For many international students in Australia, having a part-time job can open doors to valuable experience while providing financial support. Nevertheless, it can be a challenge navigating the job market and understanding your rights as a worker. This guide will walk you through the key steps to finding part-time work in Australia, along with useful information on current working legislations and resources for your job search. 

How to find a part-time job in Australia

1. Know your working rights 

Before jumping into job hunting, it’s essential to be familiar with Australian work regulations for international students. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the study period and full-time during designated breaks. These rules ensure that your primary focus remains on your studies. 

The Department of Home Affairs outlines that students must not exceed the allowed work hours while their course is in session. Ensure you stay within these limits to avoid any visa complications. 

International students are also entitled to the same workplace protections as any other worker in Australia. This includes minimum wage, safe working conditions, and protection from unfair dismissal. For more information, check out the Fair Work Ombudsman. 

2. Know your pay rates 

When working as a part-time or casual worker in Australia, understanding how much you can get paid is crucial. The minimum wage for casual employees in Australia is $27.12 per hour as of July 1, 2024, according to Fair Work Australia. Part-time workers typically earn less per hour at the minimum rate $23.23 per hour but receive paid leave and benefits.  

You’ll also be entitled to higher pay on public holidays, weekends, or night shifts, sometimes up to 200% of the base rate. Make sure to confirm your specific industry award for accurate pay rates. 

3. Where you can find part-time jobs 

There are numerous platforms and websites where students can search for part-time jobs in Australia. Here are a few popular ones: 

• Seek: One of the largest job boards in Australia, offering a variety of roles from hospitality to retail and administration. 

• Indeed: Another major job portal that lists both full-time and part-time opportunities across all industries. 

• Jora: Jora offers a wide selection of part-time, casual, and contract roles suited to students. 

You can also look for jobs on your university’s job boards or career sites, as many universities offer exclusive job listings for their students.  

4. Find the right job your you 

When searching for part-time work, it is essential to find a job that suits your skills, interests, and availability. Consider roles that align with your class schedule and provide the flexibility you need to balance study and work. You might also want to think about jobs that offer relevant experience for your future career. 

If you’re looking for flexibility, industries like retail, hospitality, or freelance work often offer part-time and casual positions that can adapt to student life. For students aiming for skill development, jobs in administration, customer service, or tutoring could provide valuable experience related to your field of study. 

Make sure to assess the type of commitment each role requires, and don’t hesitate to communicate your academic priorities during interviews. Matching your job to your lifestyle and future goals is key to a positive part-time work experience. 

5. Prepare your resume & land the job 

When applying for jobs, make sure your resume stands out. Here are a few tips: 

• Tailor your resume to each job: Highlight skills that are most relevant to the position. 

• Focus on transferable skills: Communication, teamwork, time management, and intrapersonal skills are highly valued in most part-time roles. You can also include valuable skills acquired from extracurricular activities.  

• Be prepared for your interview: Once you’ve landed an interview, come ready with background knowledge about the company you’re interviewing for and practice the common questions that might show up.  

Stay on top of what recruiters are looking for, and you’ll soon be landing your desired position.

Ready for your first part-time job in Australia? 

Finding a part-time job as an international student in Australia can be a rewarding experience that not only helps with living expenses but also offers valuable professional development. By knowing the regulations, using the right job search tools, and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be well-equipped to land a job that suits your lifestyle and academic commitments.  

At Edvantage Institute Australia (EIA), we prioritise student success by offering flexible study arrangements tailored to the needs of international students. We encourage diverse experiences outside of an academic setting and promote a healthy work-study balance through timetable arrangements.  

Learn more about how EIA can support your journey at www.eia.edu.au.