Working on a student visa
International students have the same workplace rights as anyone else working in Australia. You may get a part-time or casual job to help pay your living expenses while you study in NSW.
Student visa holders in Australia are now eligible to work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and full-time during holidays. It is important to check your visa rules to ensure you are allowed to work before you start looking for a job.
Check Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO)External Link .
From 1 July 2023, student visa holders can work no more than 48 hours a fortnight while studying.
To learn more, visit Home AffairsExternal Link .
Your rights in the workplace
If you plan to get a job, it’s important to know what you are entitled to.
The Australian Government's Fair Work Ombudsman can help you prepare for your new job. They offer a range of free resources and tools, including a Guide to Starting a New JobDownload File and the ‘Starting a New Job’ online course at fairwork.gov.au/learningExternal Link .
The Ombudsman can also help if you are having workplace issues, without the risk of your visa being cancelled. This includes issues such as not getting the right pay or other entitlements, like leave or notice.
For more information visit the Fair Work Ombudsman.External Link
Safety at work
Your manager must give you appropriate training, supervision, information and equipment to ensure you can work safely.
Visit SafeWork NSWExternal Link for information about safety at work.
Mental health, just like physical health, is an important part of work health and safety. Recognising and managing risks in the workplace that may lead to physical or psychological injury is an essential part of creating a safe, healthy and productive workplace.
To find out how to create a mentally healthy workplace, please visit the Mental Health at WorkExternal Link website.
Types of employment in Australia
There are three types of employment in Australia: full-time work, part-time work and casual work.
The type of employment you choose will determine how many hours you can work, rates of pay, breaks and entitlements. All types of employment will also require tax and superannuation to be paid.
You can use the Fair Work Ombudsman's Pay and Conditions Tool External Link to learn more about:
- pay rates
- penalties and allowances
- leave entitlements.
If you have questions about your pay and conditions at work, visit fairwork.gov.auExternal Link for help.
Post-study work opportunities
Most international students return overseas after completing their studies in Australia. For those looking to build on their studies with work experience, the Australian Government provides post-study work rights for many international students.
Visit the Department of Home AffairsExternal Link for further information.
NSW Business & Skilled Migration Program
NSW nominates prospective migrants in state and territory nominated visa categories to support its economy and communities through the settlement of highly skilled migrants who are committed to living and working in NSW long term.
While international students are eligible to apply, the NSW program is highly competitive. International students may find it difficult to compete against more experienced professionals also seeking nomination.
Visit NSW Business & Skilled MigrationExternal Link for further information.
