Your Work Rights in Australia

As an international student in Australia on a valid student visa (subclass 500), you generally have permission to work part-time while you study. This can help you gain valuable work experience, improve your English language skills, and support your living costs.

It's important to understand that your work rights are directly linked to your visa conditions. You can only begin working once your course has officially commenced.

The primary work condition for most student visa holders is a limit on the number of hours you can work:

• During Course Session: You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (a two-week period). A fortnight begins on a Monday and ends on the second Sunday.
• During Scheduled Course Breaks: You can work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (e.g., semester holidays).
• Exceptions: If you are undertaking a Master's by Research or Doctoral degree, you generally have no work hour limits .

These limits are strict, and breaching them can lead to serious consequences, including visa cancellation.

Your student visa comes with specific conditions that you must meet, which are critical for maintaining your legal status in Australia:

• Maintain Enrolment: You must remain enrolled in a registered course and maintain satisfactory course attendance and academic progress.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): You must maintain adequate OSHC for the entire duration of your stay.
• Tax File Number (TFN): If you plan to work, you will need a TFN. Apply via the ATO website.

Always review your visa grant letter for a full list of your visa conditions. Non-compliance can lead to visa cancellation and impact your future travel to Australia.

All workers in Australia, including international students, are protected by Australian workplace laws. This means you have rights regardless of your nationality or visa status:

• Minimum Wage: You are entitled to receive at least the national minimum wage.
• Safe Workplace: You have the right to a safe and healthy working environment.
• Pay Slips: Your employer must provide you with regular pay slips.
• Fair Treatment: You should not face discrimination, harassment, or unfair dismissal.
• Superannuation: Depending on your age and earnings, your employer may be required to pay superannuation contributions for you.

If you encounter any issues at your workplace, such as underpayment, unsafe conditions, or unfair treatment, there are organizations that can help:

• Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO): Free advice and assistance for all workers. Visit fairwork.gov.au.
• Unions: Joining a union relevant to your industry can provide support and advocacy.
• Community Legal Centres: Free legal advice; some specialize in employment law.
• Your Education Provider: International student support services can advise or refer you.

Do not hesitate to seek help if you are experiencing workplace issues. You have rights, and support is available.