Australia is a popular destination for international students because students can gain an internationally recognised education while also gaining work experience. Part-time work can help students manage everyday expenses, develop professional skills and build connections in the Australian job market.
If you are a student in Australia and looking for flexible employment, there are many part-time and casual jobs available across retail, hospitality, tutoring, administration, delivery and other industries.
Can International Students Work Part-Time in Australia?
Yes. Most international students holding an Australian Student visa (subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. Students can generally work unlimited hours when their course is not in session, subject to their visa conditions. Students undertaking a master’s by research or doctoral degree have different work rights. Always check your individual conditions through VEVO.
Students should also remember that Australian workplace laws apply to them. Employers must pay applicable minimum rates and provide payslips.
Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in Australia
1. Retail Assistant
Retail is one of the most common options for students. Supermarkets, clothing stores, shopping centres and specialty shops regularly hire casual and part-time workers.
Typical duties include:
- Helping customers
- Operating the checkout
- Restocking products
- Maintaining the store
- Assisting with inventory
Retail jobs can be particularly suitable for students because evening and weekend shifts may be available.
2. Café or Restaurant Worker
Hospitality is another popular option. Students can find work as waiters, café attendants, kitchen hands, baristas and food-service workers.
These jobs can help students improve their communication skills and gain Australian workplace experience.
3. Tutor
Students with strong academic knowledge can consider tutoring school or university students. Subjects such as mathematics, English, science and languages can offer opportunities.
Online tutoring can be especially convenient because it may allow students to work from home. Current Australian job listings include online tutoring roles for university students and other applicants.
4. Customer Service Jobs
Customer service positions are available in retail companies, education businesses, call centres and other organisations.
Good communication skills and confidence speaking English can be important for these roles.
5. Administrative Assistant
Students studying business, IT, accounting or related subjects may find casual or part-time administrative positions.
Typical responsibilities can include:
- Data entry
- Answering emails
- Scheduling appointments
- Preparing documents
- General office support
These positions can also provide useful experience for a student’s future career.
6. Delivery and Courier Work
Some students choose delivery work because of its flexibility. Depending on the platform and role, workers may deliver food, groceries or other items.
Before accepting this type of work, students should carefully check the legal, tax, insurance and visa requirements that apply to their situation.
7. University Jobs
Universities can be a good place to look for student-friendly employment. Opportunities may include library work, student services, research assistance, campus administration and event support.
University jobs can be convenient because they may fit more easily around a student’s timetable.
8. Internships and Work Experience
Students who want career-related experience can search for part-time internships and student programs.
Current Australian job listings include part-time internships, marketing assistant roles, IT-related opportunities and other student positions.
An internship can be particularly valuable because it combines income or experience with skills relevant to a future career.
Where Can Students Find Part-Time Jobs?
Students can search through online employment websites, university career services, company career pages and local businesses.
One useful starting point is Indeed’s Australian student part-time jobs section, which currently lists roles such as tutoring, hospitality, IT support and other flexible positions.
When searching online, useful keywords include:
- Part-time student jobs Australia
- Casual jobs for students
- International student jobs Australia
- Weekend jobs for students
- Evening jobs Australia
- Student jobs near me
- Part-time hospitality jobs
- Graduate internships Australia
How to Get a Part-Time Job as a Student
Create an Australian-Style Resume
Keep your resume clear and concise. Highlight your education, previous employment, technical skills, communication skills and availability.
If you have limited work experience, include relevant projects, volunteering, internships and transferable skills.
Apply Regularly
Don’t depend on one or two applications. Apply to multiple suitable positions each week and customise your resume when necessary.
Check Your Availability
Employers often want to know when you can work. Clearly mention your available days and times.
For example:
Available: Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings + weekends.
Prepare for Interviews
Be ready to answer questions about your experience, availability, teamwork and customer service skills.
International students should also be prepared to explain their valid work rights when requested.
Important Tips for International Students
Before accepting a job, check your visa conditions. Most Student visa holders are limited to 48 hours of work per fortnight while their course is in session. Working beyond your permitted hours can create visa problems.
Students should also avoid employers who offer illegal cash payments, refuse to provide payslips or offer wages below the applicable legal rate. Australian workplace protections apply to international workers as well.
Final Thoughts
Part-time employment can be a great way for students in Australia to gain work experience, improve communication skills and earn money while studying. Retail, hospitality, tutoring, administration, customer service, university jobs and internships are some of the options worth exploring.
The most important thing is to choose a job that fits your study schedule and to make sure you understand and follow your visa and workplace conditions.
If you are an international student, always check your current visa conditions through the Australian Department of Home Affairs before starting work.