Work Experience and Industry Placement
We recognise the importance of providing opportunities for tertiary students to complement their studies with practical work experience. Our Industry Placement program provides students with the opportunity to gain that experience in a real-world setting. Placements may only be undertaken where a requirement exists as part of a university or TAFE College course curriculum.
What are the benefits?
The benefits for students include:
- broadening their experience, developing professional networks with prospective hiring managers, and gaining a competitive edge
- gaining practical experience in their chosen field
- providing an opportunity to work with experienced and knowledgeable staff
- creating an opportunity to increase their knowledge of the public sector and the work of the department.
What are the eligibility requirements?
- Students must be enrolled with an Australian tertiary education provider.
- The student’s tertiary education provider must have appropriate Public Liability insurance.
- Students must be enrolled in a subject related to marine science or education (Marine Biology, Marine Science, Environmental Science, Zoology/Animal Science, Education/Teaching) which requires them to undertake an industry placement.
- Students must be:
- an Australian citizen or
- reside in Australia and have permission or a right to be granted permission, under Commonwealth law, to remain in Australia indefinitely or
- be a New Zealand citizen who is currently residing in Australia or
- have a working visa for the duration of the placement.
Overseas students are welcome to seek volunteer opportunities (same as volunteer directly hyperlink) as applicable.
If you are not a current university student but have graduated within the last 2–3 years, you may be eligible to apply for volunteer opportunities or employment opportunities.
What are the areas of discipline?
We offer projects across all divisions and a variety of disciplines, including:
- conservation management
- environmental science and environmental management
- environmental tourism and sustainable tourism
- policy development
- information technology and computer science
- science or applied science
- wildlife management
- education
- sustainability
- waste management
When are placements available?
Placement projects are usually advertised in Semester 2 (July-October), with placements occurring during either Semester 2 (July–October), Semester 3 or summer break period (November–February). We understand that different universities adhere to separate placement requirements for students and therefore are able to provide alternative program lengths to suit these specific requirements.
Where will placements be located?
This will depend on the specific placement projects on offer. SOEL primarily operates from the Queenscliff harbour at the Sea All Dolphin Swim reception. However, programs may be facilitated throughout the Bellarine, Surf Coast and the city of Greater Geelong.
What can I expect during an industry placement?
Placements are aimed at providing students with practical work experience in their discipline. Projects are based on business and operational needs and will be different each year. During the placement, students will work on a specific placement project to achieve the project’s deliverables.
In some instances, students may be required to undertake some field work on boating vessels within Port Phillip Bay. Other common situations will be as an educational provider at primary and secondary schools throughout the region.
SOEL will provide appropriate training and guidance to ensure students can complete their work safely and confidently.
What hours will I be required to work?
Placement days and hours will be determined following discussions with the student, work required by SOEL and the requirements of the university. Workdays will usually be 8 hours.
Do I need to provide any equipment?
When projects are advertised, SOEL will list resources the organisation will provide, such as a data collection equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE); they will also identify if students are required to supply their own pieces of equipment. Any expenses, such as providing own pieces of equipment or paying for travel or accommodation undertaken as part of the project, can be discussed, and negotiated during the application stage.
Do I get paid for an industry placement?
Industry placements are unpaid.
Do I need to have insurance?
Yes. The student’s tertiary education provider is required to have appropriate Public Liability insurance. Students will also be covered under SOEL’s Workcover insurance.
How do I apply for a placement?
You can then apply for industry placement by contacting SOELS volunteer coordinator via email info@soel.og.au. Projects are generally advertised on this page, and also through tertiary education providers. To apply for advertised projects, you will be required to provide:
- current resume
- brief statement (maximum 1 page) demonstrating your interest in the placement and evidence that you have the necessary skills and experience.
- letter of endorsement from your tertiary institution, including verification of enrolment in an industry placement course, and public liability insurance.
- Copy of any qualifications you may feel necessary for the role, such as First Aid or CPR. Please note these qualifications are not necessary to apply for a position, however, once accepted will be required due to organisation policies.
What should I expect after applying?
Once your application is received, it will be sent to SOELS volunteer supervisor for consideration. An informal interview, such as a phone conversation or face-to-face chat, may be undertaken. You will be advised by the volunteer supervisor whether or not you have been successful.
Please note that we may not be able offer a placement for each student who applies due to capacity limits.
Where do I go for further information?
Email info@soel.org.au
Industry placement success stories
- Explain degree, what placement undertook with SOEL/what roles
- Is/has the placement been relevant to your studies
- What have you learnt?
- What have you enjoyed the most?
- Which three (3) words would best describe your placement experience
Brooke – Plastics
Sarah – Popes Cam
Billy – MMO?
Madi (Gary) – Educational Development/Snorkel