For international students studying in Australia, part-time work is often an important part of their experience. Many students rely on part-time jobs to help cover living expenses, gain work experience, and improve their English skills. Fortunately, the Australian government allows student visa holders to work under certain conditions, but it’s essential that students understand their rights, obligations, and the rules regarding wages and working hours. Knowing these details can help students avoid visa breaches, workplace exploitation, and legal troubles
International students in Australia typically hold a subclass 500 student visa, which includes work rights. According to the latest regulations, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) during the academic semester. This limit was updated in 2023, after temporary COVID-19 adjustments had lifted restrictions entirely. When the semester is not in session — for example, during official university holidays or breaks — students are allowed to work unlimited hours. However, it’s important to remember that the primary purpose of a student visa is study, not work, so maintaining satisfactory academic progress is crucial.
The minimum wage in Australia is set by the Fair Work Commission and is reviewed annually. As of mid-2025, the national minimum wage is AUD $23.23 per hour, but this can vary depending on the type of work, the industry, and whether the employee is classified as a casual, part-time, or full-time worker. Casual workers, which include most student jobs like hospitality or retail, usually receive a casual loading on top of the base pay — often an extra 25% — because they don’t get the same benefits as permanent employees, such as paid sick leave or annual leave.
Common part-time jobs for international students include positions in cafes, restaurants, retail shops, supermarkets, cleaning services, childcare, hospitality, and delivery services. Some students also find on-campus jobs, such as working at the university library, tutoring, research assistant roles, or administrative support. These jobs are often convenient because they are located close to classes and are familiar with student schedules. Regardless of where a student works, they are entitled to the same legal protections as any Australian worker.
International students should be aware of their work rights under Australian law. The Fair Work Ombudsman is the government body responsible for enforcing workplace rights, including pay, working conditions, and unfair treatment. Employers must provide students with a written agreement outlining their pay rate, working hours, duties, and conditions. Students should keep copies of payslips, contracts, and records of the hours they work. It is illegal for an employer to pay less than the minimum wage, even if the worker is an international student. Unfortunately, some students, particularly in hospitality and cleaning, experience underpayment or cash-in-hand arrangements where they are paid below the legal rate. If this happens, students should seek advice from the Fair Work Ombudsman or student support services at their institution.
Tax obligations are another key area for students who work part-time. Any income earned in Australia is taxable, and students must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) before they start working. Employers will withhold tax from each paycheck, and at the end of the financial year, students may need to lodge a tax return to calculate whether they owe additional tax or are eligible for a refund. Many students also qualify for the tax-free threshold, meaning they don’t pay tax on the first AUD $18,200 they earn in a year.
Workplace safety is another critical aspect. All employers in Australia are legally required to provide a safe working environment, proper training, and necessary protective equipment. Students should never feel pressured to accept unsafe or exploitative working conditions. If a student feels unsafe or is being treated unfairly, they can seek help confidentially through the Fair Work Ombudsman, unions, or their university’s international student support services. It’s important for students to know that asking questions or asserting their workplace rights will not affect their visa.
Balancing part-time work with studies can be challenging. Many students are tempted to take on as many hours as possible to cover rising living costs, but working too much can impact academic performance and risk violating visa conditions. Australian universities expect full-time international students to maintain satisfactory course progress, and failure to do so can lead to visa issues. Time management, prioritizing important assignments, and making realistic work schedules are essential to maintaining a healthy balance.
In recent years, there have also been increasing opportunities for students to work in their field of study through internships, placements, or volunteer roles. While some of these roles are unpaid, they can provide valuable experience, networking opportunities, and even lead to future job offers. International students interested in these opportunities should check whether the hours count toward their 48-hour-per-fortnight limit and make sure the roles comply with Fair Work guidelines.
It’s worth noting that Australia has strict laws regarding working without the proper visa or breaching work hour limits. Immigration authorities regularly monitor visa holders, and breaching work conditions can lead to visa cancellation or refusal of future applications. Students should always check their visa grant letter for the exact conditions that apply and consult with their university or an authorized migration agent if they have questions.
Beyond the rules, part-time work can be an enriching part of the Australian student experience. It offers a chance to meet new people, improve communication skills, learn about Australian workplace culture, and gain independence. Many students report that their part-time jobs helped them feel more connected to local communities and provided valuable soft skills that benefited their future careers.
In conclusion, international students in Australia have the right to work part-time under clear conditions that protect them from exploitation and ensure fair treatment. Understanding the minimum wage, tax obligations, workplace safety, and balancing work with academic commitments is essential for making the most of this opportunity. By staying informed and seeking help when needed, students can enjoy a rewarding work experience that enhances their time studying in Australia and prepares them for success beyond graduation