With the rising demand for domestic services in Australia, especially in major cities like Sydney, there has been a significant increase in opportunities for both skilled and semi-skilled workers. For international job seekers—particularly from Africa and other developing regions—Sydney offers not just employment but also the possibility of employer-sponsored visas, competitive salaries, and in some cases, pathways to permanent residency.
In this article, we explore high-paying domestic job opportunities in Sydney, visa sponsorship details, application tips, and average salary expectations. If you’re looking to work abroad in 2025, Australia may be your next big break.
Why Domestic Jobs Are in High Demand in Sydney
Sydney, Australia’s largest city, is home to a diverse population and a fast-paced economy. With busy professionals, dual-income households, and an aging population, there is a growing need for domestic workers to assist in daily household and caregiving tasks.
Key Factors Driving Demand:
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Aging population: More households require live-in or part-time caregivers.
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High cost of child care: Families prefer in-home nannies or babysitters.
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Busy professional households: Need for housekeepers, cooks, and cleaners.
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Shortage of local workers: Employers are willing to sponsor skilled foreign workers.
Top High-Paying Domestic Jobs in Sydney With Visa Sponsorship
Here are some of the most in-demand domestic roles with competitive pay and visa support:
1. Live-in Nanny or Childcare Worker
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Average Salary: AUD $55,000 – $85,000 annually
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Visa Pathway: Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) or Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
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Duties: Caring for children, school drop-offs, meal prep, and light household duties.
2. Aged Care Support Worker
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Average Salary: AUD $65,000 – $90,000
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Visa Pathway: Subclass 482 or Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)
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Duties: Assisting elderly clients with daily activities, medication, personal care, and mobility.
3. Housekeeper
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Average Salary: AUD $50,000 – $75,000
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Visa Pathway: Employer sponsorship under domestic service categories
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Duties: General house cleaning, laundry, organizing, and maintenance.
4. Private Chef or Cook (Residential)
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Average Salary: AUD $70,000 – $100,000
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Visa Pathway: Subclass 482
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Duties: Preparing daily meals for families, grocery shopping, and maintaining dietary standards.
5. Driver or Chauffeur (Private Family)
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Average Salary: AUD $60,000 – $90,000
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Visa Pathway: Subclass 482 or regional sponsorship
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Duties: School runs, airport pickups, errands, and weekend trips.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants from Africa, Asia, and other non-Western countries can apply if they meet certain basic requirements.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Minimum of 1–2 years’ experience in the role.
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English language proficiency (IELTS or PTE may be required).
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Police clearance from your home country.
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Willingness to relocate and adapt to Australian culture.
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Positive attitude and references from previous employers (preferred).
Visa Sponsorship: How It Works
Many domestic roles fall under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa – Subclass 482, which allows Australian employers to sponsor a skilled foreign worker when local talent is unavailable.
Steps to Get Sponsored:
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Find an eligible employer willing to sponsor.
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Employer submits a nomination to the Australian Government.
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You submit your visa application after the employer’s nomination is approved.
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Visa is granted for up to 4 years, with a pathway to permanent residency after 3 years.
Some regional domestic jobs also qualify for Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa – Subclass 491, which offers additional incentives for living outside Sydney’s metro area.
Where to Find Domestic Jobs in Sydney with Visa Support
Many legitimate job boards and government portals advertise these roles.
Top Sources:
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Seek.com.au – Use filters for “sponsorship available”
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Indeed Australia – Search keywords like “domestic + visa sponsorship”
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Workforce Australia – Government listings for sponsored roles
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Care.com.au – For nanny, aged care, and housekeeping jobs
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Jora.com.au – Often lists family-sponsored roles
Some recruitment agencies also specialize in overseas placements for domestic workers.
Real Success Stories
Mary from Kenya – Live-in Nanny
“I applied through Care.com and got hired by a family in Bondi. They sponsored my visa, and now I’m applying for permanent residency after 3 years. My salary covers my expenses, and I send money home monthly.”
Paul from Nigeria – Private Cook
“I used to work in a hotel kitchen. I got connected to a Sydney family needing a private chef. Now, I earn AUD $6,000 per month, and they even helped me bring my wife over.”
These are real pathways that many have taken—and so can you.
Cost of Living vs. Salary
Domestic workers in Sydney can expect to earn competitive wages compared to local standards. While Sydney has a relatively high cost of living, the salaries offered—especially for live-in roles—make it financially viable.
Sample Monthly Budget for Live-In Workers:
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Rent: $0 (covered by employer)
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Food: $100 (mostly employer-provided)
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Transport: $50–$80
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Savings Potential: $1,500–$2,500 monthly
Tips for a Successful Application
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Professional Resume: Tailored to Australian job standards.
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Video Introduction: Helps employers connect with you on a personal level.
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References: Include at least one or two from previous employers.
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Follow-Up: Don’t hesitate to reach out again after applying.
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Research the Employer: Ensure it’s a legitimate household or agency.
Beware of Scams
Visa-related job offers can be targeted by scammers. Here’s how to protect yourself:
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Never pay upfront fees to unknown agents.
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Always check the legitimacy of the job offer and company.
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Use official Australian government portals for visa information.
Final Thoughts
Domestic jobs in Sydney, Australia, are no longer limited to local citizens. With employer demand rising and visa pathways available, Africans and other foreign nationals now have a real opportunity to work, earn a high salary, and build a future in Australia.
Whether you’re an experienced nanny, a skilled caregiver, or an expert cook, your next big break may be waiting in Sydney.
Summary:
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Top Roles: Nanny, Aged Care Worker, Housekeeper, Private Chef, Driver
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Salaries: Up to AUD $100,000/year
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Visa: TSS 482, Skilled Work 491
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Where to Apply: Seek, Indeed, Care.com, Workforce Australia
If you’re ready to start the journey, begin by updating your resume, researching open roles, and applying to employers open to international applicants. Your dream job in Australia could be just a few clicks away.