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Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students

Last updated: 12 February 2024 Student Finance

Working part-time can sound counterintuitive, yet rewarding as it enables you to be financially independent. If you are looking for part-time jobs while studying abroad, Australia is the third most popular educational destination, attracting millions of students annually. It has a rich cultural heritage, world-class education, and many employment opportunities for part-time jobs in Australia for international students. 

According to a Department of Education for International Students in Australia survey, ninety per cent of international students are content with their living and educational experiences. This is because students in Australia have access to a diverse range of part-time jobs that allow them to fund their studies while also developing information and skills that will be valuable when studying overseas.

Learn more about combining study with part-time jobs in Australia below.

part-time student jobs australia

Benefits of Part-Time Jobs in Australia

Working part-time in Australia can benefit you, especially in building your academic and professional experience. Here are five reasons why you should work part-time while studying in Australia

1. Become financially independent

Working part-time gives you brownie points to earn extra money, helping you cover your educational, transportation, and grocery expenses. This financial independence can reduce the family burden and personal savings. 

2. Skills Development

Strong interpersonal skills and high-skill experience make for an exceptional career profile. Working part-time improves one's ability to lead, communicate, collaborate, solve problems, and manage time effectively. These abilities are critical for success in the job, in school, and in one's growth. 

3. Cultural Exposure

Student part-time jobs in Australia offer opportunities to build a professional network within your field of study or in other industries. Networking can open gates for future career opportunities, internships, and potential collaborations in academic fields. 

4. Building Personal Growth

Another advantage of working part-time in Australia is it can contribute to personal growth and independence. It challenges navigating a new environment, making decisions, and adapting to different situations. 

5. Resume-Gap Filling

If there are breaks in your academic career, working part-time can help fill those gaps on your resume. This indicates that you are actively engaged and productive during your time abroad. 

Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students

Part-time employment is defined as working less than 30 hours a week. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, here is some significant information about part-time employment in Australia. 

Part-time employment rate

30.2%

Total Part-timers (as of Dec 2022)

4,304,800

High-demanding job sectors

Retail sales, Education, Management, and Hospitality

Minimum wage

$23.23 hourly

Total monthly hours of work

20 hours per week

Part-time jobs in Australia

Retail sales, tutor, driver, call center worker, etc. 

International students can only work once the session begins. Also, students pursuing post-graduate research can work unlimited hours when the research work or doctoral thesis begins. In addition, students completing the Australian study requirement can apply for a post-study work permit in the undergraduate stream. Students enrolled in ELICOS cannot apply for a post-study work permit.

Types of Part-Time Jobs in Australia

Finding the right part-time job in Australia is relatively easy if you have the right communication skills, meet the eligibility, and have the proper networking. A good CV or resume makes a positive first impression on the organisation and helps you bag the job interview. 

Many Australian universities assist students in creating and formatting resumes that list students' skills, experience, education, and interests. They also provide on-campus and off-campus part-time job opportunities for international students. Here are the types of part-time work that students can opt for while studying. 

Eligibility Criteria

Top Cities in Australia to Work

Australia is among the best countries for international students to live and work. Here are some of the best cities in Australia for part-time jobs. 

Best Australian cities for jobs

Top employers

Average cost of living

Adelaide, South Australia

Apple, Westpac Group, Deloitte, Commonwealth Bank of Australia

$1800 - $2200

Brisbane, Queensland

Dominos Pizza, Suncorp, Star Entertainment Group

$2100 - $2300

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Accenture, IBM, PwC

$1700-$2000

Melbourne, Victoria

IBM, Apple, Chevron

$1700-$1900

Perth, Western Australia

Accenture, PwC, BHP, Apple

$1900 -$2200

Study in Australia

If you want to study in Australia and work part-time, contact SI-ANZ today for a free consultation on your future.

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"SI-Australia helped me successfully apply to study business in Australia and I cannot thank them enough for their support. They assisted me with each step, ensuring I was aware of all my options in terms of program and university selection, making the process totally stress free"

Isabella Ramos Business and Management

Isabella Ramos