Australia has long been a popular destination for international students, offering world-class education, a multicultural environment, and beautiful living conditions. But one of the most frequently asked questions is: Can you work while studying in Australia? The short answer is yes—but there are important rules, limitations, and opportunities that every student should understand.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about working while studying in Australia, from visa regulations to job options and how to balance your work and study life. We’ll also explain how IC Australia can help you make the most of your study and work experience.

Student Visa Work Rights in Australia

If you hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work in Australia under specific conditions. As of 2023, the Australian Government allows international students to:

  • Work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two-week period) during study terms
  • Work unlimited hours during official semester breaks

It’s essential to check with your institution and keep up to date with any policy changes via the Department of Home Affairs website.

Popular Part-Time Jobs for International Students

Many international students successfully find part-time jobs that allow them to gain local experience and earn extra income. Some common job options include:

  • Retail assistants in shops and supermarkets
  • Hospitality roles in cafes, restaurants, and hotels
  • Tutors for younger students or peers
  • Delivery drivers (requires appropriate licensing)
  • Administrative assistants or customer service staff
  • Freelance gigs such as graphic design, writing, or social media management

Websites like Seek, Indeed Australia, and Gumtree Jobs are great starting points for finding part-time work.

Minimum Wage and Employee Rights

Australia has one of the highest minimum wages in the world. As of 2024, the national minimum wage is $23.23 per hour (subject to annual review). International students are entitled to the same workplace protections as any other employee, including:

  • Fair pay and conditions
  • Safe work environments
  • Superannuation contributions (retirement savings)
  • Payslips and contracts

For detailed info, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Balancing Study and Work

While earning money is important, your primary purpose in Australia is to study. Balancing a part-time job with academic responsibilities requires careful planning.

Tips to manage both:

  • Prioritise your timetable and assignment deadlines
  • Look for flexible jobs with evening or weekend shifts
  • Avoid taking on more hours than permitted under your visa
  • Use campus support services if you’re struggling with workload or stress

A well-managed schedule can even help improve time management and communication skills—both valuable for future employment.

Can You Work Full-Time After Graduation?

Yes! After completing your studies, you may be eligible to stay and work in Australia under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). This visa allows you to:

  • Work full-time for up to 2–4 years, depending on your qualification and location of study
  • Gain valuable professional experience in your field
  • Use this experience as a step toward permanent residency in Australia

Learn more about post-study options on IC Australia’s website.

How IC Australia Can Help You

At IC Australia, we assist international students in every stage of their migration journey. Our expert team provides:

  • Visa guidance and application support
  • Job-readiness consultations
  • Advice on transitioning to graduate visas
  • Information on pathways to PR

Our goal is to empower you to thrive both academically and professionally in Australia.

Book a free consultation at www.icaustralia.com to start planning your future.

Final Thoughts

So, can you work while studying in Australia? Absolutely—but it’s vital to understand the visa rules, find the right job, and keep a healthy balance between work and studies. With Australia’s strong labour laws, minimum wage protections, and diverse job market, students can gain valuable experience that benefits them during and after their education.

Whether you’re already in Australia or planning your move, IC Australia is here to guide you through every step of the process.