Part Time Jobs in Australia for International Students 2025

Taking up part-time jobs in Australia is a common and practical choice for international students. Whether you're hoping to cover everyday expenses, gain exposure to local workplaces, or build a professional network, part-time roles offer real value beyond the paycheck. With the right job, it is possible to earn while studying in Australia and still stay focused on your academic goals.

Why Work Part-Time as an International Student in Australia?

Taking on a part-time job in Australia offers a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond simply covering your living expenses. It's a strategic step that can significantly enhance your academic journey and future career prospects. Top reasons to take up part-time jobs in Australia for Sri Lankan students include:

• Earn an income while studying: Part-time jobs in Australia help cover daily expenses like rent, groceries, and travel, making student life more manageable.
• Gain local work experience: Having Australian experience on your CV boosts your credibility and gives you an edge in the long-term job market. Many student jobs in Australia provide entry-level exposure that can lead to future full-time roles.
• Build essential soft skills: Australia's part-time work allows you to develop communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills. It's valuable in any profession.
• Expand your local network: Working in cafés, shops, or offices lets you connect with people from different backgrounds. These contacts often become references or even future employers.
• Prepare for full-time employment: Part-time jobs for international students serve as a stepping stone to more permanent roles after graduation. They help you understand workplace expectations, etiquette, and employer standards.

Common part-time roles include

International students in Australia find a variety of roles that offer flexibility and a chance to integrate into the local workforce. These positions are often popular due to their availability and suitability for a student's schedule. Common part time roles include:

• Barista or waitstaff at restaurants and cafes
• Retail assistant at clothing or grocery stores
• Office jobs like data entry and front desk support
• Delivery work through platforms like Uber Eats

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available in Australia

Australia's diverse job market offers various sectors where international students commonly find flexible work. These opportunities often align well with academic schedules and provide valuable real-world experience. Popular part-time jobs in Australia for Sri Lankan students include:

Part Time Jobs in Australia: Average Salary and Payment Guidelines

Understanding your earning potential and the payment processes in Australia is crucial for managing your finances while studying. This section outlines typical hourly rates for common student jobs and important payment guidelines you'll need to follow.

Your Payment Essentials

Beyond the hourly rates, there are fundamental steps and practices you must follow to ensure you are paid legally and correctly. These guidelines are vital for all international students working in Australia.

• The minimum wage for students in Australia is AU $24.95 per hour (as of 2025)
• You'll need a Tax File Number (TFN) to get paid legally
• Most part-time job salary in Australia is paid weekly or fortnightly
• Always use an Australian bank account for payments

Part Time Jobs in Australia: Eligibility and Work Hour Restrictions

International students with a valid Student Visa (subclass 500) are legally allowed to take up part-time jobs in Australia. These rights come with specific limits on the number of hours you can work during the academic term and breaks.

Working while studying in Australia is a great way to gain experience and supplement your income, but it's vital to stay within the permitted limits. Breaching Australia student visa work hours can affect your visa status and future applications.

• Open an Australian bank account so your employer can deposit your pay directly.
• Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office. Without a TFN, your part-time job salary in Australia could be taxed at a higher rate.
• Be aware of your rights and entitlements under Australian law. Part-time jobs in Australia must pay fairly and comply with workplace conditions.
• Be cautious of employers offering "cash-in-hand" jobs or asking for unpaid trial work. These practices often violate fair work standards.

Part Time Jobs in Australia: Rights and Responsibilities

International students working part-time jobs in Australia are protected under national workplace laws. Knowing your rights and responsibilities helps you avoid exploitation and ensures a safe, fair working experience.

Your Rights as a Worker

As an international student working in Australia, you are entitled to the same fundamental workplace protections as any other employee. Understanding these rights is your first step to ensuring a fair, safe, and respectful working experience.

• Fair pay: You're entitled to at least the national minimum wage. The rate varies by role and age. Check the Fair Work Ombudsman for the latest figures, including the minimum wage for students Australia-wide.
• Payslips: Your employer must give you a payslip within one working day of being paid. This will show your earnings, tax, and any superannuation contributions.
• Superannuation contributions: If eligible, your employer must pay superannuation into your account. You may be able to claim this back when leaving Australia.
• Safe working conditions: Australia's part-time work must meet national health and safety standards. You should receive training, access to clean facilities, and protection through workers' compensation insurance if you're injured or become ill on the job.
• Freedom from discrimination: You have the right to a workplace free from discrimination based on race, gender, disability, religion, or age.
• Protection from bullying and harassment: Bullying, intimidation, or sexual harassment at work is unlawful and can be reported.
• Unfair dismissal protection: If you're fired in an unjust or unreasonable way, you may file a complaint with the Fair Work Commission within 21 days.

Your Responsibilities

While the Australian workplace offers many protections, you also have important responsibilities as an employee. Adhering to these duties is crucial for maintaining your visa status and contributing positively to your workplace.

• Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) and provide it to your employer to avoid being overtaxed.
• Follow Australia student visa work hours by not exceeding 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.
• Comply with health and safety guidelines in your workplace.

Part Time Jobs in Australia: Balancing Work and Study

Maintaining a healthy balance between your academic commitments and part-time work is key to a successful experience as an international student in Australia. This section provides essential 'dos and don'ts' to help you navigate this important aspect of student life effectively

Do's of Part Time Jobs in Australia

• Create a weekly timetable for classes and shifts: Proactively map out all your academic deadlines, class times, and work shifts. A clear visual schedule, whether digital or physical, helps you allocate sufficient time for each commitment and avoid conflicts.
• Set limits on the number of work hours: Be realistic about how many hours you can genuinely work without compromising your studies or well-being. Remember to always stay within your visa's permitted 48-hour per fortnight limit.
• Talk to your employer about flexible hours: Openly communicate your academic schedule and exam periods with your employer. Many workplaces are understanding of student commitments and may offer flexible rostering to accommodate your study needs.

Don'ts of Part Time Jobs in Australia

• Prioritise work over studies: Always remember that your primary purpose for being in Australia on a student visa is to study. Allowing work to consistently overshadow your academic responsibilities can jeopardise your visa status and educational goals.
• Take back-to-back shifts on class days: Overloading your schedule with long shifts, especially before or after classes, can lead to exhaustion, reduced focus in lectures, and difficulty completing assignments effectively.
• Ignore signs of burnout or fatigue: Pay attention to your physical and mental health. Persistent tiredness, stress, or a lack of motivation are signs you might be overdoing it. Prioritise rest, healthy eating, and leisure to maintain your well-being.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Studying and working in a new country brings opportunities, but also a few challenges. Here are some common difficulties and practical tips to help manage them, especially if you're balancing study with part-time jobs in Australia.

• Challenge: English not being your first language can make coursework and social conversations difficult.
• Tip: Practice English daily by joining language exchange meetups or conversation clubs at the university. Interacting with classmates and locals outside class helps, especially if you're working student jobs in Australia.

• Challenge: Adjusting to new customs, slang, or social cues can feel overwhelming.
• Tip: Attend university orientation, join student clubs, and ask questions. Locals are usually happy to explain. Learning Australian expressions will also help in casual settings, including Australian part-time work.

• Challenge: Starting over socially can be intimidating, especially when you're far from home.
• Tip: Say hello to the person next to you in class. Join social clubs or campus events. A support system makes it easier to manage both study and work while studying in Australia.

• Challenge: Missing home, especially when your family is far away, can affect your well-being.
• Tip: Stay connected with home, but also get involved in campus life. Many universities host cultural groups or events where you can meet people from similar backgrounds.

• Challenge: Entering a new job market with no local experience can lead to early rejections.
• Tip: Start with internships, volunteer roles, or casual student jobs in Australia. These can lead to better part-time jobs in Australia and help with your student job search Australia-wide.

• Challenge: Balancing coursework and part-time jobs in Australia can be difficult, especially if English is a second language.
• Tip: Join study groups, use university academic support services, and talk to your tutors if you're falling behind. Managing time well is key when working under Australian student visa work hours.

Part-time jobs in Australia offer more than just financial support. They provide a pathway to local work experience, social integration, and career growth. Whether you're working at a bookstore or tutoring peers, each role adds value. Stay aware of visa limits, prioritise academics, and explore the many jobs for international students across Australian cities. Need help with your student job search in Australia? Reach out to AECC Sri Lanka for personalised guidance.

Part Time Jobs in Australia FAQs