Work rights for international students in Australia hours pay and conditions is one of those topics that confused me when I first started working. I didn’t know what my rights were or what I should expect. The information online was legal and hard to understand. I needed simple, practical information about what I could expect as an international student worker.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve worked various jobs, and I’ve learned what my rights are and what to expect. Some employers respected my rights. Others didn’t. The difference was knowing my rights and being able to assert them.
So here’s everything I know about work rights for international students in Australia, based on what actually applies.
Work Hours: What You’re Allowed
This is the most important limit, and here’s what it means.
During semester: you can work 48 hours per fortnight. That’s about 24 hours per week on average. This is the legal limit for student visa holders.
During official breaks: you can work unlimited hours. This includes semester breaks and summer holidays.
But here’s what I’ve learned: these are legal limits, but what you can actually handle is different. Don’t work maximum hours just because you can. Consider what you can handle without affecting your studies.
Minimum Wage: What You Should Be Paid
This is important, because you have a right to minimum wage.
Minimum wage varies by age and award. For adults 21 and over, minimum wage is usually around $23.23 per hour (as of 2024, check current rates).
Casual workers usually get: base rate plus 25% casual loading. This means casual workers usually earn more per hour than permanent workers.
Penalty rates apply for: weekends, evenings, and public holidays. These can add significantly to your pay.
But here’s what I’ve learned: minimum wage is your right. Don’t accept less. Check your award rate, and make sure you’re paid correctly.
I’ve written about minimum wage for casual and part time workers if you want more detail.
Your Rights: What You’re Entitled To
This is important, because knowing your rights protects you.
You have the right to: minimum wage, safe working conditions, breaks, and fair treatment.
You also have the right to: not be discriminated against, not be bullied or harassed, and to refuse unsafe work.
But here’s what I’ve learned: knowing your rights is important, but asserting them can be challenging. Don’t be afraid to speak up, but also be realistic about the situation.
Common Issues: What to Watch For
This is important, because knowing what to watch for helps you protect yourself.
Underpayment is common. Some employers pay less than minimum wage. Check your payslip, and know your award rate.
Unsafe conditions can happen. You have the right to safe working conditions. Don’t accept unsafe work.
Bullying and harassment can occur. You have the right to a safe, respectful workplace. Don’t accept bullying or harassment.
But here’s what I’ve learned: these issues are real, but not all employers do this. Many employers respect workers’ rights. But know your rights, and be prepared to assert them if needed.
I’ve written about what to do if your employer underpays you if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work more than 48 hours per fortnight?
Not during semester. This violates your visa conditions and can affect your visa. During breaks, you can work unlimited hours.
What if my employer asks me to work more?
Politely decline and explain your visa limits. Don’t work more than allowed, as this can affect your visa.
What’s the minimum wage?
It varies by age and award. For adults 21 and over, minimum wage is usually around $23.23 per hour. Check current rates and your specific award.
Do I get penalty rates?
Yes, if you work weekends, evenings, or public holidays. Penalty rates can add significantly to your pay. Check your award for specific rates.
What if I’m not paid correctly?
Speak to your employer first. If they don’t fix it, contact Fair Work. You have rights, and you should be paid correctly.
Can I refuse unsafe work?
Yes. You have the right to refuse unsafe work. Don’t accept unsafe conditions. Your safety matters.
I’ve written about Fair Work basics for international student workers if you want more detail.
Final Thoughts
Work rights for international students in Australia include limits on work hours, minimum wage rights, and safe working conditions. Know your rights, check your payslip, and don’t be afraid to speak up if something’s wrong. Your rights matter, and you should be treated fairly.
Don’t accept less than your rights. Know what you’re entitled to, and assert your rights if needed. Many employers respect workers’ rights, but some don’t. Be prepared to protect yourself.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Know your rights. Don’t accept less than minimum wage, unsafe conditions, or unfair treatment. Know what you’re entitled to, and assert your rights if needed. Your rights matter.
If you’re still learning about your work rights, check out my guides on minimum wage and Fair Work basics. And when you’re working, know your rights, check your payslip, and don’t be afraid to speak up if something’s wrong. Your rights matter.
