You can apply for permission to work up to 20 hours a week on a casual basis after you have started your course of study. You must also apply to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) to do volunteer or unpaid work which counts toward the 20 hours a week limit you are allowed under your visa.

For further information on working in Australia, visit DIACs website at www.immi.gov.au/students.

Getting permission to work

If you want to work part-time in Australia, you will need to obtain permission from DIAC in the state or territory where you are living. You should complete a form from DIAC (Form 157P) to request permission to work, and pay an application fee of about $60. DIAC will need to see your current student visa and evidence that you have commenced your course of study. This evidence can be in the form of a letter from your institution stating your course details (CRICOS code, start and end dates) or you can get an authorised officer from your education provider to complete the »education provider details« section of the form you complete (Form 157P).

If you are allowed to work, a new visa label will be put into your passport. It will have a work limitation condition (8105 or 8104), instead of the no work condition (8101). If you work more than 20 hours per week during the school semester, your visa may be cancelled.

Permission for spouses to work

Spouses with a Dependent Student Visa may apply for a work visa while accompanying a full time student. Spouses will need permission to work and must follow the conditions as set out on their visa, as restrictions may apply.

Types of work for international students

International students often find work in retail, hospitality and administration. You could expect to earn $6-15 an hour, depending on the kind of work you do and your age. You may be paid more for working on Sundays or public holidays.

Tutoring younger students in the field you are studying or in your native language is also a good way to earn money. Student tutors can earn about $40 an hour.

Remember that your first priority in Australia should be your studies. If you decide to take on the challenge of part-time work, start with a few hours a week until you are able to find a balance with your studies.

Tax returns

As an international student you may be affected by Australia’s taxation system.

You should obtain a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) if you are going to work in Australia. You may also need a TFN to open a bank account. To apply, complete a form available from the ATO website or an Australia Post office. If your visa allows you to work you can use the ATO’s online registration system. You will need to supply your name, current address and date of birth. You may also need to supply your date of arrival in Australia, current overseas passport (with current entry permit), and proof of enrolment, such as a student card or the Confirmation of Enrolment issued by your institution.

If you work in Australia you will need to lodge an income tax return, either through a registered tax agent or by completing it yourself. If you complete your own income tax return, e-tax is the fastest way to obtain a refund. In most cases this will be within 14 days. You can download e-tax from the ATO website.

For more information about tax file numbers and tax returns, phone the ATO on 13 2861, or visit www.ato.gov.au.

Superannuation

If you work in Australia as an international student, and are paid $450 or more in a calendar month, you may be entitled to superannuation. Your employer is usually required by law to pay money into a superannuation or retirement savings account for you. This legal requirement is called the Superannuation Guarantee. If you are eligible, you may be entitled to receive this money when you permanently leave Australia. This payment is called the Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP).