How to Work Remotely for a UK Company From Australia

Working remotely for a British company while living in Australia can open up career opportunities that you might never find through a traditional Australian job search.

Instead of limiting yourself to local employers, you could potentially work for a London-based technology company, a UK software startup or an international business with employees spread across several countries.

For Australians interested in technology, marketing, finance, sales or other digital professions, the United Kingdom is another employment market worth exploring.

But can you actually work remotely for a UK company without moving overseas?

Yes. Australians can work remotely for UK companies while living in Australia, provided the employer supports Australian-based workers and the arrangement complies with applicable employment and tax laws.

You generally don't need a UK work visa if you're performing all your duties physically from Australia. However, you must have the appropriate right to work in Australia, and the British employer needs a suitable arrangement for engaging you.

That distinction matters because not every UK job advertised as remote accepts Australian applicants.

Some positions are restricted to people living in the United Kingdom. Others require employees to attend a London office occasionally, even when most work is performed from home.

Certain British companies recruit internationally through local entities, global employment providers or independent contractor agreements.

There are also practical considerations. The UK and Australia have a substantial time difference, salaries may be advertised in British pounds, and employment entitlements can differ depending on your contract.

In this guide, we'll explain how to find UK companies hiring Australians remotely, which careers offer the best opportunities, how international employment works, what to know about tax and how to evaluate a British remote job offer.

Can You Work for a UK Company While Living in Australia?

Yes. A company doesn't necessarily need to be headquartered in Australia to engage someone working from Australia.

For example, a software developer living in Melbourne could work for a British technology business.

A marketing manager in Brisbane might manage digital campaigns for a London-based company.

An Australian customer success specialist could support Asia-Pacific customers for a software business headquartered in the UK.

The key is finding an employer willing and able to hire someone in your location.

Does Remote Mean You Can Work From Australia?

Not always.

Job advertisements use the word remote in several ways.

Job advertisement	What it may mean
Remote — UK	Usually restricted to UK-based applicants
Remote — London	May require residence near London
Remote — Europe	Usually restricted to eligible European countries
Remote — EMEA	Europe, Middle East and Africa; Australia generally excluded
Remote — Worldwide	Potentially open internationally, subject to restrictions
Remote — APAC	May include Australia, depending on the employer
Remote — Australia	Explicitly targets Australian-based applicants
Remote — UK working hours	Location may be flexible, but hours require clarification

A position advertised as fully remote in London may still require you to live in the UK.

Before applying, check whether Australia is an eligible hiring location.

Do You Need a UK Work Visa to Work Remotely From Australia?

Generally, no.

If you're physically located in Australia and performing all your work here, you don't normally need British immigration permission simply because the employer is based in the United Kingdom.

UK work visas generally concern people seeking permission to undertake work while physically present in the UK.

However, if the job requires you to travel to Britain, the situation may change.

What If You Need to Visit the UK for Meetings?

Some international employers organise company gatherings, training sessions or customer meetings.

Depending on the activities, a business visit may be permitted under relevant visitor rules.

Other activities may require specific work authorisation.

Don't assume that a visitor entry arrangement permits every form of work.

Check the current UK government immigration guidance before travelling and obtain appropriate advice where necessary.

Your Australian working rights are also important.

How UK Companies Can Hire Australians Remotely

There are several ways a British company might engage someone living in Australia.

Understanding these arrangements is essential before accepting an offer.

1. Employment Through an Australian Entity

Some UK businesses operate Australian subsidiaries or employing entities.

In this situation, you may be employed locally while reporting to managers or colleagues based overseas.

Your contract and payroll arrangements may resemble those of an Australian employer.

For example, the company may pay your salary in Australian dollars, withhold Australian income tax and make applicable superannuation contributions.

This can be a relatively straightforward arrangement for employees.

However, always confirm which legal entity is employing you.

2. Employment Through an Employer of Record

Some British businesses use an employer of record, commonly called an EOR.

An EOR is a service provider that employs workers locally on behalf of another business.

For example, a London software company might use an Australian employment provider to hire a developer based in Sydney.

The Australian provider handles relevant employment administration, while the employee performs work for the British business.

Depending on the arrangement, this may include payroll, tax withholding, superannuation and employment documentation.

An EOR can make international hiring possible without the UK business establishing its own Australian subsidiary.

3. Independent Contracting

Some British businesses engage Australians as independent contractors.

Instead of receiving an employee salary, you provide services under a commercial agreement.

You might invoice the company monthly in Australian dollars or British pounds.

Contracting is common in professions such as software development, marketing, design and consulting.

However, describing someone as a contractor doesn't automatically determine their legal status.

The actual relationship matters.

A genuine contractor may have different responsibilities for tax, insurance, business expenses and leave.

Employee vs Contractor: What Should You Choose?

Neither arrangement is automatically better.

The most suitable option depends on the work, legal classification and compensation.

Factor	Employment	Independent contracting
Payment	Salary or wages	Contract fees
Paid annual leave	Depends on applicable employment entitlements	Generally not provided
Superannuation	Employer obligations may apply	Depends on the arrangement
Tax withholding	Often handled through payroll	Often managed by contractor
Business expenses	May be employer-funded	Often contractor-funded
Income security	Depends on contract	Depends on client agreement
Equipment	Depends on employer	Depends on contract

A contractor agreement offering a higher gross amount may not be more valuable than an employee position once unpaid leave and business expenses are considered.

Compare the full financial arrangement.

Best Remote Jobs With UK Companies for Australians

Some professions are particularly suitable for working with British employers from Australia.

These generally involve responsibilities that can be completed digitally and don't require regular physical attendance.

1. Software Development

British technology businesses may recruit developers to build applications, websites, APIs and software platforms.

Relevant positions include frontend developer, backend developer, full stack engineer and senior software engineer.

2. Cybersecurity

Some cybersecurity engineering, security analysis and governance responsibilities can be performed remotely.

However, certain positions may require UK residency, security clearances or specific legal eligibility.

3. Cloud Engineering and DevOps

Cloud engineers maintain infrastructure and automation systems.

These positions can be compatible with distributed teams, although on-call requirements may involve overseas working hours.

4. Digital Marketing

Marketing specialists can manage online advertising, SEO, email campaigns and analytics for British businesses.

5. Customer Success

UK software companies serving Australian or Asia-Pacific customers may recruit professionals based in the region.

These positions can be particularly suitable because customer working hours may align with Australian business hours.

6. Business-to-Business Sales

International software and technology companies sometimes recruit Australian account executives to develop regional markets.

Relevant roles include account executive, business development manager and enterprise account manager.

7. Product Management

Product managers coordinate product strategy, development and commercial priorities.

Some international technology businesses operate distributed product teams.

8. Graphic Design and UX Design

Digital designers can work remotely on interfaces, websites, brand materials and software products.

9. Content Writing

Some UK businesses hire writers, editors and content marketers internationally.

However, employers may prefer writers familiar with British spelling, terminology and audiences.

10. Finance and Accounting

Certain finance positions can be performed remotely, particularly where businesses use cloud-based systems.

However, roles involving UK-specific accounting or taxation may require relevant qualifications and local expertise.

11. Recruitment

Recruiters may work remotely sourcing candidates, conducting interviews and coordinating hiring processes.

However, recruiting for UK employers may require substantial overlap with British business hours.

12. Business Operations

Operations coordinators, business analysts and project managers may work with international teams through online systems.

Which UK Companies Offer International Remote Jobs?

Several UK-headquartered or UK-associated businesses are worth researching.

However, a distributed working policy doesn't mean every vacancy accepts Australian applicants.

Canonical

Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu.

It has operated with a distributed workforce since its early years and advertises home-based positions across engineering, sales, finance and other functions.

Some positions are labelled worldwide, while others are restricted to EMEA, the Americas or APAC.

Canonical also expects employees to participate in periodic in-person company gatherings, with travel requirements that can be significant.

Always check the specific role's location and travel conditions.

Wise

Wise is an international financial technology business founded in London.

It operates across multiple countries, including Australia.

Its careers are worth exploring for technology, operations, financial services and customer-related positions.

However, Wise's international presence doesn't mean all roles are fully remote.

Revolut

Revolut is a UK-founded financial technology business with international operations.

Potentially relevant roles include engineering, risk, compliance, product and business operations.

Working arrangements and eligible locations vary by position.

GoCardless

GoCardless is a UK-founded payments technology company.

It operates internationally and is worth researching for software engineering, commercial and operational roles.

Check whether any advertised Australian position is fully remote.

SafetyCulture

SafetyCulture is an Australian-founded global technology company with a UK presence.

Although not a UK-headquartered employer, it can be relevant for Australians seeking opportunities with internationally operating software businesses.

Check current remote working policies and vacancies.

These are examples of employers to research, not a verified list of companies currently offering Australian-eligible fully remote vacancies.

How Much Can You Earn Working Remotely for a UK Company?

Your earnings depend on the profession, seniority, employer and employment arrangement.

Some British companies pay Australian employees according to Australian salary benchmarks.

Others use international salary bands or negotiate compensation individually.

Certain contractor agreements may be denominated in British pounds.

Converting British Salaries to Australian Dollars

Imagine a UK employer advertises a salary of £50,000.

At an assumed exchange rate of £1 = A$2.00, that would equal A$100,000.

The following table illustrates different salaries using that hypothetical rate.

UK salary	Illustrative AUD equivalent
£30,000	A$60,000
£40,000	A$80,000
£50,000	A$100,000
£60,000	A$120,000
£75,000	A$150,000
£90,000	A$180,000
£100,000	A$200,000

These are mathematical examples, not current exchange-rate quotations or typical salaries for Australians employed by British companies.

Currency conversion doesn't account for tax, superannuation, payment fees or differences in employment benefits.

Will a UK Company Pay You a British Salary?

Not necessarily.

A company may use location-based compensation.

For example, the salary offered to someone working in London might differ from the salary offered to an employee living in Melbourne.

Ask whether the advertised range applies to Australian residents.

Compare Base Salary With the Total Package

British salary advertisements and Australian employment offers may use different conventions.

Confirm whether the amount includes employer superannuation contributions, bonuses or other benefits.

If you're comparing an Australian employee position with an international contractor agreement, remember that contractor revenue isn't equivalent to employee salary.

UK vs Australian Time Zones: What Hours Would You Work?

Time zones are one of the biggest practical challenges of working for a British employer.

London and Australia's eastern states are separated by a substantial time difference.

The difference changes during the year because the UK and parts of Australia observe daylight saving time on different dates.

Example: London Business Hours in Melbourne

UK working hours	Approximate Melbourne time
9 am–5 pm during UK summer, Melbourne winter	6 pm–2 am
9 am–5 pm during UK winter, Melbourne summer	8 pm–4 am

These are representative seasonal conversions. The offset differs during transition periods when the UK and Victoria change clocks on different dates.

For Australians living in Perth, the overlap is different again because Western Australia doesn't observe daylight saving time.

Can You Work Australian Business Hours?

Yes, if the employer allows it.

Some British companies recruit Australian staff specifically to support customers across Australia, New Zealand or Asia.

Others operate asynchronously, allowing employees to complete much of their work without being online simultaneously.

However, certain positions require daily meetings with UK colleagues.

Questions to Ask About Working Hours

Before accepting an offer, ask:

• Which time zone does the team primarily operate in?
• Are working hours fixed?
• How much daily overlap is required?
• Are meetings regularly scheduled during Australian evenings?
• Is overnight work expected?
• Does the role support APAC customers?
• Are occasional international meetings required?

A well-paid position may become difficult to sustain if the working hours consistently interfere with your sleep or personal life.

How Does Australian Tax Work When You're Paid by a UK Company?

Working for a British employer doesn't automatically mean you pay British income tax instead of Australian income tax.

Tax obligations depend on your residency, where you physically perform the work and the nature of the income.

According to the Australian Taxation Office, Australian tax residents generally need to declare worldwide income, subject to applicable exemptions and special rules.

This can include income received from overseas employers or clients.

Do You Pay Australian Income Tax?

Generally, if you're an Australian tax resident performing work in Australia, your earnings from a UK employer will be relevant to your Australian income tax obligations.

However, tax residency is separate from citizenship and can involve additional rules.

Certain temporary residents may also have special tax treatment.

If your circumstances are complicated, seek professional advice.

Do You Pay UK Income Tax?

Not necessarily.

UK tax treatment generally considers whether you're a UK tax resident and where employment duties are physically performed.

HM Revenue & Customs explains that for non-UK residents, the location where employment duties are performed is an important factor in determining UK taxation.

If you're a non-UK resident performing all your employment duties in Australia, the income will not ordinarily become UK-taxable merely because the employer is British.

However, UK tax residency, duties performed in Britain and special circumstances can change the outcome.

What About the Australia–UK Tax Treaty?

Australia and the United Kingdom have a double taxation agreement.

Tax treaties can help determine taxing rights and provide relief where income is subject to tax in both countries.

However, the outcome depends on the circumstances.

Don't assume a tax treaty automatically eliminates all foreign tax obligations.

What If Your UK Employer Doesn't Withhold Australian Tax?

Some foreign employers don't operate Australian payroll withholding.

The ATO notes that foreign employers not registered for Australian PAYG withholding may not deduct Australian tax from employee payments.

In that situation, you may need to plan for your own tax liabilities.

Don't assume the full amount deposited into your bank account is available to spend.

Do You Need an ABN to Work for a British Company?

Not necessarily.

If you're an employee, you don't automatically need an Australian Business Number simply because your employer is overseas.

However, if you're genuinely operating an independent business and providing services to a UK client, an ABN may be appropriate.

The distinction between employment and contracting depends on the actual arrangement.

An employer shouldn't simply label a worker as a contractor to avoid obligations that may otherwise apply.

If you're unsure whether you're operating a business, review guidance from the Australian Business Register and the ATO.

Do You Charge GST to UK Clients?

Australian businesses providing services to overseas customers may be able to treat certain supplies as GST-free.

However, the rules depend on the nature of the services, the recipient and other circumstances.

For example, some exported services supplied to non-residents outside Australia can qualify for GST-free treatment.

Other services may have different GST consequences.

Australian businesses generally need to register for GST when their GST turnover reaches the relevant threshold, commonly $75,000.

GST-free supplies can still count towards GST turnover.

If you're contracting with a UK business, check the specific rules before issuing invoices.

Does a UK Company Have to Pay Australian Superannuation?

It depends on the arrangement and applicable Australian law.

If you're employed through an Australian subsidiary or employer of record, superannuation obligations may apply through the local employment arrangement.

If you're employed directly by a foreign company, the legal position requires closer examination.

The ATO has published guidance for foreign-resident employers explaining that Australian tax and superannuation obligations depend on the facts and circumstances of employees working remotely from Australia.

Some contractor arrangements can also give rise to superannuation obligations.

Before accepting an offer, ask whether superannuation is included and who is responsible for contributions.

What Employment Rights Apply?

Working for a UK company doesn't automatically mean you're entitled to every benefit available under a standard British employment contract.

Equally, working in Australia doesn't mean every foreign employment arrangement is identical to working for an Australian employer.

The legal position depends on the employing entity, employment contract and applicable laws.

The Fair Work Ombudsman explains that Australian-based employees of non-Australian employers may have different entitlements under the national workplace relations system.

For example, the availability of certain protections can depend on whether an enterprise agreement applies.

This is why you should confirm the legal employer and contractual terms before accepting a position.

Important Contract Details

Review:

• Legal employer and country of incorporation.
• Employee or contractor classification.
• Base salary and payment currency.
• Australian tax withholding arrangements.
• Superannuation contributions.
• Annual leave and personal leave.
• Public holidays.
• Working hours and time-zone expectations.
• Equipment and home office expenses.
• Termination provisions.
• Applicable law and dispute resolution.
• Required travel.

If the contract is unusual or involves substantial compensation, independent employment and tax advice may be worthwhile.

Where to Find UK Companies Hiring Australians Remotely

Finding suitable positions requires a targeted approach.

Searching only for "remote jobs UK" will often return vacancies restricted to people living in Britain.

Instead, combine your profession with terms indicating Australian eligibility.

1. Search UK Company Career Websites

Many British businesses advertise vacancies directly through their own career pages.

Look for Australia, APAC, ANZ or worldwide location options.

2. Search International Technology Companies

British software and technology businesses may operate distributed teams across several countries.

However, check whether the employer can actually hire someone in Australia.

3. Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn Jobs can help you research UK-headquartered companies with Australian remote vacancies.

Search by job title and Australia as the working location rather than relying exclusively on UK search results.

4. Explore Specialist Recruitment Agencies

Some recruiters work with international technology, finance and professional services employers.

5. Consider Contract Opportunities

If you're interested in independent contracting, you may find opportunities to provide services to British clients.

However, evaluate the commercial terms and tax implications carefully.

6. Search Dedicated Remote Job Boards

Remote-focused platforms can help you discover international vacancies published through employer recruitment websites.

Useful Search Terms for UK Remote Jobs in Australia

Try searches such as:

• UK companies hiring remotely in Australia
• Work remotely for UK company from Australia
• British companies hiring Australian remote workers
• UK remote jobs Australia
• London companies hiring remotely in Australia
• Remote UK jobs worldwide
• Remote UK jobs APAC
• UK software companies hiring Australia
• Remote customer success manager UK company Australia
• Remote software engineer UK company Australia
• UK startups hiring internationally
• Remote UK contractor jobs Australia
• British companies with Australian remote employees
• International remote jobs hiring Australians
• UK headquartered companies remote Australia

Be cautious with searches containing only "remote UK".

Many results will be restricted to UK residents.

Find International Remote Opportunities on Deskless

Deskless is a dedicated remote job board featuring opportunities sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.

Rather than relying exclusively on traditional recruitment platforms, Deskless helps job seekers discover remote vacancies published through employer career pages.

This can include opportunities across software development, sales, marketing, finance, customer success, administration and other professions when available.

New remote opportunities are added daily, and the platform operates through a paid membership model.

However, not every international vacancy accepts Australian applicants.

You'll need to review each job description to confirm country eligibility, salary, employment arrangements and time-zone requirements.

Explore Remote Jobs on Deskless

How to Apply for UK Remote Jobs From Australia

International applications benefit from a little extra preparation.

Step 1: Confirm Australian Eligibility

Check whether the employer accepts applicants living in Australia.

If the advertisement is unclear, ask the recruiter before spending time on a lengthy application.

Step 2: Tailor Your CV

British employers commonly use the term CV.

For many professional positions, a concise, relevant CV is appropriate.

Highlight experience directly related to the responsibilities.

Step 3: Demonstrate Relevant Achievements

Use measurable examples where possible.

For example, a sales professional might discuss revenue growth, while an operations professional might describe process improvements.

Step 4: Highlight Remote Working Experience

Explain your ability to work independently and collaborate through online systems.

Experience with distributed teams can be useful.

Step 5: State Your Location Clearly

Identify yourself as based in Australia.

Don't imply you're based in London or elsewhere in the UK.

Step 6: Prepare for UK Interview Times

Interviews may be scheduled during Australian evenings.

Confirm the time zone and date carefully.

Step 7: Clarify the Employment Arrangement

Ask whether the company offers Australian employment, an EOR arrangement or independent contracting.

Step 8: Review the Complete Offer

Consider salary, currency, tax, superannuation, leave, equipment and working hours.

Example Email: Asking a UK Employer Whether They Hire Australians

If you find a suitable vacancy but the location requirements aren't clear, you can send a short enquiry.

Subject: Remote Position – Australian Applicant

Hi [Hiring Manager],

I'm interested in the [Job Title] position and wanted to confirm whether the company considers applicants based in Australia.

I understand the role is advertised as remote, but wanted to check whether Australian-based employment or contracting is supported.

I'd appreciate any clarification before submitting my application.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

This can save time if the company isn't able to recruit in Australia.

How to Avoid UK Remote Job Scams

International recruitment scams sometimes involve people impersonating legitimate businesses.

Before sharing personal information, verify the employer and job advertisement.

Be cautious if a recruiter requests upfront payments, asks you to transfer money or directs you to purchase equipment through an unfamiliar supplier.

Check whether the vacancy appears on the company's official careers website.

Verify recruiter contact details independently.

Don't assume that a British telephone number or professional-looking website proves a business is legitimate.

The Australian Government's Scamwatch provides guidance on employment scams.

Common Mistakes Australians Make When Applying for UK Remote Jobs

Assuming UK Remote Means Worldwide

Many British remote positions are restricted to people living in the United Kingdom.

Applying Without Checking Time Zones

UK business hours can mean evening or overnight work in Australia.

Assuming British Salaries Apply Globally

Some employers adjust compensation based on employee location.

Confusing Pounds With Australian Dollars

Always confirm the currency and calculate a realistic conversion.

Ignoring Employment Classification

Employee and contractor arrangements have different implications.

Assuming UK Tax Automatically Applies

Tax treatment depends on residency and where duties are performed.

Overlooking Australian Tax

Australian tax residents generally need to declare relevant worldwide income.

Forgetting About Superannuation

Confirm whether Australian superannuation obligations apply and how they're handled.

Relying on Verbal Promises

Important working arrangements should be confirmed in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely for a UK company from Australia?

Yes. Some British businesses employ or contract Australian residents remotely. The employer must support an appropriate international arrangement.

Do I need a UK work visa to work from Australia?

Generally, no, if all work is physically performed in Australia. Travelling to the UK to perform work can involve separate immigration requirements.

Can I earn a UK salary while living in Australia?

Potentially. However, some employers use location-adjusted salary bands, so advertised UK salaries may not apply to Australian-based workers.

Do I pay Australian tax if I work for a British company?

Australian tax residents generally need to declare assessable worldwide income, including relevant income from overseas employment.

Do I have to pay UK income tax?

Not necessarily. For non-UK residents, the location where employment duties are performed is an important factor. UK tax residency and duties physically performed in Britain can change the result.

Do I need an ABN to work for a UK company?

Not simply because the employer is British. An ABN may be appropriate if you're genuinely operating an independent business.

Do UK companies pay Australian superannuation?

It depends on the employment arrangement and applicable obligations. Confirm the position before accepting an offer.

Can I work Australian business hours for a UK company?

Yes, if the employer allows it. APAC-focused and asynchronous positions may be more suitable than jobs requiring full UK office hours.

Are UK remote jobs available without a degree?

Some are. Sales, customer success, digital marketing, administration and certain technology positions may consider applicants without university qualifications.

Where can I find UK companies hiring Australians remotely?

Search British company career websites, LinkedIn, international recruiters and dedicated remote job boards such as Deskless.

Final Thoughts

Working remotely for a UK company from Australia can be an excellent way to expand your career opportunities without relocating overseas.

British technology companies, international software businesses and distributed employers may offer positions across a wide range of professions.

However, the most important step is confirming that the company can actually hire someone based in Australia.

A vacancy advertised as remote in London doesn't automatically mean Australian applicants are eligible.

Before accepting an offer, establish whether you'll be employed through an Australian entity, an employer of record or an independent contractor agreement.

You should also review the salary currency, tax treatment, superannuation, leave entitlements and working hours.

Time zones deserve particular attention because standard UK office hours often fall during Australian evenings or overnight.

If possible, prioritise businesses recruiting for Australia or Asia-Pacific positions, or companies with genuinely asynchronous working arrangements.

Most importantly, expand your search beyond traditional employment websites. Many international businesses publish vacancies directly through their own career pages, and exploring these opportunities can help you discover employers you might otherwise overlook.

Ready to explore remote jobs with international employers?

Explore remote jobs on Deskless and discover opportunities sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.

Find remote positions across technology, sales, marketing, finance, customer success and more, and take the next step towards a career that isn't limited by where your employer is headquartered.