Yes, especially civil engineers. Natalie describes employers, particularly in regional Australia, who are "crying out" for engineers. There's even a not-for-profit focused solely on placing engineers who don't speak English as a first language. The demand is real.

Only in specific cases. If you need permanent residency or you're enrolling in a university that requires it, yes. Otherwise, no. Natalie taught IELTS for four years and stopped because it doesn't teach real English — it teaches you how to pass a test. Don't study for it unless you genuinely need it.

Less than you think. Natalie's core message: use the English you have. Communication isn't about collecting more vocabulary or more idioms; it's about expressing yourself authentically. Getting nervous, forgetting a word, asking someone to repeat themselves - that's normal. Native speakers do it too.

Relaxed and traditional at the same time. There's small talk, after-work drinks, and a friendly tone — but punctuality matters, and the line between work and home is firm. Don't let the casual vibe fool you into underestimating the professionalism expected.

Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. It gives your answer a structure so you tell a clear story instead of over-explaining or trailing off. Interviews are storytelling, and STAR keeps you on track.
Because your English probably isn't the thing holding you back — the cultural layer is. And that's learnable.