Work legally in Australia — protect your future, your visa, and your rights. Australia continues to be a top destination for international students, offering world-class education and a diverse cultural experience. Many students also seek part-time work to support their studies and gain local experience. But working in Australia involves more than just finding a job — especially for international students. It means understanding what’s legal under your visa conditions and what could potentially jeopardize your future.
Working legally in Australia protects more than just your income. It safeguards your visa status, future work opportunities, and even your pathway to permanent residency.
Why Legal Work Matters
International students in Australia are subject to the same employment rights as any local worker — including minimum wage, safe working conditions, and superannuation entitlements. However, additional rules apply due to your visa conditions.
As of 2024, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic periods, and unlimited hours during official breaks. If you’re engaged in a required course-related placement, such as in nursing or teaching, this is usually not counted toward your 48-hour limit — but always confirm with your education provider and the Department of Home Affairs.
Violating these restrictions, even unintentionally, can lead to visa cancellation or loss of eligibility for a graduate visa (subclass 485). Your legal working status is a crucial foundation for any future you hope to build in Australia.
How to Verify a Legal Job Offer
Before starting work, ensure your employer is legally registered. Every business in Australia must hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN). You can check this via the official ABN Lookup website. Pay attention to the status (must be “Active”) and confirm the business name and address match the workplace offering you the job.
Unfortunately, not all registered businesses treat their workers fairly. To protect yourself, do some research before accepting an offer. Look up the employer on the Fair Work Ombudsman website for any history of violations, and browse reviews on Google, Reddit, or Glassdoor. If you see consistent complaints about underpayment, visa threats, or unsafe work conditions, it’s best to walk away — no job is worth risking your legal standing.
What Legal Employment Looks Like
A legitimate job in Australia comes with proper documentation. Your employer should provide a signed job offer or contract, regular payslips showing your hours, gross and net pay, tax deductions, and superannuation contributions if you are eligible. Payments should be made through bank transfer — while cash payments aren’t illegal by themselves, they become problematic if not accompanied by proper tax reporting and documentation.
Keep in mind that if your employer doesn’t issue payslips, withhold tax, or pay superannuation when required, the job is considered non-compliant. Working under these conditions can put your visa at risk, regardless of how much you’re paid.
Note on Superannuation:
As of July 2022, the Australian government removed the monthly threshold of AUD 450. Now, if you’re 18 or older (or under 18 but working more than 30 hours a week), your employer must pay superannuation contributions on your behalf, regardless of how much you earn. Always confirm with your employer and check your super balance regularly.
Know Your Rights & The Risks of Illegal Work
It’s essential to know that you’re entitled to the same workplace rights as any Australian employee. This includes a minimum hourly wage (currently AUD 23.23 as of July 2024, though it may be subject to annual review), penalty rates for weekend or holiday shifts, and the right to a safe working environment.
If something feels off — your pay is too low, you’re not getting payslips, or you’re pressured to work beyond your visa limits — speak up. You can report concerns confidentially to the Fair Work Ombudsman or the Department of Home Affairs. No employer has the right to threaten your visa or exploit your status.
Illegal employment isn’t always obvious. It can include working more hours than allowed, taking a cash job with no documentation, or working for an unregistered employer. Any of these scenarios can lead to serious consequences, including losing access to future work rights like the 485 visa, being excluded from applying for permanent residency, or even facing deportation.
Choosing the wrong job — even for a short time — can cost you years of progress toward your goals.
Build Your Future with Confidence
Understanding and following Australia’s employment laws doesn’t just help you stay compliant — it opens doors to meaningful, protected work experiences. Whether your aim is a post-study visa, permanent residency, or simply peace of mind, making informed employment choices is key.
If you’re unsure about your work conditions or need support:
- Visit the Fair Work Ombudsman
- Check your visa work limits on the Department of Home Affairs
Legal employment is your strongest asset — protect it, and your future in Australia will be that much more secure.
This article reflects information available as of April 2025. For the most up-to-date visa and work policies, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
