One job sector is crying out for Aussies to apply amid a dwindling supply of workers despite an incredibly attractive starting salary. Everything that flows into this country has to first go past a customs broker and it appears the industry is in desperate need of fresh blood.
There are a little more than 1,600 brokers already employed across Australia, however, more than half are over 50 and it won’t be long before that cohort retires. Even though you can earn up to $120,000 per year when you first get into the role, there are not enough Aussies putting their hands up to join.
As a result, the sector has upped the ante to get more workers on the books.
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Supply chain expert and customs broker Kelly Crossley has joined forces with International Forwarders and Customs Brokers Association of Australia WA director Nicole Couper to target Aussies who are about to enter the workforce.
They’ve set up seminars at two Perth schools to get the word out about the lucrative job.
“Customs brokers are the nation’s gateway for the smooth flow of goods across borders, and they navigate complex customs regulations, ensure compliance and help businesses avoid costly delays and penalties,” Crossley explained to WA Today.
“Their expertise is crucial in maintaining the efficiency of our supply chains – the backbone of our economy.”
How do you become a customs broker?
But you can’t just walk onto the site and start earning your $120,000; you have to complete a Diploma of Customs Broking, which takes two years if you do it full-time.
Job site SEEK explains that you’ll be responsible for what comes in and what goes out of the country.
“They advise individuals and companies about international trade, entry procedures, valuation, classification and duties and taxes,” it said.
“Customs Brokers are skilled individuals who classify and lodge clearers for import and export shipments by liaising directly with customers.”
There are three categories of customs brokers: corporate, sole trader and nominee.
You’ll need that diploma to explore any of those three areas and you’ll also have to rack up some custom broking experience to get your license.
Some organisations might also require you to sit a national exam, but that isn’t a mandatory requirement.
Your customs broking license lasts up to three years and you have to commit to continuing professional development each year to stay up to date on all the required knowledge.
Warning to Aussie applicants
Nuh Dzuljaidi, 22, fell into the training after his aviation career was put on ice due to the pandemic. Because he had previous experience in freight logistics, he could earn $160,000 to $180,000 when he finishes the two-year training.
But he has warned Aussies about applying.
“It’s not just about money – you have to be interested in it,” he explained.
“It’s a lot of data entry, and it can be boring after a while – it’s not a job I would have been interested in if I hadn’t already been in the industry.”
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