Detailed Guide on Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Australia: Jobs, Rules & Regulations, Visa Requirements

Australia is the third most popular study-abroad destination for international students. Although education in Australia is less expensive than in the United States, living costs in Australia are rather high. To manage the expenses, students often choose to work part-time. The Australian government allows international students to work up to 48 hours a week on a part-time basis. In this blog, we will explore part-time jobs in Australia for international students:

Benefits of Part-Time Jobs in Australia

Part-time jobs in Australia offer several benefits for individuals, especially for students, parents, and those seeking flexibility in their work schedules. Here are some of the advantages of part-time employment in Australia:

1. Flexible Schedule: Part-time jobs often allow for more flexibility in terms of work hours, making it easier to balance work with other commitments such as education, childcare, or another part-time job.
2. Income Supplement: Part-time work can provide an additional source of income for individuals who may not be able to work full-time due to various reasons. It can help cover living expenses, and tuition fees, or save for future goals.
3. Gain Work Experience: Part-time jobs provide valuable work experience and help individuals build their resumes, enhancing their employability in the future.
4. Networking Opportunities: Working part-time can allow individuals to network within their chosen industry or field, potentially leading to future job opportunities or career advancement.
5. Improved Time Management: Balancing part-time work with other responsibilities teaches effective time management skills, which can be valuable in all aspects of life.
6. Reduced Financial Stress: Even though part-time jobs may not offer as high a salary as full-time positions, they can help reduce financial stress and provide a sense of financial security.
7. Development of Soft Skills: Part-time work often requires individuals to develop and enhance soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and customer service, which are valuable in any career.
8. Access to Employee Benefits: Some part-time jobs may offer benefits such as healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off, which can contribute to overall well-being.
9. Maintain Work-Life Balance: Part-time work can allow individuals to maintain a better work-life balance, reducing the risk of burnout and improving overall mental and physical health.
10. Test Career Paths: For students or individuals exploring different career paths, part-time jobs can serve as a way to gain exposure to various industries and roles before committing to a full-time career.
11. Opportunity for Remote Work: With the growth of remote work options, many part-time jobs can be done from the comfort of one’s home, eliminating the need for commuting and offering added convenience.
12. Enhanced Language Skills: Part-time jobs can be particularly beneficial for individuals learning a new language, as they provide an opportunity to practice and improve language skills in a real-world setting.
13. Contribute to the Economy: Part-time workers play a crucial role in the UK’s economy by filling labour gaps and supporting businesses that rely on flexible staffing arrangements.

Type of Part-Time Jobs in Australia

International students might find a variety of part-time jobs in Australia. Students in Australia can work part-time and earn extra money based on their skills, interests, pay range, and schedule. Here are some of the greatest part-time work businesses for international students.

Part-Time Jobs for Students in Australia: On-Campus 

Part-time positions that are offered in an institute or college campus are referred to as on-campus employment. These jobs are at a good location and can give students useful work experience in their field of study. These can also be jobs that take up less of their time and effort to help them focus better on their studies. 

The library, gymnasiums, reception rooms, cafeterias, computer laboratories, and other university support are typical places to find on-campus employment. These might also include ongoing research projects at a university. Finding on-campus employment, however, might be difficult due to less availability, and not all students may be successful.

Part-Time Jobs for Students in Australia: Off-Campus 

International students have the chance to work off-campus while pursuing their higher education in the UK. These occupations are typically easier to find, but they could involve travel or commuting. Office assistants, waiters and waitresses, receptionists, data entry operators, and other positions are examples of off-campus part-time employment. To work part-time off-campus, students must receive permission from their educational institution.

Part-Time Jobs for Students in Australia: Online

These types of part-time employment give overseas students in the UK another route to self-sustenance. These employment opportunities are advantageous for students, especially those enrolled in challenging degree programs because they can be accessed and carried out remotely.

Only a desktop or computer system and a steady internet connection are needed for online part-time work, which is easily accessible to students. There are several options for online employment, including remote careers in freelance fields like graphic design, video editing, content writing, and virtual support.

Also Read: Part time jobs in Perth for International Students

Rules and Regulations to Get Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students

International students in Australia have specific rules and regulations they must adhere to when seeking and working in part-time jobs. It’s important to understand and comply with these regulations to ensure that you maintain your student visa status and follow Australian labour laws. Here are the key rules and regulations for international students seeking part-time jobs in Australia:

1. Visa Type: You must have an appropriate student visa to work in Australia. Most student visas (subclass 500) allow international students to work up to 40 hours per fortnight (two weeks) during the academic semester and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (such as semester breaks and holidays).
2. Enrollment Requirements: You must be enrolled in a full-time course at an accredited institution in Australia to be eligible to work part-time. Ensure that you meet your course attendance and academic progress requirements.
3. Tax File Number (TFN): To work legally in Australia, you should apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Employers use this number to withhold taxes from your income. You can apply for a TFN online through the ATO’s website.
4. Superannuation: Some employers may be required to contribute to your superannuation fund (retirement savings) if you are eligible. You can usually claim this money when you leave Australia.
5. Work Limitations: International students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic semester. You can work more than 40 hours during semester breaks and holidays. There are no work hour limits for students pursuing a Master’s by Research or Doctoral degree.
6. Workplace Rights: You have the same workplace rights as Australian workers. This includes being paid the minimum wage and having a safe and fair working environment.
7. Minimum Wage: Australia has a minimum wage, and employers must pay you at least this amount for the work you do. The minimum wage can vary, so check the Fair Work Commission website for the current rate.
8. Workplace Health and Safety: Employers are required to provide a safe working environment. If you feel unsafe or face any workplace issues, you can seek assistance from the Fair Work Ombudsman or your university’s support services.
9. Employment Contracts: It’s advisable to have a written employment contract with your employer outlining your terms of employment, including pay rate, working hours, and job responsibilities.
10. Student Union or Career Services: Your university’s student union or career services office can provide guidance and resources for finding part-time jobs, including job fairs, resume assistance, and job postings.
11. Work During Internships or Work-Integrated Learning (WIL): Some courses may include internships or work-integrated learning components. These may have specific requirements, and you should check with your institution and course coordinator for guidance.
12. Post-Study Work Visa: After completing your studies in Australia, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa, which allows you to work full-time. The conditions and duration of this visa vary based on your level of study and location.

Also Read: Part-time jobs in Melbourne for earning a high salary for International Students?

International Students’ Taxes in Australia

An international student who stays in Australia for more than six months is considered an Australian resident for tax reasons. Even if the student decides to work part-time, he must pay the tax if his income is $18,200 or more. In Australia, they will be required to pay income tax for the fiscal year ending June 30.

Eligibility Criteria for Part-Time Jobs in Australia 

Here are the key eligibility criteria for international students seeking part-time jobs in Australia in a simplified format:

1. Valid Student Visa: You must have a valid student visa (subclass 500).
2. Full-Time Enrollment: You should be enrolled as a full-time student in a registered course and maintain academic progress.
3. Work Limitations: Work hours depend on your course level; generally, up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic semester and unlimited hours during breaks (except for PhD students).

How to Get a Part-Time Job in Australia as a Student?

Here’s a concise version of how to get a part-time job in Australia as a student:

1. Ensure eligibility: Hold a valid student visa and maintain full-time enrollment.
2. Prepare documents: Obtain a Tax File Number (TFN) and create a tailored resume.
3. Search actively: Use job websites, attend job fairs, and explore campus postings.
4. Visit career services: Seek assistance from university career centres.
5. Apply and follow up: Customize applications, and persistently follow up.
6. Network: Join student organizations and attend social events.
7. Prepare for interviews: Practice interview skills and research companies.
8. Be flexible: Consider diverse part-time job opportunities.
9. Comply with visa rules: Abide by work-hour restrictions on your visa.
10. Maintain balance: Prioritize studies alongside work commitments.
11. Know workplace rights: Familiarize yourself with Australian labour laws.
12. Stay updated: Keep informed about visa regulations and employment laws.

Also Read: Part-time jobs in New Zealand International Students

How much can you work in Australia?

The amount you can work in Australia as an international student depends on your visa type and course level. Here’s a general guideline:

1. Student Visa (subclass 500):

• During the academic semester: You can work up to 40 hours per fortnight (two weeks) while your course is in session.
• During scheduled breaks: There are no work hour restrictions. You can work unlimited hours during semester breaks, holidays, and during the period between courses if you’re transitioning to a new course.

1. Master’s by Research or Doctoral (Ph.D.) Students:

• There are no work hour limits for students pursuing a Master’s by Research or Doctoral degree. You can work full-time if you wish.

Employment Rights in Australia

Working in Australia comes with its perks. Here are some of the employment rights in Australia. Note: International students are allowed to work more than 40 hours a fortnight during a semester. However, during the summer breaks they are allowed to work as much as they want. 

• Public holidays
• Long service leave
• Annual leave
• Community service leave
• Compassionate leave and personal carer’s leave
• Parental leave and related entitlements
• Provision of a Fair Work Information Statement
• Notice of termination and redundancy pay
• Requests for flexible working arrangements

Popular Part-time Job Fields in Australia

Here are popular part-time job fields for international students in Australia along with approximate average wages. Please note that wages can vary based on location, experience, and specific job roles.

Retail Sales	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Hospitality (e.g., servers, bartenders, baristas)	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Customer Service Representative	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Administrative Assistant	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Delivery Driver	AUD 20 – AUD 30 per hour
Tutoring (private)	AUD 25 – AUD 40 per hour
Sales Promoter	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Data Entry	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Childcare (babysitting)	AUD 20 – AUD 30 per hour
Gardening/Landscaping	AUD 20 – AUD 30 per hour
Pet Sitting/Dog Walking	AUD 20 – AUD 25 per hour
Content Creation (freelance)	Varies widely
Online Tutoring	AUD 25 – AUD 40 per hour
Virtual Assistant	AUD 20 – AUD 30 per hour
E-commerce (online sales)	Varies widely

Part-time jobs in Australia: Average Salary 

The average salary of part-time jobs in Australia is as follows: 

Part-Time Jobs	Average Salary per hour (AUD)
Waiter	AUD 17.97
Tutor	AUD 29.45
Personal trainer	AUD 30.62
Customer Service Representative	AUD 51,969

Part-time jobs available in Major Australian Cities

Here we have listed the highest-paying part-time jobs in specific Australian cities. For example, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, etc.

Part-Time Jobs in Sydney

The following are the part-time jobs in Sydney

Part-time jobs	Average pay per month
Warehouse operator	AUD 2,804
Sales Assistant	AUD 2,320
Cashier	AUD 2,000
Administration and Support	AUD 2,846

Also Read: Part-time job options in Sydney for International Students

Part-Time Jobs in  Melbourne

The following are the part-time jobs in Melbourne

Part-time jobs	Average pay per month
Customer Service Attendant	AUD 4000
International Student Support Officer	AUD 5,000
Administration Support Officer	AUD 2,603
Student Services Officer	AUD 1,799

Part-Time Jobs in Perth

The following are the part-time jobs in Perth

Part-time jobs	Average pay per month
Marketing Consultant	AUD 2,800
Pharmacy Assistant	AUD 2,000
Customer Service Representative	AUD 3,000
Accounts Assistant	AUD 2,083

Part-Time Jobs in Canberra

The following are the part-time jobs in  Canberra

Part-time jobs	Average pay per month
OSHC Assistant Coordinators	AUD 2,080
Pharmacy Assistant	AUD 1,920
Sales Assistant	AUD 2,160
Academic Tutors	AUD 2,400

Success Tips for Newcomers 

Below are some tips that you must consider when applying for any part-time job in Australia:

• On-Campus Work: Vacant opportunities for lab assistants, research assistants, and teaching assistants are frequently available in most Australian universities. A simple look at the college’s human resources website could yield useful information regarding open positions on campus. Search for your college’s website and apply for vacancies, if there are any.
• Focus on the Career Fairs: Pay close attention to the college’s career fairs held during different semesters. While most of the companies in these fairs are looking for interns and full-time employees, some do have part-time openings. 
• Build Your CV Carefully: The majority of part-time job schedules are flexible, and the vast majority of them pay bi-weekly. However, competition is fierce because the number of part-time jobs available is always less than the number of applicants. Hence, it is always advisable to have that competitive edge in your CV over others’. Highlight your major skills and strengths in your CV. Be sincere when expressing facts and provide numbers to back up your claims. 
• It’s OK to Say NO!: Working while studying provides several benefits. However, finding the right balance is important if you want to reap the benefits of working as a student for years to come. If the extra shifts are taking away from your revision time, don’t be afraid to say no. To be honest and transparent with your employer about your working hours, make time for yourself.

Also Read: Skilled Independent Visa in Australia?

FAQs

This is the complete guide that will help you learn more about the working culture in Australia. If you are also looking to pursue a course in Australia, reach out to our study abroad experts for a better understanding of your admission requirements and follow Leverage Edu for more informational content.

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