How to find casual retail jobs in Australia as an international student is one of those things that seems simple until you actually try it. I spent weeks applying online, walking into stores, and asking friends, with little success. The information online was generic and didn’t tell me what actually works. I needed real advice from someone who’d actually found retail jobs.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve worked retail jobs and helped friends find them. Some found jobs quickly. Others took longer. The difference was knowing where to look and how to apply.
So here’s everything I know about finding casual retail jobs in Australia as an international student, based on what actually works.
Where to Look: The Best Places
This is the first step, and here’s where to actually look.
Online job boards are the most common place. Seek, Indeed, Jora, and Gumtree all list retail jobs. But competition is high, so apply quickly.
Company websites are often better. Many retailers post jobs on their own websites before posting elsewhere. Check websites of stores you want to work for.
Walking into stores can work. Some stores prefer in person applications. Take your resume and ask if they’re hiring. Even if they’re not hiring now, they might keep your resume.
University job boards can have retail jobs. Check your university’s career website. Some retailers post specifically for students.
But here’s what I’ve learned: don’t limit yourself to one method. Use multiple approaches. Apply online, walk into stores, and check university boards. More applications mean more chances.
How to Apply: What Actually Works
This is important, because how you apply matters.
Online applications usually require: a resume, sometimes a cover letter, and answers to questions about availability and experience.
In person applications require: a resume, a brief introduction, and asking about available positions.
But here’s what I’ve learned: tailor your application. Don’t use the same resume for every job. Highlight relevant experience, even if it’s not retail experience. Show that you’re reliable and available.
I’ve written about how to write a retail resume for Australian jobs if you want more detail.
What Retailers Look For
This is important, because understanding what they want helps you stand out.
Retailers want: reliable people who show up on time, people who can work weekends and evenings, friendly people who can interact with customers, and people who can handle busy periods.
They don’t always require: retail experience, perfect English, or specific qualifications.
But here’s what I’ve learned: reliability matters more than experience. If you can show you’re reliable and available, you have a good chance. Don’t worry if you don’t have retail experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what I’ve seen go wrong, so you can avoid these mistakes:
Applying to too few places. Many students apply to five or ten jobs and give up. Apply to many more. The more applications, the better your chances.
Not following up. If you don’t hear back, follow up politely. A follow up email or call can make a difference.
Being too picky. Don’t only apply to your favourite stores. Apply to any retail job you can find. You can always move to better jobs later.
Not being available. If you can only work limited hours, you’re less attractive to employers. Be flexible with your availability if possible.
But here’s what I’ve learned: these mistakes are avoidable. Apply to many places, follow up, be flexible, and don’t be too picky. It takes time, but you’ll find something.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to find a retail job?
It varies. Some students find jobs within a week. Others take months. It depends on timing, location, and how many applications you make. Don’t give up if it takes time.
Do I need retail experience?
Not necessarily. Many retailers hire people without retail experience. They care more about reliability and availability. But experience helps, so highlight any customer service experience you have.
Should I apply online or in person?
Both. Don’t limit yourself to one method. Apply online and walk into stores. Some stores prefer one method, but you don’t know which until you try.
What if I don’t hear back?
Follow up politely. Wait a week or two, then send a follow up email or call. But don’t be pushy. One follow up is enough.
Can I work in retail with limited English?
It depends on the store and role. Some stores need good English for customer service. Others need less English for stocking or cleaning. Apply and see what happens.
Should I take the first job I’m offered?
Not necessarily, but consider it. If the job is reasonable and you need money, take it. You can always look for better jobs while working. But don’t take terrible jobs if you can afford to wait.
I’ve written about supermarket job application tips for international students if you want more detail.
Final Thoughts
Finding casual retail jobs in Australia as an international student takes time and persistence. Apply to many places, use multiple methods, and don’t give up. Retail jobs are usually available, but competition is high. The key is applying widely and being persistent.
Don’t expect immediate success. Most students apply to many jobs before finding one. Keep applying, follow up, and be flexible. You’ll find something eventually.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Persistence matters. Don’t give up after a few rejections. Keep applying, and you’ll find something. Most students find jobs eventually, but it takes time.
If you’re still looking for work, check out my guides on best student jobs in Australia and how to get a job at Coles, Woolworths, or Aldi. And when you’re applying, apply widely, follow up, and be persistent. It takes time, but you’ll find something.
