The Iglu Guide | Blog
Everything you need to know before starting a student job
Many students choose to get a job while studying at university. It doesn’t only help manage hefty living expenses, it’s also a great way to gain valuable work experience. And whilst city living can be hard on the budget, it also brings plenty of employment opportunities that range from casual weekend work through to industry placements and internships. But before finding a job, all students should ensure that they are fully aware of the rules and regulations in place. These have been established to protect your working rights, and to make sure that students are able to balance all work and study commitments. Here’s what you need to know before you get started.
1. Organise your finances
Most students will have an Australian bank account already up and running, which means that your employer can pay your wages to you directly.
- It’s a good idea to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) before you start working to ensure your tax is calculated correctly. It will also prevent you from paying any unnecessary tax and waiting for a rebate.
- If you are set to earn over $450/month, your employer is legally required to pay 10.5% into your Super account on your behalf. This is a type of retirement fund that supplements your salary.
- If your employer needs you to work as a contractor, you may need to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Be sure to record your working hours so that you have a reference in case of any discrepancies.
2. Your working rights
Australia has many employee protection strategies in place that are designed to create a fair and respectful work environment, and it’s important that students understand their rights and entitlements before entering the workforce.
- Check that your visa entitles you to legally seek work. Currently, the student visa restrictions are set at a maximum of 48 hours across a fortnightly period, with unlimited working hours during the holiday periods. Exceeding these limitations is illegal and could result in your visa being cancelled.
- All jobs are governed by entitlements set out by National Employment Standards.
- These regulations ensure that you are paid no less than the minimum wage for any work you do, that you work in as safe and supportive environment and that you are legally entitled to the working hours and break times as detailed in your contract.
- The Fair Work Ombudsman is Australia’s workplace regulator, an independent agency that investigates workplace complaints and enforces compliance with national workplace laws. They are set up to offer information and advice on pay, working conditions and employer obligations.
- All employees have the right to a safe workplace, free from any type of discrimination. This includes bullying, sexual harassment and unfair dismissal. The Fair Work Ombudsman can help you identify potential workplace issues, file any complaints and provide support through the process.
3. How to find a job
Firstly, you will need to put together a resumé and cover letter that is curated for each different application, highlighting your relevant skills and experience. The next step is all about finding that job. There are a number of different strategies that students can use to find part time work.
- Online job portals are surprisingly popular and efficient. Gone are the days when you really needed to show your face to be taken seriously, as online registration is now considered standard practice. Jump on the web and get registered with the main players such as Indeed, Seek, Student Job Australia and CareerOne for starters. You can search by industry, location and availability. Sign up with as many as possible to increase your chances.
- Talk to your career advisory department at university for advice and support, and check the college job boards.
- Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Leverage your relationships both in and out of university and let others know you are looking for work. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and don’t be afraid to reach out to your contacts directly.
- Consider directly approaching local businesses. Print off a bunch of CVs and spend an hour handing them out on the local high street. Employers have great respect for students that show this type of initiative, and it reflects well on your character.
4. What’s the best type of student job?
The good news is that there is no perfect student job. Any type of employment has the benefit of offering transferable skills that can be applied to a wide variety of sectors – even volunteer work. The most popular student jobs tend to centralise in industries where there is a high staff turnover and therefore greater opportunity for work.
- Hospitality work – flexible hours, potential to increase earnings with tips and the possibility to acquire great customer service and communication skills
- Retail jobs – part time flexibility, extensive customer service experience and opportunity for longer term growth
- Tutoring – time efficient, higher pay and flexible scheduling
- Campus jobs – local, friendly and relevant to study
- Freelance work – utilise tech, digital or creative skills and take advantage of the gig economy
- Internships – unlikely to be paid positions, but a great way to enhance your CV and could lead to a permanent posting
- Volunteer work – demonstrates commitment, reliability, community thinking and a willingness to give back
5. Are you ready to adapt?
Entering the workplace is a lot different to hanging out with uni mates. Students that plan on getting a job should be prepared for the potential differences – particularly if this is the first time working. Firstly, there is most likely a hierarchical structure in place that needs to be handled respectfully and appropriately. Secondly, the communication style is likely to be more formal. This applies to both verbal and written conversations. In the same way that all students have a right to be protected in the workplace, all employees have that same right and expectation. Equally, the communication style may be a lot more informal than you are used to depending on the industry. Strong language skills are a crucial tool. Some students may consider taking an extra English language course if needed, while others may see the job itself as the perfect education provider. Culturally, there may be some obvious differences to anything you have experienced previously. Going into work with an open mind is key to success and an excellent way to get the most out of the workplace experience.
