From redundancy to reinvention: How Michelle empowers migrants into meaningful work
Michelle Yau-James (also known as Michelle James) is the founder of AUS Career Coach, a career development business dedicated to helping overseas professionals, skilled migrants, graduates, and international students successfully transition into the Australian workforce. Originally from Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, Michelle has built a diverse career across a wide range of industries, holding roles in business development, sales, customer service, administration, and marketing. Her professional background spans banking and finance, engineering, telecommunications, education, print, ogistics, advertising, supply chain, and real estate.
Michelle has spent over 15 years consulting migrants into nationally recognised training courses, helping them gain the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in the Australian job market. Her in-depth knowledge of education pathways, combined with her strong employer network, has enabled her to connect clients with both learning and employment opportunities.
After being made redundant in December 2015, Michelle transformed a career setback into a powerful opportunity. In January 2016, she founded AUS Career Coach, using her expertise and lived experience to support others navigating similar challenges. Over the years, she has established strong connections with local employers across multiple industries, enabling her to create real employment pathways for her clients.
Michelle plays a key role in empowering job seekers into meaningful employment, offering tailored coaching, interview preparation, and job placement support.
Michelle has held the position of Director at Pinewood Community Financial Services Limited, where she contributes her skills and community insight to support local financial initiatives. She is also an active community volunteer, having contributed to several NGOs including Friends of the Children Foundation Inc. and Rotary Club of Waverley.
In 2020, Michelle was honoured with the Sir John Monash Award for Inspirational Women’s Leadership in recognition of her outstanding service and leadership in the community. She also led the COVID Recovery Community Project, an initiative supporting individuals facing mental health challenges and social isolation during the pandemic.
With a strong belief in equity, inclusion, and the transformative power of employment and education, Michelle continues to be a passionate advocate for social justice, opening doors for marginalised individuals and creating pathways to brighter futures across Australia.
Michelle James
M: 0408 216 740 E: Michelle@auscareercoach.com.au