Temporary relaxation of working hours for student visa holders
Update 19/01/2022
The Australian Government has announced a temporary relaxation of student visa work limits to all sectors of the economy.
This takes effect immediately for all ongoing students as well as new student arrivals who wish to commence a job prior to course commencement. This means that international students can work before their course commences and work more than 40 hours a fortnight in any sector of the economy. This also includes secondary applicants.This is a temporary arrangement and will be reviewed by the Government in April 2022. Checkback regularly for updateson the Department of Home Affairs.
Information for students
You must continue to balance your study and work commitments even though there is flexibility in the number of hours you can work. Students must still:
maintain their course enrolment
ensure satisfactory course attendance, and
ensure satisfactory course progress.
Student visa holders who cancel their enrolment and stop attending classes, or fail to meet satisfactory course progress, may be in breach of their visa conditions.
Student Visa Work Australia
Australian student visa allows international students to work legally and study at the same time. For most of international students studying in Australia,it is essential to have an income covering some of their living experience in Australia. Some international students secure either a part-time or casual jobs to assist them to pay off their accommodation, transport, food, entertainment cots during their studies.
International students holding student visa obtain work permission. International students can:
Start working upon commencing the course
Work up to 40 hours fortnightly* while the course is in progress and there is no work limits during the breaks offered by educational providers (English College, Vocational College or University)
Work unlimited hours after the course finishes (it is usually 1-2 months based on the course length)
* The fortnight session starts from Monday and ends the second following Sunday (it is a period of 14 days).
Where Can You Find Work Opportunities
Australia offers a wide range of industries, most of the time international students find working part-time or casual hours:
Retail (supermarkets, department and fashion shops, markets)
Tourism (travel agencies, holiday resorts)
Administration jobs, Sales and Marketing
Finding a job in Australia, it really depends on your current level of English. Better English means much better job opportunities for you in the future. Therefore we encourage our students to invest their time and money to improve their English at the beginning of their student visa. It is not only that you will feel more confident around English speaking people but you will find easier new friendships and maybe you will secure much professional work in your field.
Some international students find rewarding to work as a volunteer. It is a great way to meet new friends and get some hands on work experience and give back to the community. To find out more, please check out http://www.govolunteer.com.au/
Some international students seek work opportunities via paid or unpaid internships. It is a great way to get exposure to the professional, financial and creative industries.
If you are currently living in Sydney, Labour Revolution (below) are looking for casual or full time employees. Visit the Labour Revolution website for further information.
Student Visa Work Rights
You must obtain a Tax File Number to be able to work in Australia. A tax file number (TFN) is your unique reference number to Australian tax system. Study Online Australia team will assist with a request of Tax File Number at no additional cost.
Every international student working in Australia has the same basic rights at work as any other Australian. These working rights are:
We encourage our students to have an up-to-date resume before coming to Australia. It will save you so much time and you will be able start looking for jobs as soon as you arrive to Australia. It is recommended to have work references & work recommendation and academic documents with you as well.
Remember to update your Linkedin profile, have a professional photo taken and ask for recommendations and skills & endorsement from your previous employers / colleagues. First impression is just once!!!
RSA Online ( Responsible Service of Alcohol)
Planning to secure a job in thousands of pubs, clubs, sporting areas, bars and restaurants within Australia. Get your RSA online today!