Great question! Part-time work can help international students in Australia cover some of their living expenses, but it’s important to have realistic expectations.

What are the work rights for international students in Australia?

International students can currently work up to 48 hours per fortnight (every 2 weeks) during the academic term, and full-time during scheduled breaks/holidays.

Typical Part-Time Earnings

- Minimum wage in Australia (2024-25): Approx. AUD 24.10/hour (before tax).
- Average hours: If you work 20-24 hours per week, you could earn around AUD 480–580 per week (before tax), depending on your job and location.

Living Expenses

The Australian Government requires proof of living expenses of AUD 29,710 per year (for 2025/26).
- This is about AUD 2,475 per month.

Can Part-Time Work Cover Living Expenses?

- Part-time earnings can help, but may not be enough to cover all expenses, especially in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
- Most students use part-time work to pay for their daily expenses (food, transport, entertainment), but may still need to rely on family support or savings for rent, tuition, and emergencies.
- It’s not advisable to depend solely on part-time income for your entire stay.

Other Points to Consider

- Your primary purpose must be study, so your academic progress should not suffer due to work.
- Some jobs (like hospitality, retail, campus jobs, etc.) are more flexible for students.
- You may be able to earn more if you have special skills, experience, or work in certain sectors.

Summary

Part-time work is helpful, but not enough to fully cover all living and study costs in Australia. You should plan your finances accordingly and meet the proof of funds requirements for your student visa.

If you’d like, Pollster Education can guide you further on budgeting, job search tips, and planning your finances for Australia.

Would you like more information on working in Australia, or advice on how to plan your finances?