Top tips for international students looking to work in Australia. Includes strategies for finding a job, tax, juggling work with study, and knowing your rights.

Part time work is a great way to supplement your funds and gain more work experience while you study in Australia. It’s generally not too difficult to find a part time job in Australia, and when you do, you should stay aware of your rights and obligations. Here are the top tips for international students who are working, or are interested in working while they study in Australia.

1. Finding a Job

• Make sure your CV is up to date. Ask a friend to edit your CV or check online for sample CVs. Remember a CV and cover letter may be the very first point of contact with any employer and should help you make a great impression.
• Have a thorough look at any of the major job searching sites in Australia to get an idea of what’s available. Think about the kind of industries you’d like to work in, or those you wouldn’t mind working in, and make a list. Then begin your search and start applying.
• The internet is the best resource for job searches. However, you should also make use of on campus job boards, job placement companies, and newspapers. Go to networking events if you’re looking for something in a specialised industry and be ready to make connections.
• Make some cold calls if necessary. Look for the companies you’d like to work for and give them a brief call. Make sure you email them with a follow up note.
• Many retail and food service jobs hire their staff from those who drop off their CVs in the store or restaurant. Print out your CV and drop them off next time you go out.

2. Tax and Superannuation

Once you’ve found a job, you will need a tax file number (“TFN”) to report your earnings and allow your employer to pay personal income tax on your behalf. If you have Australian savings or investment accounts that earn you interest, you may also need to pay tax on these. Make sure you apply for a TFN well before you need it, as your application may take up to 28 days to be processed by the Australian Tax Office.

At the end of the financial year, on 30 June of every year, you may need to submit an income tax return, which can be done online. For security purposes, keep your TFN to yourself and don’t share it with anyone unless you have to.

Your employer will need to pay superannuation if you earn over $450 per month. Keep all your super statements that you receive from your employer, as you are entitled to receive this super when you permanently depart Australia.

3. Work Hours, Pay, and Conditions

International students can only work up to 20 hours when their course is in session. Working hours are unlimited outside of these times. You are entitled to the same national minimum wage as Australian permanent residents and citizens when you work in Australia if you are not covered by a federal or state award or collective agreement. This is currently set at around $15 per hour (before tax) and may change from year to year.

Make sure you and your employer are clear on frequency of payment, normal working hours, extra pay for working outside normal working hours, and the number of breaks you are allowed. If you encounter any legal issues, you can check out your campus legal service. Many Australian universities have a free legal service open only to their enrolled students.

4. Put Your Studies First

Remember that your visa was granted for your status as a student in Australia. If you are being overwhelmed by juggling both work and study, maybe it’s time to cut back on your hours. Concentrate on getting good grades, and this help with your employment prospects after graduation.

This image took by Jorge de Araujo