u/hercules_super

Hey guys,

Just after a bit of honest advice from people already in WA/Australia.

I’ll likely be moving to Perth on a TR/spouse pathway as my wife’s already there studying. My background’s mainly ex-military overseas with experience in operations, leadership, compliance, safety/risk-focused environments and managing people.

Been trying to work out what the most realistic pathway into the Aussie job market looks like for someone with that sort of background. I’ve looked into ops, logistics, WHS/safety, aviation support stuff etc, but not sure how transferable overseas experience actually is over there.

Do most people just cop an entry-level role first to get “Australian experience” and move up from there? Or are there certain industries that value this kind of background more?

Just keen to hear real experiences from people who’ve done the transition.

Cheers legends.

Hi all,

Looking for some realistic advice from people already working in WHS/safety/compliance in Australia, especially WA.

My wife is currently in Perth and I’m planning to move there long-term as well. I come from an ex-military background overseas and have spent years working in structured high-risk operational environments involving leadership, safety culture, compliance, coordination, procedures and risk management.

Because of that background, I’ve been seriously considering WHS/HSE as a long-term career path in Australia. From what I’ve researched so far, it seems experience and local exposure matter a lot more than just qualifications alone.

I’m trying to understand what would realistically be the smartest pathway for someone in my position.

Also curious how employers generally view ex-military overseas experience in Australia. Does it translate well into safety/compliance roles, or is local industry experience basically everything?

Not expecting shortcuts — just trying to understand the most practical route from people already in the industry.

Appreciate any honest advice.