- Published on February 20, 2026
- Bishnu K.
International students on an Australian Student visa (Subclass 500) can work part-time to gain valuable experience and support their living costs. However, maintaining your visa compliance by prioritizing your studies is essential.
Work Hour Limits
During Course Sessions: You may work up to 48 hours per fortnight (every 14-day period starting on a Monday). You do not need to split these hours evenly between weeks (e.g., you could work 30 hours in week one and 18 hours in week two), provided the total does not exceed 48 hours in that fortnight.
During Breaks: You are permitted to work unlimited hours during official semester breaks, holidays, or public holidays.
Postgraduate Research Students: Students completing a Masters by Research or a PhD generally have unlimited work rights year-round once their course has officially commenced.
Common Job Opportunities
Popular roles for students include retail, hospitality, food service, delivery, tutoring, and on-campus jobs. These industries often offer flexible shifts that can be scheduled around classes.
Wages: As of July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is AUD $24.95 per hour.
Penalty Rates: You may earn higher rates for working evenings, weekends, or public holidays.
Rights: International students have the same workplace protections as local workers under Australian Fair Work laws.
Tax and Compliance
Tax File Number (TFN): All employees in Australia must pay tax. You will need to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) online through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) before or soon after starting work.
Staying Compliant: Breaching visa condition 8105 (work limitations) can lead to visa cancellation. Track your hours carefully using an app or timesheet. Employers can verify your work rights using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system
Ready to Study in Australia?
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