Australia is a popular study destination for international students, and part-time work is an option for many to earn income during their studies. Some key points:
- Eligibility – International students on a student visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours when their course is not in session. This is an attractive option to gain work experience and supplement living costs.
- Availability – Part-time jobs are plentiful in service industries like retail, hospitality, and tourism. Major cities have more opportunities than regional areas. Competition can be high as many students seek part-time work.
- Application Process – Students require a tax file number to work legally. They can search online job boards, check noticeboards, and hand out resumes in person or network. A resume and cover letter is required.
- Pay Rates – The minimum wage in Australia is currently around A$20 per hour. This provides a decent income for students working limited hours. Pay may be higher for roles requiring certain skills or experience.
- Work Rights – Students should check their visa work rights. Working over the limit or in prohibited industries can jeopardize their visa status. Unpaid internships over 25 hours per week are not permitted.
- Language Skills – A good grasp of English is important for most customer service roles. Employers may be reluctant to hire without adequate language skills.
- Work-Study Balance – Working part-time has benefits but students should be careful not to overcommit as study is the main priority.
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Rules to follow in Australia for Work
- There are specific regulations that govern part-time employment for international students in Australia. Since July 2016, student visas fall under the Subclass 500 category. Under this visa, students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight (14-day period) while their course is in session. They can work unlimited hours when the course is not in session, during breaks and holidays. However, students cannot begin working until their course has officially commenced.
- Exceeding the 40-hour limit while the course is in session can lead to visa cancellation. To be safe, students should aim to work around 20 hours per week on average if they want ongoing part-time work. Even if students arrive in Australia before their course start date, they are not allowed to start working until classes have begun.
- The 40-hour limit does not apply if work is an assessed part of the curriculum, like compulsory internships in certain programs. Postgraduate research students can also work unlimited hours once their research or thesis work has started, even if they have preliminary courses. During those preliminary courses, the standard 40-hour fortnight limit applies.
- The key points are that international students must abide by the 40-hour biweekly limit while studying and cannot start working until their course has officially begun, as per the terms of their Subclass 500 visas. Following the regulations ensures maintaining visa status. The Graduate Stream Post Study Work Permit application is open to students who have finished their studies in Australia. However, participants in ELICOS will not be allowed to apply for an Australian post-study work permit. Students may only work 40 hours per week for the duration of the course they are engaged in if they are applying under the Post Graduate Research Sector or are doing any preparatory courses. Students will only be allowed to work as many hours as they like after the Research Course begins. It’s important to keep in mind that obtaining a Tax File Number (TFN) is necessary for both part-time employment and international students holding foreign passports. You may register for a TFN online through the official website.
- According to Australian government regulations, every student will have equal access to work while they are enrolled in classes. In addition to the rights to rest intervals and breaks, safe and healthy working conditions, and the ability to contest an unjust dismissal from any employment, they will also be entitled to minimum pay as set forth by the Fair Work Act of 2009.
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Employment Rights in Australia
International students can work more than 40 hours per week throughout the semester with an Australian student visa. During semester vacations, however, they are free to work as many hours as they like. They are entitled to certain benefits as an employee under the National Employment Standards, which include:
- Annual leave
- Long service leave
- Community service leave
- Public holidays
- Parental leave and related entitlements
- Compassionate leave and personal carer’s leave
- Provision of a Fair Work Information Statement
- Requests for flexible working arrangements
- Notice of termination and redundancy pay
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How to find part-time work in Australia?
Finding part-time jobs in a foreign country may seem like a difficult task but it isn’t. Here are some platforms that can help you with your job search while you pursue your education in Australia.
- Indeed Australia
- Adzuna
- CareerOne
- Gumtree
- Seek
There are on-campus and off-campus part-time jobs that international students in Australia can consider.
On-campus roles allow students to work within their university environment
- Examples are peer tutoring, where students help classmates understand course material and complete assignments.
- Tutors earn around $20 per hour.
- Teaching assistant jobs have students assist professors with planning lectures, grading, and other tasks.
- The pay is usually around $25 per hour.
- Research assistant roles support university research projects by collecting data, conducting experiments, and analyzing results. Research assistants make approximately $22 per hour.
- Library assistants help maintain university libraries by organizing books, assisting visitors, and performing administrative tasks. The minimum wage for these roles is $21 per hour.
Off-campus part-time jobs take place outside the university
- Customer service representative roles provide product/service information and resolve issues for companies. Pay starts at around $23 per hour.
- Store associates complete administrative, sales, and customer service tasks for retail businesses. Their minimum wage is $20 per hour.
- Translators convert content from one language into another, which allows international students to utilize their language skills. Translators earn a minimum of $25 per hour.
- Waiting tables at restaurants is another common student job paying around $19 per hour plus tips.
In summary, international students have diverse part-time job options in Australia, both on and off campus. These provide a means to earn income and gain valuable skills and experience while studying. Pay rates range from $19-$25 per hour based on the role.
Highest-Paying Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students
| Part-Time Jobs | Average Pay Per Hour |
| Aged care worker | AUD 35 (INR 1,961) |
| Delivery driver | AUD 20.33 (INR 1,136) |
| Personal tutor | AUD 20.33 (INR 1,136) |
| Sales representative | AUD 30 (INR 1,681) |
| Customer Service | AUD 26 (INR 1,457) |
| Secretary | AUD 25 (INR 1,401) |
| Oral Hygienist | AUD 32 (INR 1,793) |
| Waiter | AUD 24 with tip (INR 1,345) |
| Personal trainer | AUD 25 (INR 1,401) |
| Admin Executive | AUD 30 (INR 1,681) |
Average Salary of Part-Time Jobs in Australia
The below table shows the average salary of some lucrative part-time jobs in Australia
| Part-time jobs | Average hourly salary |
| Tutor | A$29.45 |
| Waiter | A$17.97 |
| Babysitter | A$19.97 |
| Personal trainer | A$30.62 |
| Customer Service Representative | A$ 51,969 |
Part-time Jobs Available in Major Australian cities
1. Sydney
List of top part-time jobs in Sydney for international students:
| Part-time jobs | Average pay per month | Cost of living in Sydney/monthly | Tentative savings |
| Cashier | AUD 2,000 (INR 1,11,976) | AUD 1,754 (INR 98,173) | AUD 246 (INR 13,774) |
| Sales Assistant | AUD 2,320 (INR 1,29,962) | AUD 1,754 (INR 98,173) | AUD 566 (INR 31,699) |
| Retail Assistant | AUD 2,060 (INR 1,15,404) | AUD 1,754 (INR 98,173) | AUD 306 (17,149) |
| Warehouse Operator | AUD 2,804 (INR 1,57,167) | AUD 1,754 (INR 98,173) | AUD 1,050 (INR 58,852) |
| Administration and Support | AUD 2,846 (1,59,481) | AUD 1,754 (INR 98,173) | AUD 1,092 (INR 61,200) |
2. Perth
List of top part-time jobs in Perth for international students:
| Part-time jobs | Average pay per month | Cost of living in Perth/monthly | Tentative savings |
| Customer Service Representative | AUD 3,000 (INR 1,67,882) | AUD 1,936 (INR 1,08,550) | AUD 1,064 (59,527) |
| Marketing Consultant | AUD 2,800 (INR 1,56,543) | AUD 1,936 (INR 1,08,550) | AUD 864 (INR 48,309) |
| Tutor | AUD 2,000 (INR 1,11,976) | AUD 1,936 (INR 1,08,550) | AUD 56 (INR 3,578) |
| Pharmacy Assistant | AUD 2,000 (INR 1,11,976) | AUD 1,936 (INR 1,08,550) | AUD 56(INR 3,578) |
| Accounts Assistant | AUD 2,083 (INR 1,16,551) | AUD 1,936 (INR 1,08,550) | AUD 147(INR 8,226) |
3. Melbourne
List of top part-time jobs in Melbourne for international students:
| Part-time jobs | Average pay per month | Cost of living in Melbourne/monthly | Tentative savings |
| International Student Support Officer | AUD 5,000 (INR 2,79,950) | AUD 1,500 (INR 83,986) | AUD 3,500 (1,95,938) |
| Customer Service Attendant | AUD 4000 (INR 2,23,929) | AUD 1,500 (INR 83,986) | AUD 2,500 (1,39, 951) |
| Administration Support Officer | AUD 2,603 (INR 1,45,717) | AUD 1,500 (INR 83,986) | AUD 1,103 (INR 61, 751) |
| Receptionist | AUD 2,419 (INR 1.35,432) | AUD 1,500 (INR 83,986) | AUD 919 (INR 51,452) |
| Student Services Officer | AUD 1,799 (INR 1,00723) | AUD 1,500 (INR 83,986) | AUD 299 (INR 16,740) |
4. Canberra
List of top part-time jobs for international students in Australia’s capital Canberra:
| Part-time jobs | Average pay per month | Cost of living in Canberra/monthly | Tentative savings |
| Pharmacy Assistant | AUD 1,920 (INR 1,07,511) | AUD 1,740 (INR 97,400) | AUD 180 (INR 10,077) |
| OSHC Assistant Coordinators | AUD 2,080 (INR 1,16,507) | AUD 1,740 (INR 97,400) | AUD 340 (INR 19,039) |
| Administration Officer | AUD 2,028 (INR 1,13,559) | AUD 1,740 (INR 97,400) | AUD 288 (INR 16,125) |
| Academic Tutors | AUD 2,400 (INR 1,34,373) | AUD 1,740 (INR 97,400) | AUD 660 (36.956) |
| Sales Assistant | AUD 2,160 (INR 1,20,946) | AUD 1,740 (INR 97,400) | AUD 420 (INR 23,517) |
Things to Remember When Searching Part Time Jobs in Australia
- Make sure your visa allows you to work – Most student visas allow up to 40 hours per fortnight when your course is in session. Verify any work-hour restrictions.
- Start your search early – Begin looking for jobs well ahead of when you need to start working. The job search can take time, so give yourself a head start.
- Look for jobs on campus first – On-campus roles like tutoring, research assistant, etc. offer convenience and an engaging work environment.
- Expand your search off campus – If you can’t find an on-campus position, expand your search to retail shops, cafes, and restaurants in the local area.
- Leverage your networks – Talk to classmates, professors, and student groups about potential leads. Personal referrals can help greatly.
- Spruce up your resume – Highlight skills and experience relevant to the job. Get feedback from campus career centers.
- Prepare for interviews – Read up on the job description and company. Practice commonly asked questions. Highlight your strengths.
- Check eligibility criteria – Make sure you meet any age, background check, or language requirements provided by the employer.
- Discuss pay and hours – When offered a job, ask about the starting pay rate and schedule flexibility for students.
- Get a Tax File Number – This is required for employment in Australia. Apply early through the Australian Tax Office.
- Know your rights – Research minimum wage, payroll conditions, and other employee rights and protections in Australia.
Laws applicable to international students working part-time in Australia
Studying and working in Australia for international students has been rewarding because of the several laws that are in place to protect their rights. Here are some of the rights reserved by the Australian government for part-timers, irrespective of nationality:
- A minimum wage of AUD 20.33/hour or AUD 772.60/week as dictated by the Fair Work Act 2009.
- Proper rests and breaks.
- Right to oppose unfair dismissal.
- A secure and healthy workplace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, part-time employment is a significant part of the Australian workforce, providing income and flexibility for various groups of workers. The key points are:
- Part-time roles are widely available across many industries like retail, hospitality, healthcare, etc. This provides opportunities for students, parents, seniors, and others seeking work-life balance.
- Minimum pay rates and conditions are regulated for part-time employees to ensure fair treatment. However, underemployment is an issue with some wanting more work hours.
- For international students, part-time work allows them to earn income to assist with living costs and gain valuable skills, if they meet student visa work limits. Competition for jobs can be high.
- Job seekers need to be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to pay, tax, leave, visa conditions, etc. Appropriate language skills are also important.
- Working part-time has advantages but also requires balancing with other commitments like study for students.
FAQs
How many hours can I work on a student visa?
You can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. During holidays you can work unlimited hours.
When can I start working?
You can only start working once your course has commenced, not before the start date.
What kinds of jobs are available?
Retail, hospitality, tutoring, office work, customer service, events, telemarketing and more.
What is the minimum wage?
The national minimum wage in Australia is currently AUD 20.33 per hour. Wages vary by job.
Where can I find job vacancies?
On university career sites, job search engines like Seek and Indeed, community noticeboards, and networking.
Do I need a Tax File Number (TFN)?
Yes, you need a TFN to work in Australia. Apply through the Australian Tax Office.
What documents do I need to apply?
Your resume, visa, passport, bank details, TFN, and English proficiency scores if applicable.
Will I get training for the job?
Many employers provide on-the-job training for new employees, especially students.
How do I stand out when applying?
Get experience through volunteering. Network. Highlight your strengths and skills in your resume and interview.
Should I mention my visa status?
Yes, be upfront about your visa status and work hour limitations as a student.
Gaurav Kandari is a seasoned study abroad consultant with over 5 years of experience, specializing in guiding students to the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. An avid traveler, he draws on his global adventures to enrich his consulting, providing invaluable insights to aspiring scholars.
