One of the biggest advantages of the Australia student visa is the ability to work while studying. But the rules have changed recently, and violating them can result in visa cancellation. Here's everything you need to know.
Current Work Hour Limits (2026)
- During term: Maximum 48 hours per fortnight (2-week period)
- During scheduled breaks: Unlimited hours
- Post-study work (485 visa): Full-time work permitted
Important: The 48-hour limit is per fortnight, not per week. You can't work 40 hours one week and 0 the next and call it even. It's a strict 48 hours per 14-day period.
What Counts as "Work"?
It's not just paid employment:
- Paid employment — Any paid work counts toward the limit
- Volunteer work — Usually doesn't count, but only if truly voluntary (no payment, no obligation)
- Internships — If they're a mandatory course requirement, they don't count. If they're optional, they do.
- Freelancing/Gig work — Counts. Uber driving, food delivery, freelance design — all count toward 48 hours.
- Unpaid trial shifts — If you're doing actual work, it counts as work even if unpaid.
Minimum Wage and Work Rights
As a student visa holder, you have the same work rights as Australian residents:
- Minimum wage: AUD $23.23/hour (2024 rate, updated annually)
- Casual loading: +25% for casual employees
- Tax file number (TFN): Required before starting work
- Superannuation: Employers must contribute 11.5% of your earnings to super if you earn over $450/month
Tax Obligations
International students pay tax on Australian income. You must:
- Apply for a TFN (Tax File Number) through the ATO website
- Provide your TFN to every employer
- Lodge a tax return by October 31 each year
- Keep records of all income and payslips
Visa Condition 8105
Your student visa has condition 8105 attached, which states you cannot work more than 48 hours per fortnight during term. Violating this condition can result in:
- Visa cancellation
- 3-year ban on re-entry
- Difficulty obtaining future visas
Be careful: It's your responsibility to track your hours, not your employer's.
Common Student Jobs and Typical Pay
- Hospitality (cafe/restaurant): AUD $23–$30/hour + tips
- Retail: AUD $23–$28/hour
- Delivery driver: AUD $25–$35/hour
- Tutoring: AUD $30–$50/hour
- Admin/office work: AUD $25–$35/hour
Post-Study Work Rights (Subclass 485)
After completing your degree, you may be eligible for a Graduate visa (485) that allows full-time work for 2–4 years depending on your qualification level. This has become one of the most valuable aspects of studying in Australia.