Working in Australia as an international student

Can I work in Australia with a student visa?

International students and dependants in Australia on student dependant visas who are residing in Australia will automatically receive permission to work with their visa grant. Most student visa holders will no longer need to apply separately in Australia for permission to work. Please note that a Tax File Number is required before undertaking work.

More information about applying for the student visa with permission to work, the Tax File Number, and obtaining part-time work while studying, will be given during Orientation week. Information about dependants working will be covered in the Families of International Students session during Orientation week.

How many hours a week can I work?

Holders of a student visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their University program is in session, and full-time during University vacations. In general, students should not expect to cover tuition fees or living expenses from casual work. 

Whilst RHD applicants are entitled to work unlimited hours they must maintain full-time enrolment in their studies and progress to the satisfaction of the Dean, UQ Graduate School. This includes meeting milestones in the timeframes outlined in the policy 4.60.05 Research Higher Degree Candidature Progression and Development. Students holding a UQ scholarship will be entitled to undertake paid work as per the UQ Research Scholarship General Conditions. Students studying at UQ on an externally funded scholarship should contact their scholarship provider regarding the number of hours they are permitted to work each week.

What type of work am I likely  to find? 

Part-time work is not difficult to find, however, there is strong competition. An Employment Officer at UQ St Lucia can help students look for part-time work, most of which is non-professional, such as waiting on tables, cleaning or sales.

The University does not have a formal program of teaching assistantships or graduate assistantships. However, research higher degree students may possibly find employment as research or tutorial assistants. These positions are not guaranteed and interested students should contact relevant schools for details.

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