Apply Now: Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (Australia)

Deadline: 05-Nov-2026

The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is accepting applications from eligible Australian nationals for positions supporting language education and international exchange in Japan. Participants can apply for roles as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) or Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs). Participants receive annual remuneration of approximately ¥4.02 million in the first year, increasing to approximately ¥4.32 million in subsequent years for outstanding participants. The programme also provides transportation to Japan and onward travel to the participant’s placement location.

About the JET Programme

The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme provides opportunities for participants to work in Japan while contributing to foreign language education and international exchange.

The programme has two main positions:

- Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs): Assist with foreign language instruction in elementary, junior high, and senior high schools.

- Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs): Support international exchange activities in local government offices and communities. The programme aims to strengthen international understanding and communication by bringing participants from overseas into Japanese schools, local governments, and communities. Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) Position Assistant Language Teachers support foreign language education in Japanese schools.

ALTs may work in:

- Elementary schools. - Junior high schools. - Senior high schools. Applicants for ALT positions should have a strong interest in language education and working with children. Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) Position Coordinators for International Relations support international exchange activities within local government offices and communities. CIR applicants must have a functional command of Japanese, equivalent to approximately JLPT N1 or N2. The position is intended for applicants who can use Japanese effectively while supporting international exchange and communication activities. How Long Is the JET Appointment? JET participants are initially appointed for one year. The appointment may be renewed for additional periods, depending on: - Participant performance. - The needs of the contracting organisation.

Participants can potentially remain in the programme for a maximum of five years

Working Hours

JET participants generally work:

- Monday to Friday. - Approximately 35 hours per week. - At least 10 days of paid leave annually. Actual working arrangements may depend on the participant’s contracting organisation and placement. How Much Remuneration Is Available? JET participants receive annual remuneration that increases with additional years of participation.

The approximate annual remuneration is:

- First year: ¥4,020,000.

- Second year: ¥4,140,000.

- Third year: ¥4,260,000.

- Subsequent years: Up to approximately ¥4,320,000 for outstanding participants.

Monthly payments are subject to applicable deductions, including insurance and pension contributions. Travel Support The contracting organisation covers certain transportation costs associated with the participant’s arrival and placement in Japan.

Covered transportation includes:

- Travel to Japan. - Travel from the airport to the orientation venue. - Travel from the orientation venue to the participant’s placement location.

Participants are responsible for their own accommodation costs

Accommodation and Deductions JET participants are responsible for accommodation costs. In addition, deductions for insurance and pension contributions are made from monthly remuneration. Applicants should therefore consider these expenses when planning their finances for living and working in Japan. Who Can Apply? Applicants must meet the programme’s general eligibility requirements.

Applicants must:

- Be Australian nationals. - Hold at least a bachelor’s degree by the designated arrival date. - Be mentally and physically healthy. - Demonstrate a strong interest in Japan. - Have an interest in international exchange. Additional eligibility requirements depend on the position being sought. ALT Eligibility Requirements Applicants for Assistant Language Teacher positions should demonstrate: - An interest in foreign language education. - An interest in working with children. - A willingness to contribute to language learning in Japanese schools. ALTs assist with foreign language instruction at elementary, junior high, and senior high school levels. CIR Eligibility Requirements Applicants for Coordinator for International Relations positions must have a functional command of Japanese. The required Japanese ability is approximately equivalent to: - JLPT N1, or - JLPT N2. Applicants should be capable of using Japanese effectively in international exchange and local government settings. Previous JET Participation Restrictions Applicants must meet restrictions concerning previous participation in the JET Programme.

Applicants must not:

- Have participated in the JET Programme since March 2024. - Have participated in the JET Programme for more than six years in total. - Have resided in Japan for six or more consecutive years since 2017. Applicants with previous JET experience or extended residence in Japan should carefully check these restrictions before applying. Interest in Japan and International Exchange Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in Japan and international exchange. The programme provides an opportunity to contribute to language education and community-level international exchange while gaining professional and cultural experience in Japan. Applicants should therefore be prepared to participate actively in their schools, local government offices, and communities. How to Prepare a Strong Application Applicants should clearly demonstrate why they are suited to their chosen JET position.

A strong application should highlight:

- Interest in Japan. - Commitment to international