Working hours for international students have changed: What you need to know
With our excellent education system and vibrant multicultural society, it’s little wonder Australia is a popular destination for international students. Additionally, we offer students the ability to work while studying, with more hours and flexibility than in countries like the UK and USA.
During your studies, you can take the opportunity to find a part-time or casual job, helping to support yourself financially, meet new people and gain valuable work experience.
It's important you are up to date with the working rights of international students, which may affect how you balance your work and study commitments. Read on to find out what they mean for you.
Can international students work in Australia?
Yes! As an international student studying in Australia, you can work part-time while pursuing your education. This doesn’t just give you an opportunity to make some money but is also a fantastic way to gain exposure to the local job market and expand your career options.
There are plenty of sectors that offer great part-time or casual jobs for students, with flexible hours and multiple roles available. Retail and hospitality jobs are two popular options, and there is a lot of demand for workers in aged care and administration as well.
However, finding employment in Australia requires some effort and preparation. To help get you started, universities and other education providers often provide career services to support you on your job hunt. Make the most of online job search portals, like SEEK and LinkedIn, and look for networking opportunities to increase your chances of securing a role.
While international students are permitted to work, it is important to keep up with your studies and maintain your attendance and grades. Certain visa subclasses may have different rules for working as an international student, so make sure you understand your visa conditions before you start your search.
What are the working rights in Australia?
The Australian Government have regulations around international student working rights that give you flexibility and will help you to live comfortably while staying focused on your studies.
You are able to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester. You are also allowed to work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, such as over the summer or winter holidays.
Keep in mind that exceeding the allowed working hours can have serious consequences, including visa cancellation, and your employer is not allowed to ask you to breach your visa conditions. Keep an eye on your working hours to make sure you’re not breaking the rules.
Where can you find information about working in Australia?
The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) websites are the best places to go to find accurate and up-to-date information about working in Australia.
The FWO is a valuable resource for workplace rights, and provides information on minimum wage, working conditions, and employee entitlements. It also offers resources tailored specifically for international students to help you understand your rights and obligations as an employee in Australia, ensuring fair treatment and preventing any potential exploitation.
The DHA provides detailed information on visa requirements and restrictions. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions of your specific visa subclass.
While the recent changes have brought about some adjustments to international student working rights, know you are still able to work during your studies in Australia. Make the most of your time here by balancing your work and study commitments, and keep an eye out for updates so you can stay on top of any future changes.