Lori Meadows
International students in Australia are entitled to the same minimum wage as domestic workers, which is currently AUD 24.94 per hour as of July 2025. This minimum wage is applicable to all employees in Australia, including those working part-time or casually, and it is designed to ensure fair compensation for workers while also supporting business sustainability. International students typically work in industries such as retail, hospitality, and administration, with some taking on roles in construction and labouring. While a part-time job can help international students financially, they must also navigate challenges like managing their studies, visa constraints, and language barriers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Minimum wage for international students | AUD 21.38 per hour |
| Minimum wage for international students as of July 2025 | AUD 24.94 per hour |
| Maximum working hours for international students | 48 hours per fortnight |
| Working hours during holidays | Unlimited |
| Visa conditions for international students | Subclass 500 |
| Work opportunities | Retail, hospitality, administrative, tutoring, construction, labouring, customer service, delivery, etc. |
| Rights | Workplace laws, minimum pay, workplace exploitation protections, etc. |
| Challenges | Language barriers, visa constraints, balancing work and studies |
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What You'll Learn
Minimum wage for international students in Australia as of 2025
As of 1 July 2025, the minimum wage in Australia has increased by 3.5% to $24.95 per hour (before tax). This means that international students working part-time are now entitled to the same minimum wage of $24.95 per hour, which equates to a minimum of $948 per week for full-time workers (before tax). This change was announced by the Australian Government's Fair Work Commission, which aims to ensure fair compensation for international students contributing to the Australian workforce.
Previously, the minimum wage in Australia was $24.13 per hour, effective from 1 July 2024. Before that, the minimum wage was $21.38 per hour, and international students were allowed to work up to 40 hours every fortnight. This amount may vary depending on the sector and nature of the work, with casual workers in certain industries receiving higher wages to compensate for a lack of benefits.
International students in Australia often take on part-time jobs in industries such as retail, hospitality, and administration. These jobs typically offer hourly wages between $21.38 and $35.00. Students may also work in construction and labouring jobs, earning between $800 and $1,500 per week. It is important to note that taxes for international students differ from those for Australian citizens, as they are considered non-residents for tax purposes.
While working part-time can help international students alleviate their finances, it is crucial to balance work and studies. Additionally, international students should be aware of their rights in the workplace, including minimum pay and conditions, to ensure they receive fair treatment and compensation.
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Part-time jobs for international students
As an international student in Australia, you are entitled to earn the same minimum wage as other workers. The minimum wage in Australia is $24.95 per hour (before tax), according to the latest update in July 2025. This rate reflects Australia's commitment to ensuring fair compensation for its workforce, including international students. Students can work up to 20 hours per fortnight.
Part-time jobs are a great way for international students to earn some money while studying in Australia. Here are some tips and suggestions for finding part-time work as an international student:
Understand your entitlements
Part-time employees in Australia work a set number of hours per week, usually less than 38 hours per week, and agree on a fixed number of hours with their employer. Both part-time and full-time employees are entitled to paid leave and written notice if their contract is terminated. Casual work is different, with no commitment to ongoing work and no entitlement to paid leave, but casual employees can take unlimited leave and receive a higher hourly rate.
Know the job market
International students in Australia often find work in the retail and hospitality industries, with hourly pay starting at the minimum wage. Some firms may offer higher pay based on experience and qualifications. Administrative and office positions, such as customer service agents, data entry clerks, and receptionists, typically offer higher hourly wages, ranging from AUD 22 to AUD 35.
Explore opportunities
There are various part-time job opportunities available for international students in Australia. You can find job vacancies online, on platforms like SEEK and Indeed. These platforms allow you to search for part-time jobs by industry, work type, location, and time commitment. You can also look for job noticeboards at your place of study or contact the careers or employability service at your education provider for advice and support.
Consider internships and volunteering
Internships and work placements are great options for international students in Australia, offering valuable experience and the potential for paid work. You can explore internship opportunities through your course curriculum, your education provider's career services, or local state or territory career services. Volunteering is another excellent way to gain experience, build your network, and boost your chances of finding paid work.
Examples of part-time jobs
- Delivery driver for food delivery companies or restaurants
- Room attendant or cleaner at hotels
- Student counsellor at your educational institution
- Administration and office support roles
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Visa requirements for international students working in Australia
International students in Australia on a valid student visa can work a limited number of hours while studying. As of 1 July 2023, the limit is 48 hours per fortnight (a 14-day period starting on a Monday and ending on a Sunday). There is no limit on the number of hours an international student can work during recognised school vacations.
To obtain a student visa, international students must first be accepted into an Australian educational institute. They will then need to supply a confirmation of enrolment issued by the Australian educational institution as part of their visa application. Students are required to pursue a consistent study program that has been approved by the Australian government and must fulfil all the requirements of the program, as well as maintaining satisfactory attendance. Students must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Family members accompanying the international student under their student visa have the same work rights as the student. Students with dependants must ensure that their dependants adhere to the work hour restrictions set out in the visa conditions.
International students must be aware of their tax responsibilities and ensure they follow Australian tax regulations. As non-residents, the tax rates they pay are based on their income.
It is important to note that engaging in illegal employment or working more hours than permitted may result in visa cancellation and deportation. Students can undertake volunteer and unpaid work, which does not count towards their visa work hour limits, as long as their main purpose in Australia remains their studies.
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Tax regulations for international students
International students in Australia are subject to specific tax regulations. These regulations can be daunting, especially for those new to the country, but understanding them is essential to staying compliant and avoiding penalties.
Firstly, international students working and earning wages in Australia are generally required to pay tax on their income. The income tax rate for students working part-time is typically around 15.5% of their earnings. However, this rate may vary depending on individual circumstances, such as their residency status for tax purposes. International students are typically considered non-residents for tax purposes, and their tax rates are based on their income level.
It is important to note that the tax-free threshold in Australia is $18,200. If an international student's income exceeds this threshold, they are required to lodge a tax return. Additionally, if they have paid tax but earned below the threshold, lodging a return is still advisable as they may be eligible for a refund. International students can also claim a refund of their superannuation, or retirement pension contributions, when they leave Australia.
The Australian financial year runs from July 1 to June 30, and the deadline to lodge tax returns and claim refunds is October 31. International students must submit a tax return at the end of the financial year, regardless of their income. This step is crucial for maintaining their tax affairs in order and avoiding penalties. Failure to lodge a tax return may result in fines and penalties from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
To ensure compliance and maximize deductions, it is recommended that international students seek professional advice or engage the services of an accountant when navigating their tax obligations in Australia.
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Challenges faced by international students working in Australia
International students in Australia face various challenges, including cultural differences, language barriers, homesickness, academic pressure, and financial constraints.
Cultural differences can be challenging for international students adjusting to life in Australia. Social norms, customs, and traditions may differ from what students are used to, leading to culture shock. Embracing diversity, learning about Australian culture, and participating in cultural activities can help ease this transition.
Language barriers pose another significant challenge. Students from non-English-speaking countries may struggle to communicate effectively with peers and professors, hindering academic performance and causing feelings of isolation. Improving English proficiency and seeking support can help international students overcome this hurdle.
Homesickness is common among international students, who may feel lonely and isolated away from their support systems. Regular communication with loved ones and participation in social activities can help combat these feelings.
The academic expectations in Australia are rigorous, and international students face intense pressure to excel in exams and assignments. The highly competitive education system, coupled with language and cultural barriers, adds to the academic challenges.
Financial constraints also present a significant hurdle for international students in Australia. Tuition fees and the cost of living can be substantial, impacting students' economic well-being. International students are considered non-residents for tax purposes, and understanding their tax obligations is crucial to avoid penalties.
International students seeking employment in Australia may encounter additional challenges. Balancing work and academic commitments can be demanding, and language barriers or visa constraints might deter employers. The right job can be challenging to find, especially in competitive industries.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 1 July 2025, the minimum wage in Australia is $24.94 per hour, or $24.95 per hour according to another source. This is a 3.5% increase from the previous minimum wage of $24.10 per hour.
The minimum wage in Australia was $24.10 per hour, or $24.13 according to another source.
International students in Australia are allowed to work up to 40 hours every fortnight during the academic year, and an unlimited number of hours during holidays. Students on a subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time. If an international student works more than 20 hours per week, they are entitled to the same minimum wage as domestic workers.
International students in Australia often work in retail and hospitality, with an average hourly minimum pay of 21.38. Other common part-time jobs include customer service roles, which pay an average of $26 per hour, and tutoring, which can pay between $25 to $50 per hour.
