How To Become A Web Developer In Australia?

 

Are you computer savvy and detail-oriented with a love of the web and technology and solving technical problems? Then, a career as a Web developer could be ideal for you.

 

Web developers are trained in programming languages, user experience, and internet data processing to build robust, visually appealing, and functional websites for their clients and employers.

 

You don't need a formal qualification to work as a Web Developer in Australia. However, completing a VET or bachelor's qualification in web development, computer science, or information technology is considered valuable to secure an entry-level role.

 

Additionally, gaining relevant experience and a range of industry and vendor certifications can make you more desirable for the role.

 

This blog will teach you the web developer responsibilities, possible work environment, relevant skills, average salary, general job outlook, and the pathway to becoming one. 

 

 

1. What Are Web Developers?

 

Web Developers are highly skilled individuals that use relevant software packages, web programming languages, and databases. They use these to implement the designs to build functional and user-friendly websites from scratch.

 

Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining and updating the websites to ensure optimal performance and improve their search engine rankings.

 

Web Developers collaborate with other Information and Communication Technology professionals, such as web designers, business analysts, and network and usability specialists, to produce and maintain websites.

 

They usually specialise in different aspects of website development, such as front-end developers, back-end developers, or full-stack developers.

 

 

2. What Does A Web Developer Do?

 

Web developers can take on a variety of tasks based on their specialisation. The general duties of a Web Developer are as follows:

 

• Analyse project requirements and design solutions and features

• Plan and design websites to meet client's specifications

• Using computer software and hardware to create and modify the programming code that implements the functionality of a website

• Test code for errors and implement bug fixes and improvements.

• Develop testing and validation procedures to troubleshoot and debug applications and websites

• Deploy code to the live environment

• Regularly take backup of the programming codes and libraries to prevent data loss due to online attacks, natural disasters, etc.

• Maintain the website to ensure that webpages are easy to use and function effectively 

• Work closely with web designers, usability specialists, content producers, software testers, network specialists, and business analysts. They discuss their technical website needs and resolve web-related issues to craft a fully functional and responsive user experience.

• Find and implement ways to enhance online user experience, reduce bugs, and improve SEO

• Optimise the website for mobile devices, tablets, and different browsers

• May create custom programs and new tools to extend the functionality of websites and improve user interaction.

• Manage and maintain a website's servers, database, security, underlying code, and APIs.

• Update the website by adding new illustrations, content, or features as the need arises

• May train new or junior web developers.

 

 

3. Web Developer Required Skills

 

You need technical and soft skills and a continuous learning mindset to work in this growing field.

 

 

Technical Skills

 

• Enjoy web page designing and working on technical issues.

• Strong interest in the web and the several digital technologies used to run it.

• Proficiency in computer programming 

• Strong understanding of object-oriented design concepts

• Foundational knowledge of coding languages needed to design complex and dynamic webpages such as JavaScript, CSS, Javascript, HTML

• Working knowledge of using professional webpage designing and editing software

• Basic understanding of relevant hardware

• Good understanding of managing databases 

• Solid understanding of Search engine optimisation to create search engine-friendly websites

• Able to test, debug and maintain the website

• A natural drive to understand new technology, upgrade skills, and stay up to date with the latest technologies and developments

 

 

Soft Skills

 

• Tech-savvy 

• Like helping employers and clients make visually appealing websites 

• Aptitude for technical tasks

• Patience 

• Attention to detail

• Good emotional control 

• Self-driven and able to boost team morale

• Good communication and presentation skills

• Data analysis skills

• Deductive reasoning

• Able to work in a team environment

• Methodological 

• Strong consulting skills

• Able to identify and solve problems fast and effectively 

• Able to meet tight deadlines

• Persistence and Perseverance

• Interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with clients and co-workers

• Committed to continual learning to expand their knowledge of emerging technologies, the latest industry trends, and new development tools

• Flexible and Adaptable in terms of work hours, workload, and work locations

 

 

4. Web Developer Qualifications In Australia

 

To become a Web Developer, you don't need formal education and training. However, employers may prefer candidates who hold relevant qualifications. 

 

Having prior experience and industry certifications in these areas will help you stand out in the job market.

 

• Gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education in one or more pre-requisite subjects, English, mathematics, and science.

• Complete a Bachelor's degree or VET web developer course in computer science, informational technology, and programming or a relevant field focusing on web development and web design. Some recommended courses are Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development), a Diploma of Information Technology, or Certificate III in Information, Digital Media, and Technology.

• Look to internship opportunities while studying. It will help you gain relevant experience and develop a robust portfolio demonstrating your web development abilities. Alternatively, you can work as a freelancer and complete a few projects related to the role.

• Consider completing vendor and industry certifications as they showcase industry-standard skills and improve your employability for the role.

• Join the Australian Computer Society as a member to improve your chances of career progression and job success 

 

 

5. Steps To Become A Web Developer In Australia

 

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become a web developer in Australia:

 

 

Step 1: Get The Basic Knowledge Of Web Development

 

The first step to starting a Web Developer career is to become familiar with the most common coding and programming languages, such as CSS, JavaScript, Python, and HTML.

 

You can find plenty of online resources, coding boot camps, and web communities to pursue your career goals.

 

Following are some of the short web developer courses:

 

 

• Statement of Attainment in Basic Web Development Specialist Skill Set - TAFE NSW

• Intro to Programming (HTML, CSS, Python, and JavaScript) - RMIT Online

 

 

 

Step 2: Choose A Development Specialisation

 

While you develop your skills, you will need to choose an area of specialisation, such as:

 

 

Front-End Development

 

• Front End Web Developer – Online RMIT

• Front End Developer Web Developer TAFE course

 

 

Back-End Development

 

• Diploma Of Information Technology (Back End Web Development) - Australian Institute Of ICT

 

 

Full-Stack Development

 

• Full Stack Software Development Package web developer TAFE course

 

 

Step 3: Take Formal Web Development Training

 

Regardless of the area of specialisation, you will have to learn to code using coding and markup languages.

 

Formal education in computer science focusing on web development is the best way to start your web development career and increase your employability for this role. 

 

You will learn web development principles, practices, and project management methods and gain experience working as a development team to build websites.

 

Alternatively, aspiring web developers can complete a 15 to 18 months Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development). They will learn in this course the methods to design, develop and administer websites from scratch and gain broader business skills.

 

After completing this workplace-ready education, you can apply for several roles within web development that include:

 

• IT Support Technician

• Web Applications Consultant

• Database Administrator

• Systems Programmer

• Web Designer

 

 

Diploma of Information Technology - RMIT University - Career Outcome: Cybersecurity officer, Cybersecurity consultant, Network support coordinator, ICT Support Officer, Network Administrator, IT administrator, Network services administrator, IT operations administrator, and Network security coordinator.

 

 

Step 4: Pursue A Related Internship

 

After completing the necessary qualification, the next step is to seek Internship opportunities. You can use your web development knowledge to work on clients' projects from start to finish and gain vital work experience.

 

Working as an intern also helps you expand your web development skills and gain experience communicating with clients and collaborating with other IT professionals.

 

Throughout the internship, you will work under the guidance and supervision of experienced professionals and develop a professional network that boosts your chance of landing a Web developer role.

 

Only a few web developer degree programs offer internship placements. However, you can also search to find employers and corporate partners that sponsor internship opportunities for beginner web developers.

 

TAFE SA offers 24-month Apprenticeships and Traineeships as part of their Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development).

 

 

Step 5: Build Your Work Portfolio

 

To become a Web Developer, you need a portfolio of completed projects to help potential clients and employers gauge your technical competencies for this position.

 

With a grasp of web development fundamentals and programming skills, you are ready to start working on projects. 

 

The best way to put across your talent is to develop a website and upload the web pages you have constructed. It is a professional way to show off your skills and impress employers to land a role fast.

 

 

Make Sure To Follow The Rules To Gain A Competitive Advantage and Stand Out From The Pack:

 

• Your work portfolio should comprise a diverse selection of web development work to demonstrate your best work and versatility.

• Research the company as well as the role you are applying for. Refine your portfolio by removing unrelated work samples and highlighting your most relevant work.

• Your portfolio should be unique, containing web pages with a solid front end and providing a great user experience with a well-designed interface. Furthermore, ensure your portfolio is on a flawless site containing no messy code.

• Employers are more interested in knowing your process of approaching problems and developing a quality website. You can mention each example as a case study, describe the issues you were trying to solve and explain your thought process.

 

 

Step 6: Study Relevant Certifications

 

Earning a Certification in web development gives an additional boost on the job hunt. It proves your coding competencies and that you know the latest knowledge in this evolving field.

 

Microsoft, Adobe, Amazon, and Zend are some of the top companies that offer standalone certificates in front-end/ full-stack web development. They also provide exam-based certifications in JavaScript, PHP, and cloud development.

 

 

Certified Full Stack Developer - Australian Institute of ICT

 

• Course Duration: 4 - 6 months course

• Subjects: React, DevOps, Agile, or Python

• Delivery Mode: 100% online learning

 

 

Certification Course highlights:

 

• Multi-platform learning environments

• Hands-on experience

• Flexible study

• Industry partner program

• Globally recognised certifications

• Mentorship with industry experts

• Networking opportunities

 

 

Career Outcome:

 

• Automation Engineer

• DevOps Engineer

• Software Developer (Front and Backend)

• IT Application Developer

 

 

Step 7: Apply For Jobs

 

Once you gain the necessary qualifications and industry certifications, create a concise and informative resume highlighting your technical skills and qualifications. 

 

Start networking and apply for jobs on job boards and sites to acquire work as a freelance Web Developer or as a full-time Web Developer in a development team.

 

 

Step 8: Continue Learning

 

Web developers must constantly upgrade their skills by attending workshops, reading relevant professional journals, and taking additional training. Working in the continuously evolving web development industry is challenging.

 

 

Industry Associations:

 

• Australian Computer Society 

• Australian Web Industry Association 

 

 

Resources For Web Developers:

 

• GitHub

• W3Schools

• Google Web Development Tools

• Web Field Manual

• Front End Handbook

 

 

6. What Is The Web Developer's Salary In Australia?

 

According to Pay Scale, the average web developer's salary is AU$62,276 per year or equivalent to AU$27.80 per hour in Australia. 

 

Factors that impact their potential earnings are:

 

• Level of Experience

• Education and training

• Type of Employment 

• Geographical location

• Areas of expertise

• Previous work experience and work portfolio 

• Industry Certifications and other credentials that show their technical proficiency

 

 

Web developers who specialise in an area within the field attract higher average salaries. 

 

 

The Salary Based on Your Specialisation

 

• Front-end developer: $124,106 per year

• Backend developer: $125,348 per year

• User interface designer: $100,955 per year

• User experience designer: $101, 090 per year

• Webmaster: $ 88,343 per year

 

 

Some Cities Pay Higher Salaries Than Others

 

• Melbourne, Victoria: $81,369 per year

• Sydney, New South Wales: $95,994 per year

• Perth, Western Australia: $85,719 per year

• Brisbane, Queensland: 85,119 per year

• Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: $85,106 per year

• Hobart, Tasmania: $74,944 per year

 

 

The Average Salary Based on Experience

 

• Entry-level web developer salary in Australia (1-year experience): AU$54,850 p.a.

• Early career Web Developers (1-4 years of experience): AU$60,352 p.a.

• Mid-career Web Developers (5-9 years of experience): AU$73,284 p.a.

• Experienced Web Developers (10-19 years of experience): earn AU$77,433 p.a.

 

 

7. Web Developer Jobs In Australia

 

Web developers may work on a contractual or freelance basis in IT-specific organisations, tech companies, digital agencies, and IT departments of other businesses.

 

There are opportunities to work self-employed as consultants for small to large-sized companies.

 

 

8. Work Conditions

 

Web developers spend most of their time working in an office. However, many employees can work remotely or from home, depending on the employer.

 

Working conditions may be stressful with tight deadlines. Many full-time employees work long hours or on the weekend, especially when a big project is due.

 

Web developers may need to travel locally, nationally, and globally to meet their clients, vendors, and other professionals, such as designers and systems specialists.

 

As a web developer, you may work independently on some tasks or in larger teams that may require direct communication with the clients.

 

 

9. Job Prospects Of Web Developers In Australia

 

ANZSCO Occupation Group: 261212 - Web developers

 

Web development is among the highly stable and rapidly expanding industries in Australia and worldwide. With digitisation, our communication and transaction methods are increasingly shifting online.

 

It is causing a higher demand for web developers who can develop intuitive, well-designed, and fully featured websites.

 

Furthermore, having a professionally developed website helps businesses in the following ways:

 

• Reaching diverse demographics

• Instantly presenting their services and products

• Boosting customer engagement

• Generating new leads

• Retaining customers

• Enhancing their brand image

 

Web developers are the most in-demand technological professionals in Australia. Their skills help businesses keep up with online e-commerce and consumer needs.

 

 

Working Arrangements

 

Web developers can work full-time or part-time for organisations, businesses and government institutions. An increasing number of web professionals choose to work as independent contractors.

 

Around 79% of full-time Web Developers work an average of 42 hours per week. (Average of all other jobs: 44 hours per week).

 

 

Main Industries For Employment

 

• Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services: 61.5%

• Information Media And Telecommunications: 7.3%

• Education And Training: 5.5%

• Financial And Insurance Services: 4.2%

• Other Industries: 17.9%

 

 

Employment Across Australia

 

New South Wales and Victoria employ many Web Developers. Let us look at the percentage of employment of web developers in different states of Australia:

 

• New South Wales: 35.5%

• Victoria: 32.2%

• Queensland: 16.7%

• South Australia: 4.8%

• Western Australia: 6.4%

• Tasmania: 1.2%

• Northern Territory: 0.3%

• Australian Capital Territory: 2.9%

 

 

Worker's Age and Gender Profile

 

• The average age of employed workers in this profession is 33 years, with most of them between 25 and 34 years. (Average of all other jobs: 40 years)

• Females constitute 17% of the workforce which is 31 percentage points below the average of all other jobs, 48%.

 

 

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

Why Should You Become A Web Developer?

 

Here are the most compelling reasons to pursue a career in web development:

 

 

• A booming and constantly evolving field

• The high demand for this expertise makes it the most in-demand position in the tech industry 

• A highly lucrative position that does not need a degree and financial investment

• Limitless job opportunities with plenty of scope for specialisation and career advancement 

• Flexibility to work from home

• Ample opportunities to work in a wide range of industries, both within and outside Australia

• A rewarding experience to develop a website from scratch and to see it live

• A future-proof profession that offers good job security

 

 

How To Become A Web Developer Without A Degree?

 

As no formal qualifications are required, you can become a Web Developer without a degree. However, earning a relevant bachelor's degree will help you advance and qualify for more job opportunities.

 

Many web developers start their professional journey with a Certificate IV in Information Technology. You can also take courses covering the basics of web development, including graphic and web design and coding languages such as HTML, Javascript, and CSS. 

 

Completing web developer certificates will make you more marketable and give you a competitive edge over other job applicants competing for the entry position.

 

Once you have a solid foundation in web development, you can work as an intern in a tech firm or freelancer to gain experience working on various projects. Your previous experience and professional portfolio are your leverage when finding more work. 

 

The stronger your technical base and work portfolio are, the better your chances of landing a web developer role. Aspiring web developers should know that web development is a continuous field of learning and refining your skills and specialisations. 

 

Staying updated with the latest tech trends and undertaking courses related to innovative technologies within your area will help you excel in this role.

 

 

How To Become A Web Developer Fast?

 

Many aspiring Web Developers attend coding boot camps to gain hands-on learning experience and develop job-ready skills in 12 weeks. Coding boot camps are intensive training courses designed on the practical fundamentals of computer programming.

 

Students who undertake these courses can learn coding skills and develop the technical ability to make a career in programming.

 

These courses are delivered online, in person, or combination. The best part of these courses is that you don't need previous coding experience to join a Bootcamp. Consider pursuing a relevant diploma with a coding Bootcamp to improve your entry into this profession.

 

 

How To Become A Web Developer For Free?

 

You can become a self-taught web developer with numerous free online courses. If you can study full-time, you can become job-ready in 8-12 months.

 

Here are a few free web development courses online designed for beginners:

 

 

Free Code Camp

 

It covers web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, React.js, JavaScript, Node.js, and MongoDB. Those who complete the course receive a free certificate.

 

 

CS50's Introduction to Computer Science

 

The course introduces you to the art of programming and teaches you how to think logically and solve problems.

 

Topics covered are algorithms, abstraction, data structures, resource management, web security, encapsulation, software engineering, and web development. Web Programming languages include Python, C, SQL, JavaScript, CSS, and HTML.

 

 

Computer Programming by Khan Academy

 

The course covers web development technologies such as HTML, Javascript, jQuery, CSS, and SQL.

 

 

The Odin Project

 

You will learn web development technologies, including HTML, Javascript, Ruby, CSS, and Ruby on Rails.

 

 

Bento.io

 

Having multiple teaching sources is the key to an effective learning strategy. This learning website has over 100 online tutorials on web development covering web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, Python, SQL, Javascript, and Postgres. 

 

When mastering several web technologies, your career prospects will improve and make it easy to enter the profession.

 

 

Foundations of Front-end Web Development by Udemy

 

This course is ideal for beginners to develop the basic foundation in front-end development and responsive web design and quickly start a career as a Junior Front End Developer.

 

You will learn web development technologies such as HTML, Javascript, jQuery, CSS, and Backbone.js. Besides becoming a proficient web designer, you also earn a free certificate of completion.

 

 

Modern Web Design by The Gymnasium

 

The course walks you through the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and prepares you to become a front-end developer. After successful completion, you also receive a free certificate.

 

 

UpSkill Essential Web Developer Course

 

This web development course covers multiple front-end and back-end technologies such as Javascript, CSS, Ruby on Rails, HTML, React.js, and SQL. It is an ideal course for those who aspire to become full-stack developers.

 

Based on your interests, you can learn from the best online tutorials and courses to develop dozens of portfolio-worthy projects, from simple scripts to fully functional software programs, online games, social media platforms, and deployed websites.

 

 

What Are The Different Specialisations In Web Development?

 

"Web developer" is an umbrella term that comprises different categories based on skill level and area of expertise. The backend, front-end, and database technology all work together to develop and run a fully functional website.

 

As web development involves multiple tasks, web developers can specialise in any of the following areas of this process.

 

These include:

 

• User Interface Developers: They are involved in the initial design or redesign of a website based on the user's requirements and the business's goals

 

• Front-End Developer: They write the code for the design that a UI developer creates and are responsible for the general appearance, layout, images, graphics, and content of a website

 

• Backend Developers: They build the foundation and architecture of a website and ensure the correct incorporation of function and design

 

• Full-Stack Developer: They work on the client-side as well as server-side of the software application and translate user needs into the overall website architecture and implement the new systems

 

• WordPress Developers: They work as front-end or back-end developers to develop content and create functional and alluring websites using the content management system WordPress.

 

• Mobile Web Developer: These professionals use JavaScript-based frameworks, HTML5 development technologies, and various other techniques to design websites, software, and systems that work efficiently on mobile phones.

 

• Web Security Developers: They develop security software and integrate them into the existing website architecture during its design and development phase to strengthen the website's security

 

• User Experience Designers: They create website structures and wireframes based on their intent of use and end users of the website. They organise the website content across web pages and applications and test the structure to ensure optimal functionality and ease of navigation.

 

• Webmasters focus mainly on maintaining websites and webpages and performing routine maintenance to ensure the website is secured and updated.

 

 

11. Conclusion

 

Becoming a Web developer is undoubtedly a challenging yet emotionally and financially rewarding experience. The profession allows you to perform vital tasks that sustain the digital society.

 

With the constantly rising need to digitise and meet the growing demands of online consumers, taking up this profession can assure you of a stable career with varied opportunities for specialisation and advancement both within and outside the industry.

 

Follow the above steps to kickstart your professional journey in web development today.

 

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