve your chances of gaining some local unpaid work experience quickly once you have been formally enrolled in the program, we encourage you to approach relevant employers yourself to request a placement. SMMP staff are happy to liaise with employers that respond with interest in order to facilitate an arrangement for you.
Can I do more than one work experience placement?
Work experience opportunities are difficult for us to obtain, and once we have arranged a work experience placement for you, we need to find work experience for the others in the program who have not yet had a chance to do some unpaid work in a local organisation.
If you can arrange a second placement for yourself, however, you are welcome to do so, as you will continue to be covered by our college’s insurance for as long as you are enrolled in the Skilled Migrant Mentoring Program.
