What work rights do international students have?
If you’ve chosen to study in Australia or are thinking about it, that’s amazing! We’re sure you’ll have a great time.
If you’re planning to work as well as study in Australia — and your visa covers it — you are entitled to good working conditions and at least the minimum wage. So, there are some things to know about your rights and where you can go if something doesn’t feel quite right at work.
If you’re unsure if you can work in Australia, check out the Department of Home Affairs and select your visa category. For students, read this section.
In Australia, you can stay up to five years on a student visa and work up to 48 hours a fortnight while your study, course, or program is running. Once you’ve applied for your visa, check out the work restrictions for student visa holders, as they can change. Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) is a handy website where you can check up-to-date details of your visa
Unfortunately, some employers can take advantage of international students. This can be made worse by language barriers, not knowing where to receive help or a lack of awareness of the laws. Some examples of how this may happen in the workplace (as listed here):
- Threats to cancel your visa, or pressure to work beyond the restrictions of your visa.
- Wage underpayments. This pay calculator can help figure out what your wage should be. Find your award here.
- Not receiving workplace entitlements like paid leave or superannuation
- Receiving wages in cash from an employer to avoid paying tax
If you know or think any of these are happening by your employer it is worth talking to them to resolve the issue. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your employer, check out the Fair Work Ombudsman where you can contact a support worker. You can also ask for a translator or interpreter. The Migrant Workers Centre is another helpful service if you are having issues at work.
Each state and territory within Australia also has a website for international students studying there. Check them out for more information on your work rights as an international student, and other handy tips about studying there.
