Webinar Q&A Session (2 April 2025)
On 2 April 2025, VETASSESS hosted a webinar focusing on the Science, Health and Agriculture Industry. The session covered key aspects of the assessment process for professional occupations and addressed many insightful questions from participants.
Below, our subject matter experts responded to the top 10 most frequently asked questions from the webinar:
1. How do Certificates III and IV compare to Indian degrees?
In Australia, Certificate III and IV qualifications are part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Levels 3 and 4, respectively. These are vocational qualifications that focus on practical skills for specific occupations. By contrast, an Indian Bachelor's degree is typically considered comparable to AQF Level 7. While higher in the AQF hierarchy, the Indian degree may not substitute for Certificate III or IV where a lower AQF level qualification is required for specific roles.
2. What tasks and documentation are relevant for pharmacy assistants or technicians?
For Pharmacy Technician (ANZSCO 311215), relevant tasks include assisting with preparation and dispensing of prescriptions under a pharmacist's supervision, maintaining accurate medication records and patient records, managing stock, and preparing medications for distribution. Evidence should include employment references, payslips, and qualifications aligned with pharmacy support roles. Pharmacist-level responsibilities such as independently advising patients or making clinical decisions are not appropriate for this occupation. Similarly, experience limited to a pharmacy sales assistant role without demonstrable support tasks performed under a pharmacist’s supervision is also not suitable.
3. What level of journals are accepted for applicants from India?
VETASSESS accepts peer-reviewed journal articles, original research articles published in recognized academic journals. Journals should be listed in national or international databases (Scoupus, ISSN, etc), and the publications should demonstrate relevance to the nominated occupation. Impact factor and publication credibility are considered during the review process.
4. What is the difference between clinical and non-clinical work experience?
Clinical experience typically involves direct patient care, assisting medical procedures and pathology testing for health outcomes. Non-clinical roles support health services without direct patient interaction or outcomes, such as research or administrative tasks. VETASSESS evaluates the nature of your work against the ANZSCO description for the nominated occupation.
5. How strict is VETASSESS on the duration of employment?
The requirement is clear: applicants must show at least 12 months of paid, highly relevant employment within the last five years. Experience less than this, even by a few days, does not meet the standard. Casual and part-time roles are acceptable if they meet the full-time equivalent based on hours worked.
6. Is cash payment of salary accepted as valid evidence of employment?
Cash payments alone are not sufficient. VETASSESS requires supporting documents like tax records, official reference letters, or business registration evidence. Consistent and verifiable payment records are essential for confirming employment.
7. Does VETASSESS verify LinkedIn profiles or compare them with official documents?
No, LinkedIn is not considered an official document. However, discrepancies between online profiles and formal submissions may raise questions. Applicants are encouraged to maintain consistency across all representations of their work history.
8. How can freelancers or self-employed professionals (e.g., agricultural consultants) prove full-time work?
Self-employed applicants must submit a portfolio of documents: business registration certificates, tax records, invoices, letter from accountant and client references. These must demonstrate continuous, full-time work relevant to the nominated occupation.
9. What happens if employment is found to be non-genuine?
If VETASSESS identifies inconsistencies or lacks confidence in the legitimacy of employment claims, the outcome may be negative. Additional checks may include site visits, interviews, or further documentation. All applicants have a right to request a review or clarification on the decision.
10. Can a pharmacist from overseas apply as a pharmacy technician?
Yes, provided the applicant can clearly demonstrate that their work aligns with pharmacy technician tasks, not those of a pharmacist. They must show that they work under a supervising pharmacist and undertake support duties only. While their degree may be relevant, the assessment focuses on the tasks performed.
If you have more questions or require guidance on preparing your application, our team at VETASSESS is here to help. For the most up-to-date information and resources, visit vetassess.com.au.