Australia: Latest Work Hour Updates for International Students

Who should read this?

• Student Visa (Subclass 500) Holder in Australia

What's the latest update?

• From 1 July onwards, work hours will be capped at 48 hours per fortnight for international students in Australia.
• Prior to this, work hour restrictions were temporarily removed due to the COVID pandemic.

Are there exceptions to this update?

• Yes. International students who were already working in the aged care sector on 9 May 2023 can continue to work unlimited hours until 31 December 2023. 

What about study breaks?

• The 48 hour per fortnight cap is applicable during your study period.
• You are allowed to work unlimited hours during study breaks.

Does this update only apply to students who enrolled after 1 July?

• No. The 48 work hours per fortnight cap applies to all international students in Australia, no matter when you began your studies.

Have my work rights changed?

• Aside from limited work hours, your work rights remain the same.
• International students in Australia have the same work rights under Australian workplace law as any employee.

Why is Australia re-introducing work hour restrictions?

• The temporary relaxation of work hour restrictions during the pandemic was to help relieve labour shortage in Australia, and allow international students to bolster their income.
• Yet, the main purpose of a student visa is to study in Australia. The work hour cap is intended to balance students' need to support themselves financially with the main purpose of studying.