Finding a part time job in Australia is one of the most important goals for international students. While studying abroad, students not only want to earn a recognised qualification but also need income to manage living costs, gain local work experience, and build confidence in a new country.
Australia is one of the best countries in the world for international students who want to work while studying. With clear work regulations, strong labour protections, and a wide range of casual and part-time roles, students can legally earn money without affecting their studies. In fact, many international students successfully support themselves through part-time work while gaining valuable Australian work experience.
This guide explains everything you need to know about part time jobs in Australia—from legal work rules and pay rates to the best student jobs, where to find them, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Can International Students Do Part Time Jobs in Australia?
Yes. International students on a valid Australian student visa are legally allowed to work part time while studying.
Under current visa conditions:
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Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
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Students can work unlimited hours during official semester breaks
This system allows students to balance work and study without academic pressure. Many students work 15–24 hours per week comfortably alongside their classes.
Australia strictly regulates employment conditions to protect workers, including international students. Employers must follow minimum wage laws and workplace safety rules.
Why Part Time Jobs Are So Popular Among International Students in Australia
A part time job in Australia offers much more than just income.
1. Helps Cover Living Costs
Australia’s living costs can be high, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. A part-time job helps students pay for rent, food, transport, and personal expenses.
2. Builds Australian Work Experience
Local work experience improves your resume and makes it easier to find full-time employment after graduation.
3. Improves English & Communication Skills
Daily interaction with customers and colleagues significantly improves English fluency and workplace confidence.
4. Expands Professional & Social Networks
Many students find future job opportunities through contacts made in part-time roles.
Average Pay Rate for Part Time Jobs in Australia
Australia has one of the highest minimum wages in the world.
As of recent standards:
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Minimum hourly wage: approx. AUD 23+ per hour
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Casual jobs: Often pay extra casual loading (higher hourly rate)
Typical Student Job Pay Ranges
| Job Type | Hourly Pay (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Hospitality (Cafe/Restaurant) | $23 – $30 |
| Retail Assistant | $23 – $28 |
| Delivery Driver | $25 – $35 |
| Warehouse Worker | $25 – $32 |
| Cleaning Jobs | $25 – $30 |
| Admin / Office Assistant | $25 – $35 |
Pay rates may increase for:
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Night shifts
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Weekends
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Public holidays
Best Part Time Jobs in Australia for International Students
1. Hospitality Jobs (Cafes, Restaurants, Takeaway)
Hospitality is the most common part time job in Australia for students.
Roles include:
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Waiter / waitress
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Kitchen hand
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Barista
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Fast food crew member
Why students choose it:
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Easy entry
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Flexible shifts
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Tips in some venues
2. Retail Jobs
Retail stores regularly hire students, especially in shopping centres.
Common roles:
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Sales assistant
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Cashier
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Store support staff
Benefits:
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Fixed rosters
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Clean work environment
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Customer service experience
3. Delivery Jobs (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Menulog)
Delivery work has become extremely popular among students.
Why it’s attractive:
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Flexible working hours
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Higher hourly earnings
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No fixed schedule
Students can work using:
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Bicycle
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Scooter
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Car
4. Warehouse & Factory Jobs
Warehouses offer physically demanding but higher-paying roles.
Typical tasks:
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Packing
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Sorting
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Loading/unloading
Best for:
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Students wanting higher pay
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Those available for early morning or night shifts
5. Cleaning Jobs
Cleaning jobs are widely available and often pay well.
Work locations:
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Offices
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Commercial buildings
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Residential properties
Why students choose it:
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Minimal interaction
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Flexible timing
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Stable income
6. On-Campus Jobs
Many universities offer part-time jobs on campus.
Examples:
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Library assistant
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Student ambassador
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Admin support
Advantages:
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Study-friendly schedules
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Safe work environment
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No travel time
Best Cities in Australia for Part Time Jobs
Melbourne
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Strong hospitality and retail job market
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Competitive but abundant opportunities
Sydney
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Higher wages
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More competition
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Higher living costs
Brisbane
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Growing job market
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Lower living costs
Adelaide & Regional Cities
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Less competition
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Lower rent
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Easier job access for students
Where to Find Part Time Jobs in Australia
Online Job Platforms
Direct Walk-In Applications
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Cafes
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Restaurants
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Retail stores
University Job Boards
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On-campus job portals
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Career service offices
Networking
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Friends
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Classmates
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Community groups
Legal Rights for International Students Working in Australia
International students have the same workplace rights as Australians.
You are legally entitled to:
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Minimum wage
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Payslips
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Superannuation (retirement contributions)
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Safe working conditions
If an employer violates your rights, you can contact
Fair Work Ombudsman
for free assistance.
Common Mistakes Students Make with Part Time Jobs
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Working more than allowed hours
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Accepting cash-in-hand jobs with underpayment
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Not checking pay slips
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Ignoring superannuation
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Prioritising work over studies
These mistakes can cause visa issues and long-term problems.
Tips to Balance Study and Part Time Work
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Limit work to 15–24 hours per week during semesters
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Choose jobs with flexible rosters
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Avoid late-night shifts before class days
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Track your work hours carefully
Remember: your student visa is primarily for study.
Can Part Time Jobs Help with Future Careers?
Yes—absolutely.
A part time job in Australia helps you:
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Build local references
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Understand Australian workplace culture
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Improve employability after graduation
Many students transition from part-time roles into:
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Internships
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Graduate programs
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Full-time jobs
Final Thoughts: Is a Part Time Job in Australia Worth It?
A part time job in Australia is more than a way to earn money—it is a stepping stone toward independence, confidence, and long-term success.
Australia offers one of the safest and most student-friendly working environments in the world. With fair wages, flexible hours, and strong legal protection, international students can work while studying without compromising their education.
If managed wisely, part-time work can significantly improve your financial stability, professional skills, and overall student experience in Australia.