The Iglu Guide | Blog
What international students should know about working in Australia
Working in Australia as an international student is a great way to pocket some extra cash, make new friends and build important networks – as well as get to know your local community. But for any incoming international student, it’s important to understand the exact requirements of your Australian visa condition in order to avoid potential problems in the future. Once you’ve settled nicely into your new student accommodation, and you’ve started to find your your way around, here’s what every student employee needs to know before jumping into that first job.
Visa regulations
As of July 2023, international students on a subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight. However, these restrictions only apply during the academic term time. When it comes to uni holidays, all bets are off.
Before starting work
There are some essential tasks to complete before looking for employment or starting work.
- Make sure you have opened an Australian bank account so that your employer can pay you
- Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) – this enables your employer to pay you legally, and deduct the correct amount of tax
- If you are planning on working freelance or as a contractor, you will need to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)
- You may be asked to complete an unpaid trial by your prospective employer – this is not unusual, but should be made very clear in advance
Rights and responsibilities
All Australian employees are covered by the Fair Work system no matter where they come from, and this includes international students! There are several different layers of protection, all designed to ensure that employees are treated fairly at every stage.
- National Employment Standards (NES) – there are the 11 minimum standards that must be provided to all employees such as leave entitlements, termination requirements, maximum weekly hours etc. Check which ones are applicable to your particular situation
- The National minimum wage – your employer can pay you more than this should they wish to, but they cannot pay you less.
- A formal agreement is usually drawn up in writing and is always set out in favour of the employee. It may take the form of an employment contract, enterprise agreement or awards system.
All employees working in Australia benefit from strong worker protections, with the legal right to:
- Fair working conditions
- Rest breaks and holidays
- A safe workplace
- Regular payslips
- Superannuation contributions
- Protection from unfair dismissal
Who can help?
Sometimes, things don’t go to plan. It’s important to remember you are well protected in these circumstances, and that registering a complaint will not affect your visa status.
The Fair Work Ombudsman
This is the national workplace relations watchdog, and the first place to start for help and advice. They are available to provide free information and guidance about workplace laws. They can also assist you in taking action to enforce any compliance, as well as helping to resolve disputes such as salary underpayment or unfair treatment such as a scenario where your employer isn’t following workplace conditions, eg break allocation.
The Fair Work Commission
This is the workplace relations tribunal. They are responsible for setting the minimum wage, deciding workplace awards and approving enterprise agreements. They also deal with workplace disputes and issues such as unfair dismissal, bullying or sexual harassment and handle formal legal processes.
What to consider when looking for work
There are many benefits to working as a student. Not only does it help meet the cost of living and help towards student accommodation bills, it also improves your language skills, integrates you into the local community and expands your international network. The actual job itself is less important than the skills you will master. So, whether it’s catering, retail, tutoring or pet care, you’ll come away with plenty to add to your growing resumé. The bigger challenge is understanding how to manage your time and balance a job with your study. Choosing student accommodation located close by to employment opportunities will help maximise your time.
