International Student Work Rights in Australia: Complete Guide to 48-Hour Limits, Visa Rules, Partner Work Rights & Part-Time Jobs

Introduction

Australia is one of the world’s most attractive study destinations, offering quality education, diverse career opportunities, and a safe lifestyle. For international students, part-time work is an essential part of the journey – helping with living costs and providing real-world experience.

However, international students must follow strict work rules under the Student Visa (Subclass 500). These rules are managed by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). Understanding your work rights, the 48-hour limit, and dependant work conditions is essential to ensure ongoing visa compliance and protect future pathways such as the 485 Post-Study Work Visa.

This guide provides a complete, expert-level breakdown of your work rights, job search strategies, pay rules, Fair Work protections, and compliance obligations.

What You Will Learn in This Guide

This guide includes:

• Work rights under Student Visa 500
• The 48-hour per fortnight rule
• Partner/dependant work rights
• What counts as work
• When unlimited work rights apply
• Mandatory placement rules
• Example of visa breach
• Part-time jobs and pay rates
• How to find jobs quickly
• Workplace rights and Fair Work laws
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Compliance guidance
• FAQs

Theme 1: Understanding Your Student Visa Work Rights

Working rights under Student Visa 500 are directly connected to your course status, academic requirements, and visa conditions. Understanding these rules helps you work confidently and legally.

Before Your Course Begins

• You cannot work before your course starts unless you held another visa with work rights at the time of applying for your student visa.

This rule ensures your primary intention – studying – is maintained.

The 48-Hour Per Fortnight Rule

• You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session.
• A fortnight = 14 days starting on a Monday.
• This applies across all employers combined.

This limit helps ensure academic progress remains your priority.

TIP: Use apps like Shifty or Timesheet to track overlapping 14-day periods.

When Your Course Is “In Session”

You are considered in session when:

• Your semester or study period is active
• Exams or assessments are being conducted
• You take a subject during break that contributes to your main course

Good to Know: If you are “in session,” the 48-hour limit applies no matter how many jobs you have.

Work Rights at a Glance

Below is a quick reference table summarising your allowed working hours.

When Unlimited Work Hours Are Allowed

Unlimited work rights apply to:

Masters by Research Students

• Full-time, unlimited work rights once the research program begins.

PhD Students

• Full-time, unlimited work rights throughout the candidature.

Mandatory CRICOS-listed Placement

• Unlimited work during the required placement period only.

These exemptions allow students to complete necessary academic or research commitments.

Partner / Dependant Work Rights

Dependant work rights vary based on the student’s level of study.

Common Mistake: Many partners assume they can work full-time – this is only for Master by Research and PhD dependants.

Theme 2: What Counts As Work Under DHA

Understanding what counts as “work” prevents unintentional breaches.

DHA Defines Work As:

You are considered to be working if:

• You are rostered on
• You are physically at work
• You have clocked in
• You have logged in and are waiting for work (e.g., rideshare)
• You receive payment unless proven otherwise

Both paid and unpaid work count, unless it is a mandatory CRICOS-listed placement.

Caution: Unpaid trials still count as work unless part of official course training.

Working Hour Breach Example (Rolling 14 Days)

Weekly Breakdown

Rolling 14-Day Analysis

This example shows how breaches often occur due to overlapping 14-day periods rather than weekly totals.

Theme 3: Part-Time Jobs for International Students

Australia offers plenty of flexible roles suitable for students.

Popular Student Jobs and Pay Rates

Tip: Pay rates vary depending on weekends, nights, and experience.

Theme 4: How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Australia

Follow this practical strategy to find your first job faster.

Step-by-Step Job Search Guide

Prepare an Australian-Style Resume

• Highlight skills, availability, and required certifications (RSA, First Aid, WWCC).

Apply Through Reputable Job Portals

• Seek
• Indeed
• Jora
• LinkedIn
• University job boards

Walk-In Applications

• Highly effective for hospitality and retail roles.

Build Your Network

• Connect with classmates, alumni, mentors, and LinkedIn contacts.

Attend Career Fairs

• Universities frequently offer on-campus work opportunities and pathways.

Most students find their first job within 2–8 weeks of consistent applications.

Theme 5: Workplace Rights, Pay Rules, and Compliance

Australia’s labour laws protect all workers, including international students.

Know Your Pay & Conditions: Use PACT

The Fair Work Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT) helps you check:

• Minimum pay
• Penalty rates
• Overtime
• Break entulations
• Notice and redundancy requirements

Fair Work Rights for Visa Holders

Fair Work Ombudsman provides:

• Multilingual resources
• Free advice
• A complaints channel
• Guides for migrant workers

Staying Visa-Compliant

To stay compliant:

• Do not exceed work limits
• Attend classes regularly
• Maintain course progress
• Keep OSHC active
• Update your address and contact details

Breaches can impact current and future visas, including 485 and PR pathways.

Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid

• Working before the course starts
• Exceeding hours due to overlapping 14-day periods
• Partners working full-time when not eligible
• Accepting cash jobs with no payslips
• Doing unpaid work that still counts
• Poor attendance or academic failure

Avoiding these mistakes ensures smooth visa compliance and future visa success.

How Aussizz Group Supports Your Journey

Aussizz Group provides complete, end-to-end assistance throughout your student journey.

We help with:

• Course and career counselling
• Student Visa 500 applications
• GS (Genuine Student) statements
• University/TAFE/college admissions
• OSHC/OVHC
• 485 Post-Study Work Visa
• Skills assessment
• PR pathway planning

With the right guidance, you can study confidently, work legally, and build your future in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can international students work full-time?

Yes – during scheduled breaks or if you are a Master by Research or PhD student.

Q2. Can partners work full-time?

Only if the student is studying a Master by Research or PhD.

Q3. Does unpaid work count toward 48 hours?

Yes, unless it is a mandatory CRICOS-listed placement.

Q4. Can I work two jobs?

Yes, provided the combined total does not exceed 48 hours per fortnight.

Q5. What happens if I breach work conditions?

You may harm your eligibility for future visas, including 485 or PR.

Q6. How do employers check my work rights?

Through VEVO or your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Conclusion

Working part-time in Australia can be a rewarding and empowering experience, but only when you understand your work rights and visa responsibilities. By staying informed, tracking your hours, and following Australian workplace laws, you can enjoy a safe and productive study journey.

Aussizz Group is here to guide you at every stage — from course selection to PR.

Speak to an Aussizz education or migration expert today.