Work
Many university students need to work part-time work to support themselves while studying. Before looking for a job, think about how to balance studying and working hours. Full-time students should consider working no more than 8 to 10 hours per week.
International students
If you're on an international student visa, you'll need to check the conditions for when and how many hours you can work while studying in Australia. See working on a student visa.
Domestic students
If you need to work more hours, consider reducing your study workload. Before changing your enrolment, see our study load page.
Finding work
Visit our careers site for information on how to build your network, find a job, and get ready for the workforce.
Legitimate work arrangements
Students may be offered a job where they are paid cash and the employer does not deduct tax. This is illegal and may not be in your best interests. For example:
- it may be more difficult to get compensation if you are injured at work
- you may miss out on employer contributions to superannuation.
To learn more about your rights (and how to protect them), see our work rights and responsibilities page.
Taxation
If your only source of income is government assistance, you may not need to lodge a return. If you are working, you may need to lodge a tax return for income received during an Australian financial year (which ends on 30 June).
If you are working and receiving government assistance, ensure that either Centrelink or the employer deduct the appropriate amount of tax. Otherwise you may be required to pay extra tax at the end of the financial year.