Australia get job opportunities while studying?
Not long ago, I shared with you a favorable policy update from the Australian federal government regarding the working hours for international students. From July 1, 2023, the maximum working hours for international students during their studies will be relaxed from 40 hours per two weeks to 48 hours per two weeks, and there will still be no restrictions during holidays.
After the news was released, we received many inquiries from students about work opportunities during their study in Australia. In order to help everyone unlock the important components of study abroad life more smoothly, StudyAdelaide will bring you a comprehensive “Adelaide International Student Work Guide” from the following three aspects . While students can gain quality education, they can also reduce their financial burden, improve their English skills, broaden their interpersonal relationships and accumulate rich experience.
- What should international students know about working in Australia?
- What are some tips for international students looking for jobs in Australia?
- How many exclusive resources has StudyAdelaide prepared for international students?
Work Tips for International Students
Before starting work, students first need to understand some basic requirements and guarantees to give themselves peace of mind.
About student visa requirements
Students who come to Australia to study usually apply for a student visa (subclass 500). This visa allows international students to work legally in Australia, but it must be done after the course begins . From July 1 this year, the maximum work limit for international students during the semester is 48 hours per two weeks (there is no limit for research masters and doctoral students).
However, in order to ensure a good balance between study and work, students also need to abide by:
- Complete normal registration for the course
- Ensure class attendance
- Ensure the corresponding course progress, etc.
About different types of work
Australian international students usually consider the following two types of jobs during their studies . Students can choose according to their own circumstances and needs:
Part-time work
Part-time employees will receive the same benefits as full-time employees on a pro rata basis , accumulating entitlements such as annual leave and sick leave through continuous and regular work;
Temporary
workers have greater flexibility and higher hourly wages , but their hours are not as secure as part-time workers and they are not eligible for paid vacation.
On workers’ rights
As a country that values ”fairness and equality”, Australia provides comprehensive protection for all workers . Students do not need to worry about being at a disadvantage because of their “student status” or “part-time nature”.
The following are some important rights and interests of international students at work . Please remember to mark them down:
- Employers must provide employees with a safe and healthy work environment;
- Employers do not have the right to require employees to do a “free trial work”;
- Employers are required to provide employees with regular pay slips showing wages and taxes;
- For employees aged 18 and over with a monthly income of more than A$450, employers are required to pay superannuation for them;
- Employers cannot offer wages below the statutory standard (currently AUD 21.38 per hour);
- Employers cannot fire employees for reasons such as illness, injury or pregnancy;
- Written notice must be given before dismissal.
Job Hunting Strategies for International Students
After understanding these key information, the next step is to start looking for a job. Australia provides a highly inclusive and friendly environment for international students , and many industries have open part-time or temporary jobs.
Taking Adelaide as an example, the following industries and positions are popular choices for international students :
- Retail – supermarkets, department stores, clothing stores, etc.
- Catering industry – coffee shops, bars, restaurants, etc.
- Tourism – Hotels, travel agencies, etc.
- Sales and Marketing
- Administration and Clerical
- Education and training industry
- Large local job search websites
such as SEEK (seek.com.au), Indeed (au.indeed.com), etc. - The school provides job search platforms, campus jobs, campus job fairs, employer campus activities, etc.
The University of Adelaide, Flinders University and the University of South Australia all have Career Hubs specifically set up for their students. Students can unlock rich resources by logging into their respective school accounts. At the same time, it is also recommended that students pay more attention to and participate in the above campus activities. - Recruitment information on corporate official websites, job fairs in various sectors, industry exchange activities, and online professional social platforms (such as LinkedIn)
- Introduction to teachers, classmates, seniors, etc.
After finding the position you are interested in, it is time to apply and interview . I would like to remind you that you should prepare specifically for each different company/position , and avoid applying the same thing all the time.
Resume : Summarize your personal information, educational background, work experience, social activities/volunteer experience, special skills, etc. in your resume, especially those experiences and abilities related to the recruitment position .
Cover letter : A cover letter is another document that you need to submit with your application. Use your cover letter to focus on your strengths and suitability for the job , but don’t repeat what you wrote in your resume. Some companies will also ask you to explain why you meet the selection criteria .
Interview : Familiarize yourself with the company background and job requirements in advance , and prepare answers to questions about your strengths, weaknesses, achievements, etc. During the interview, dress appropriately, be polite and enthusiastic, and maintain eye contact.
StudyAdelaide exclusive resources
Do you want to boost your job search success rate? No problem! StudyAdelaide’s latest [Adelaide Career Advantage Program ] has been launched!
Through a series of free lectures , you can improve your all-round abilities from part-time work to full-time employment. At the same time, you will have the opportunity to meet professional experts in various fields to maximize the realization of your job search goals!
- April 5
Guest Speaker – Human Resources Manager - April 12
Cover Letter Writing Guide - Interview preparation on April 13
- Mock interview practice on April 20
- April 27
Guest Speaker – Interview Insights - May 4th
Industry Exchange and LinkedIn Profile Creation - Things to know about Australian business culture on May 11
- May 18:
The first 100 days in a new job - May 25
Guest Speaker – Success in the Workplace
Interested students please scan the QR code to sign up
At the same time, I would like to remind you that StudyAdelaide also launched the Job Shop online job search platform at the beginning of last year ! There are more than 100 part-time/temporary job opportunities for international students in Adelaide on this platform, which should not be missed!
Students can here:
- Check the latest job information of government departments and various industries;
- Submit your application in advance (you can even apply before going abroad);
- Understand the corporate culture and recruitment requirements of well-known employers;
- View more FAQs about international student work
