The MATES (Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme) is an opportunity designed for young Indian professionals to live and work in Australia for up to two years, contributing their skills to key Australian industries. Launched in 2024, the program offers 3,000 spots annually, enabling talented graduates from India to engage in work sectors like engineering, ICT, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and financial technology. Through this program, participants can build professional networks and gain valuable experience in settings that support personal and career growth, all while strengthening connections between India and Australia.
The MATES program offers Indian professionals a pathway to broaden their skills and gain global work experience. For graduates and early-career professionals in particular, this program provides an environment where they can connect with industry leaders, work on meaningful projects, and gain knowledge that may not be readily accessible domestically. This hands-on exposure can significantly boost their career prospects and allow them to return to India equipped with new insights and perspectives. Moreover, the program supports Australia-India relations by fostering talent exchanges that promote cultural and professional understanding between the two countries.
Eligibility Requirements
Because of the program’s competitive nature, applicants must meet a set of criteria to qualify. Each year, candidates are selected through a ballot process to fill the 3,000 available spots. Only candidates who meet these essential requirements can enter the ballot, making the program a selective and highly sought-after opportunity. Key requirements include:
- Applying from outside Australia,
- Holding a valid Indian passport,
- Being aged 18 to 30,
- Registering for the pre-application ballot,
- Meeting minimum scores on recognized English language tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, OET, or PTE,
- Having a degree from one of the approved institutions recognized by the Australian government.
These criteria aim to attract skilled professionals who can make meaningful contributions to Australia’s workforce. By requiring applicants to have qualifications from recognized institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and other respected universities, the MATES program ensures a high level of expertise among participants.
Approved Institutions and Recognized Qualifications
The list of approved institutions is based on their reputation for producing graduates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant skills. Recognized degrees include Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees, which allow applicants to contribute in various professional capacities within Australia. This approach helps maintain the program’s high standards, as each participant is expected to bring expertise in their field that aligns with Australia’s needs.
Minimum Language Scores for English Proficiency
To ensure effective communication in the workplace, applicants must meet specific scores on one of several accepted English language tests. These include:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6, with no component below 5.
- CAE: Overall score of 169, with a minimum of 154 in each section.
- PTE: Overall score of 50, with a minimum of 36 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
Each test has its own scoring requirements, and achieving the minimum scores reflects applicants’ ability to engage with colleagues and clients effectively. This focus on language skills allows MATES participants to fully integrate into Australia’s professional environment.
Program Duration and Availability
Successful MATES applicants have 12 months from the date their visa is granted to make their first entry into Australia. They can remain in the country for up to 24 months from the date of entry, providing ample time to gain substantial experience in their chosen field. The annual 3,000-place limit encourages healthy competition and ensures that those selected have demonstrated the skills and qualifications needed to contribute positively to the Australian workforce.
Targeted Fields and Industries
The MATES program is structured to meet the demand in Australia for skilled professionals across various fields. Indian graduates with experience in the following industries are especially encouraged to apply:
- Renewable Energy:
- Mining
- Engineering
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Artificial Intelligence
- Financial Technology
- Agricultural Technology
By focusing on these fields, the MATES program connects Indian talent with opportunities that match both countries’ growth priorities, helping Australia advance its industries while providing Indian professionals with hands-on experience in a global setting.
Benefits for Indian Graduates and Early-Career Professionals
The MATES program offers Indian nationals a valuable chance to grow their careers in an international setting and gain practical experience in highly demanded fields. In Australia, participants have the opportunity to engage in work environments that emphasize collaboration, skill development, and learning. This experience allows them to work with industry experts and be part of projects that utilize some of the most recent advancements and methodologies in their fields. Upon returning to India, MATES alumni can leverage this experience to enhance their career prospects, apply new knowledge, and possibly introduce new practices within their own industries.
The program’s family-friendly structure also allows participants to bring their dependents to Australia, who have full work rights during the duration of the visa. This flexibility makes MATES an attractive option for young professionals looking to build their careers without having to compromise on family commitments.
