Working in Australia: Your rights explained

In Australia, international students are permitted to work while pursuing their studies, which can assist with living expenses and provide valuable work experience and networking opportunities for future employment. While international students enjoy the same rights as Australian workers, there are restrictions on the number of hours they can work to ensure they have sufficient time to focus on their studies.

Work Eligibility: Yes, international students are allowed to work in Australia, and there are numerous job opportunities available, particularly in sectors like cafes, restaurants, and retail, offering flexible schedules that can accommodate class timetables.

Working Hour Restrictions: During study terms and semesters, international students are typically allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight. It's essential to regularly review visa conditions to ensure compliance with permissible working hours.

Types of Employment: Employment arrangements in Australia usually fall into three categories: full-time, part-time, and casual. Part-time and casual work are popular among international students due to their flexibility.

• Casual Work: Offers flexibility with varying hours each week, typically higher hourly pay but without paid leave entitlements.
• Part-time Work: Involves set hours and days each week, with access to paid leave benefits such as sick days and holidays.
• Full-time Work: Requires working a set number of hours per week, with entitlements to paid holiday and sick leave.

Getting Paid and Income Tax: International students are entitled to payment for their work in line with Australian minimum wage laws. They must obtain a Tax File Number to ensure compliance with income tax obligations and may be eligible for an income tax refund at the end of each financial year.

Superannuation: Even student visa holders are entitled to superannuation contributions from employers, which are deposited into their chosen superannuation fund. These savings can be accessed upon permanently departing Australia.

Worker Rights: International students have the same working rights as other Australian workers, including volunteering, internships, and work experience opportunities. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides resources to ensure workers understand their rights, and individuals are encouraged to seek assistance if needed, without fear of affecting their visa status.