Newcastle to host region’s first International Careers Day at City Hall

newy.com.au – City of Newcastle will host the Hunter region’s first International Careers Day at Newcastle City Hall on 23 March, bringing skilled migrants, refugees and international students together with potential employers.

The one-day expo is designed to create job pathways while helping address workforce shortages across key industries, with organisers promoting a mix of full-time, part-time, graduate and casual roles.

Opportunities on offer will span health, technology, tourism, advanced manufacturing and professional services, with employer booths, breakout presentations and one-on-one support services planned throughout the day.

City of Newcastle executive manager media, economy, engagement and affairs Nick Kaiser said the event aimed to deliver meaningful employment outcomes for students while supporting businesses experiencing ongoing workforce pressures.

“With 250 students and 35 businesses expected to participate, the expo will feature employer booths, breakout presentations, and one-on-one support services designed to build confidence, capability and connections,” Kaiser said.

He said the format would include resume writing support, professional photography and industry presentations to help students take “confident steps toward employment” while making it easier for employers to connect with candidates.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Access Inclusion Standing Committee, Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, said the Careers Day aligned with efforts to foster an inclusive and globally connected local economy.

“Through initiatives like our International Student Ambassador Program, we are proud to champion programs that help students feel welcomed, supported and connected to opportunity,” Adamczyk said.

“Building on this work and previous events such as the Jobs Connect Breakfast, this Careers Day strengthens long-term industry partnerships and advances workforce inclusion across our region,” she said.

The initiative is being led by City of Newcastle and delivered in partnership with the University of Newcastle, TAFE NSW, College of International Education, Business Hunter, Mosaic Multicultural Connections, Training Services NSW, Genu Training, Hunter Local Jobs, and Refugee Education Australia, with support from Study NSW.

Organisers said the event was supported by $20,000 in funding from Study NSW to deliver a program aimed at enhancing the international student experience, engagement and employability.

Investment NSW deputy secretary Rebecca McPhee said the Careers Day would help international students build career pathways while supporting NSW’s reputation as a globally competitive study destination.

“Newcastle and the Hunter region offer international students a powerful combination of world-class education, industry-connected learning and a community that genuinely welcomes global talent,” McPhee said.

Registrations are open for businesses and students to express interest in taking part in the event.