Janice Lozano
International students in Australia can work part-time, and there are many opportunities to do so. Students can work up to 48 hours in a fortnight (a period of 14 days) while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Students must ensure they do not exceed 20 hours of work per week to avoid going over their fortnightly limit. The Australian government allows all students the same privileges and workplace rights, including a minimum wage as stipulated under the Fair Work Act 2009.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students work part-time in Australia? | Yes |
| Visa requirements | Student Visa Subclass 500 |
| Maximum working hours | 48 hours in a fortnight (2-week period) from July 1, 2023; 20 hours per week on average |
| Working hours during breaks | Unlimited |
| Average hourly pay | AUD 15-25; AUD 40 according to one source |
| Average monthly salary | AUD 67,554 |
| Minimum wage | As per Fair Work Act 2009 |
| Workplace rights | Same as everyone else working in Australia |
| Types of jobs | Retail, hospitality, service/industry, delivery, cleaning, driving, customer service, administration, events, etc. |
| Volunteering | Doesn't count towards permitted working hours |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time work hour limits
International students in Australia are allowed to work part-time, but there are limits to the number of hours they can work. Students on a Student Visa are limited to 20 work hours per week or 48 hours per fortnight (a 2-week period) while their course is in session. During scheduled course breaks, there is no limit to the number of hours they can work.
The fortnight's 48-hour limit can be divided at the student's convenience. For example, a student may work 10 hours in week one and 30 hours in week two, or 15 and 25 hours, respectively. However, if a student works for 30 hours in week two, they can only work for 10 hours the following week, or they will breach the 48-hour fortnightly limit. Therefore, students looking for continuous part-time work should ideally limit their work to about 20 hours a week.
Volunteering work does not count towards the permitted working hours. Additionally, casual employment does not require international students to work a certain number of hours per week and can often be flexible around university study.
International students in Australia can find part-time work in various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and service or industry. Part-time jobs can include working in convenience stores, supermarkets, customer service centres, and restaurants. They can also work as delivery agents, cleaners, or drivers. The average hourly pay for part-time jobs is AUD 15 to 25, but this varies depending on the type of job, hours worked, and location.
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Visa requirements
International students in Australia can work part-time, but they must ensure that they meet all visa requirements. Students must hold an Australian Government-approved full-time study programme and meet the minimum attendance and academic requirements set by their university.
Students on a Student Visa Subclass 500 can work up to 48 hours in a fortnight (a 14-day period from Monday to Sunday) while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This equates to around 20 hours per week on average. Students must ensure they do not exceed this limit, or their visa may be cancelled. Students can divide the hours as they wish, for example, working 10 hours in the first week and 30 in the second, but they must stay within the 48-hour limit for the full two-week period.
Students must also apply for a Tax File Number to work part-time, which can be done online. Volunteering work does not count towards the permitted working hours.
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Workplace rights
International students in Australia have the same workplace rights and protections as anyone else working in the country. These rights are protected and enforced by Australia's Fair Work Ombudsman.
As an international student, you have the right to a minimum wage as stipulated under the Fair Work Act 2009. You can also work for any number of hours during scheduled course breaks. While your course is in session, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (a period of 14 days starting on a Monday and ending on the Sunday of the following week). However, you must not exceed 20 hours of work per week.
If you believe you are not receiving your minimum rights and conditions at work, or are facing workplace issues, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free information and advice. The ombudsman can also help international students prepare for their new jobs and offers a range of free resources and tools, including a Guide to Starting a New Job and the Starting a New Job online course.
You have the right to talk about (or not talk about) your current or past pay and ask other employees to do the same. You also have the right not to be bullied, sexually harassed, or discriminated against at work. If you feel like any of these things are happening to you, you should contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for assistance.
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Job search strategies
International students in Australia are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (20 hours per week) when their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Students must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) to work part-time.
- Networking: Networking is a great way to meet new people and build relationships with people in your target industry and related organisations. Join student clubs, especially those related to your field of study. Connect with alumni or professionals working in roles you're interested in on LinkedIn. Attend career fairs to meet employers face-to-face.
- Online job portals: Use online career portals such as SEEK, Indeed, and Jora to search for job opportunities. These platforms allow you to filter and find jobs based on your preferences and requirements.
- University resources: Utilise your university's career support services, such as the Careers Centre, to help you with your job search. They can provide guidance, workshops, and resources to improve your employability skills, resume, and interview preparation.
- Work experience: Gaining work experience during your course is essential for standing out to employers. It demonstrates your interest in the field and equips you with valuable skills such as communication, teamwork, and accountability.
- Understand your rights: Know your working rights in Australia, including minimum pay, leave entitlements, and workplace health and safety. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides information and advice on work rights.
- Tailored applications: Prepare targeted applications for each role, with tailored resumes and cover letters. Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and how you can add value to the employer.
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Popular industries
International students in Australia are restricted to casual or part-time employment while studying, as full-time employment exceeds the allowable work hours for visa holders. As a casual employee, you will receive a higher hourly pay rate, but you won't be entitled to paid sick leave or annual leave. On the other hand, part-time employment offers benefits such as paid annual and sick leave, similar to full-time employees but on a pro-rata basis.
Some popular industries for international students to find part-time work in Australia include:
- Retail: This industry offers predictable hours that can easily align with study schedules. Many international students find jobs in retail, making it a good option for those seeking part-time work.
- Hospitality: Like retail, the hospitality industry offers consistent hours that can work well with class schedules. It is a common choice for international students seeking part-time employment.
- Office administration: Part-time office administration roles can provide international students with set hours each week, allowing for a good balance between work and academic commitments.
- Tutoring: Tutoring is another popular option for international students, allowing them to work flexible hours and share their knowledge and expertise with others.
The availability of part-time jobs in Australia for international students varies across different sectors and industries. While the income may not cover tuition fees, it can usually assist in maintaining a moderate living standard.
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