Working in Australia While Studying: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re thinking of studying in Australia as an international student, you likely have many questions. Are you allowed to work while you study? If so, what kind of employment are you allowed to hold? Are there limitations on the number of hours you can work?
If this sounds familiar, you’ve come to the right place. Here we answer some of your most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about working in Australia while you study.
Can international students work in Australia while studying?
Yes! As an international student in Australia, you can work part-time while studying. You’ll have the opportunity to work in a wide range of roles and industries, from hospitality to administration to retail.
What are the conditions for working in Australia as a student?
As of 1 July 2023, international students are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester. During study breaks, you are allowed to work full-time.
Students working in the aged care sector are exempt from the working hour cap until 31 December 2023. This means they are allowed to continue working full-time until this date, even during study periods.
As an international student working in Australia, you will have the same workplace protections as anyone else.
What types of jobs can you do in Australia while studying?
The retail and hospitality sectors are great for students, as the working hours are generally quite flexible. If you choose, you’ll likely have the opportunity to take on more shifts during study breaks.
The aged care sector in Australia is another great industry for students, particularly since there is no limit on working hours. Due to Australia’s ageing population, there is also a high demand for workers in this sector.
How can working while studying in Australia benefit you?
Working while studying in Australia can benefit you in many ways. Being able to support yourself financially while studying is super important and can make a real difference to your wellbeing while living away from home.
Working while studying is also a great opportunity to gain experience in your chosen field and expand your career options. Building up your experience can help if you are interested in applying for a Temporary Graduate visa or a skilled visa after you graduate.
How to manage your time between work and studies in Australia?
As an international student, it is important to prioritise your studies. Getting a job that has flexible hours will help you ensure you’re not spending all your time at work. That means you’ll have more time to focus on your studies and achieve your academic goals.
If possible, request for your shifts to be scheduled on the same days each week, so you can build a consistent routine around your courses. If you need more financial support, use your study breaks to take on some extra work hours.
Working in Australia while you study is a fantastic opportunity to gain work experience and support yourself while you study.
Author: Amy Roberts
