Study and Work in Australia - Essential Guide for International Students

Australia is one of the top famous study abroad destinations for international students from across the world due to the country's top-tier education and comfortable lifestyle which is recognized as one of the best in the world. However, the cost of education and living can make your study experience a lot more expensive even though education might be cheaper in comparison to the USA. Therefore, you may want to study and work in Australia if you want to experience the huge benefits of studying abroad, but don’t have the funds or a scholarship to cover all your costs, you might consider searching for a part-time job.

 Study and Work in Australia

Although the Australian government understands that cost of studies is a major concern for international students and therefore, offers several scholarships and grants to support international students in their studies. But even with the availability of these scholarships and financial aid, there is still a need for international students to explore study and work opportunities during their study program.

Studying abroad is a large investment. Working in Australia while Studying is a smart decision because as well as helping pay for your academic and living expenses, part-time employment lets you dive deeper into the local culture, build your professional skills, improve your language fluency, and make new friends.

However, many countries allow you to earn while you learn, but the rules differ from nation to nation. Therefore, before you can study and work in Australia, you need to be able to think about whether you can combine work with study at the same time.  In this article, we will provide a breakdown of the current employment rules for international students and other essential things you need to know to study and work in Australia.

Employment Rules/ Work Conditions for International Students

Here’s a breakdown of the current employment rules for international students who wish to study and work in Australia at the same time. Moreover, note that laws are updated frequently, so it is best to double-check the regulations before you travel.

The Australian immigration system allows student visa holders the chance to work without limitation during university vacations, or 40 hours per fortnight in term-time. However, this opportunity makes it much more affordable for students to attend school, funding some of their education through work.

These restrictions are set to ensure international students who study and work, remain focused on their studies while earning some money on the side. Moreover, if your part-time work is a part of your university course, this rule won’t apply to you, allowing you to work more hours than the set limit.

Furthermore, note that as an international student studying in Australia, you can only start working after your course program has commenced. These conditions also apply to family dependents working in Australia with your student visa.

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Part-time Employment

Most Australian Student Visas give international students permission to work up to 20 hours per week during school terms. However, before seeking work, international students should confirm that their study visa permits them to do so.  Visa information is held by the Australian Department of Immigration (DIAC) and can be accessed at any time using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.

Studying in one of the world’s most popular student cities means you’ll have various part-time employment prospects at your fingertips. Although, it’s possible to earn a decent wage in smaller towns too. Students with existing qualifications or work experience may be able to find part-time work in the field of their choice. Many Australian industries offer part-time work, such as retail, hospitality, tourism, agriculture, sales, administration, and more. These industries generally offer flexible hours for students.

Moreover, paid or unpaid internships are also a viable option for students wishing to gain work experience in their chosen field while they study. Students may also choose to volunteer for charities and non-government organizations. University campuses themselves are often full of student-job opportunities. From bar staff and security personnel to student ambassadors and facilities assistants. You’ll pocket some extra cash while improving the experience of your fellow students.

Furthermore, off-campus pubs, bars, restaurants, and takeaways looking to keep up with local student demand regularly have job vacancies. These roles often involve evening work, so they’re easy to fit around your daytime studies.

Working Rights as an International Student in Australia

Everyone who works in Australia, including international students or people on working holiday visas, has basic employment rights. However, as an international student working in Australia, you have the same rights and protections as any Australian in the workplace.

Australia’s workplace laws and regulations are designed to protect the rights of all workers, including international students working part-time on a student visa. However, these rights include entitlement to a minimum wage, the right to challenge unfair dismissal, breaks or rest periods, and a healthy and safe work environment.

Moreover, as an international student working in Australia. You will need to get a Tax File Number (TFN) to work in the country. Students who want to work during their studies in Australia should first visit the Australian Taxation Office to get their TFN. They will need to provide their name, current address, and date of birth. They may also need to supply their date of arrival in Australia, passport, and proof of enrollment.

You also have the right to receive your payslip within one working day of getting paid. This serves as a record of how many hours you’ve worked and how much you get paid.

Benefits of Working While Studying in Canada

Many international students choose to study in Australia. This is because of its friendly, laid-back nature, excellent education system, and high standard of living. Here are several other advantages one could get to study and work in Australia:

Good working hours:

An international student who has a Canadian student visa and wants to study and work in Australia can work up to 40 hours per fortnight or every two weeks in term-time. This makes it easy for them to strike a balance between their work and school. This is one of the important things since it makes it much more affordable for students to attend school. Most importantly, funding some of their education through work.

Maximum workplace safety:

International students working in Australia enjoy the same rights and protections as any Australian in the workplace. However, in Australia, there are rules and regulations to secure the rights of workers.

Minimum wage:

Australia has a minimum wage. You must receive at least this amount – it’s the law! You will get at least a minimum rate of pay per hour no matter what job you do.

Strong support:

This is also one of the best benefits of working while studying in Australia as an international student. You will find support every step of your journey as a student worker. Help is always available from the government and private organizations as well as your education provider.

Top tips for studying and working in Australia as an international student

Furthermore, here are top tips for working abroad as an international student:

• Prioritize your studies: If you want to graduate with a top-class degree, don’t let a part-time job interfere with your studies.
• Make sure you’re working legally: Working without a valid visa or permit could land you in serious trouble. Drop by your university’s career service if you have any questions about your employment rights.
• Don’t spend all of your free time working: There’s more to university than just studying and working. Put some time aside to explore your new surroundings and have fun with friends.
• Consider a job related to your degree: Putting what you’ve learned into practice will help boost your employability.
• Find a job you enjoy: Don’t accept a job that makes you miserable and ruins your student experience. Keep handing out CVs and taking trial shifts until you find something that works for you.

Final Thought 

In addition, a thorough plan is needed to establish a solid foundation for your part-time career, you will need to understand the Visa Rules for International Students, Work Conditions & Permissions, Average Wage & Salary, and many more. You will also need to understand your career pathway after graduation. Moreover, if you have an interest in staying in Australia to work after you graduate. You'll need to get a new working visa before your student visa expires.