How to Make Those Extra Bucks as an International Student in Australia

Anthony Bourdain once said, and we quote, “If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean or simply across the river. Walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food. It’s a plus for everybody”. The quote perfectly captures the adventures associated with moving abroad, don’t you think?

It is a very big decision capable of altering the life path. But at the same time, it is filled with new experiences.

As a student, confusion about which decision is right and which is wrong is understandable. You may be thinking of all the new things you'll have to do, such as cleaning the restroom for the first time or doing your laundry. Living away from mom can be hard; we understand! No matter how scary that might seem, it’s amazing to be independent. The bad news is you’re on your own, but the good news is you are on your own! You get to experience so many firsts! First solo walk to the park, eating alone, visiting a museum on your own and first time doing part-time work. Yes, you heard it right, part-time. It is one of the best possible ways to make those extra bucks to support your lifestyle in Australia. 

While we understand that coming from countries deeply rooted in class and standards, it might be difficult to take up these roles. However, you must understand that there is no work in the world that is petty. Everyone works every kind of job role in international countries and is equally respected. We encounter fresh ideas and ways of thinking when we leave our comfort zones and travel to strange places. That conflict forces us to develop both mentally and emotionally. The world desperately needs more global citizens who are open-minded while nationalism is on the rise. Many organisations recognise that students can multitask while delivering great results. Isn’t that good news now?

Well, juggling school and work can be taxing. Figuring out which jobs to look for in a foreign country is difficult, but we've got you! Australia's growing economy and vibrant labour market provide opportunities for university and college students seeking valuable job experience or additional income.

By now, you must be thinking, that okay enough with the pep-talk! Quickly tell me how many hours I can work and what kind of jobs exactly. You are only permitted to work 40 hours per two weeks on an Australian student visa. Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week with an Australia minimum wage rate of AUD 21 hourly. Students can get around 2000 AUD per month. Monday through Sunday are regarded as working days. Splitting up the time doesn't matter; you might spend more time in one week while taking it easy. You must not go beyond this boundary. Wait until your vacation period.

The Australian government also constantly encourages international students to work while studying to support themselves and feel at home. All students, new student arrivals, and secondary applicants are permitted to work more than 40 hours per week in any economic sector until June 30, 2023. But, the maximum number of hours a student visa holder can work will be regulated after 30 June 2023.

Now that we are done with the facts and figures let us look at the jobs, shall we? While growing up, you must have had that one thing you loved doing but everybody else considered a waste. Why do we hear you say watching after kids, tutoring, making that perfect cup of coffee, and learning a foreign language? What if we told you you could earn money doing these things only? You can easily find part-time jobs in Australia at cafes, restaurants and hotels. You can make that coffee you loved growing up and let others enjoy it. You can also find work tutoring starting from kids to university-attending students. Also, there are many languages spoken in Australia. Yes, this is the time to earn money from your Italian or Greek skills.

Well, if you have the skills, it is a cakewalk to secure the most high-paying work. Australia minimum salary per hour ranges between 20 AUD - 45 AUD. Work in the retail sector is one of the most high-paying part-time work opportunities. It can go up to 33 AUD per hour. Tutoring also pays up to 40 AUD. Other high-paying jobs include hospitality (cafes, bars, hotels, restaurants, delivery), farming and fruit-picking (mostly in the spring season), services (aged care and cleaning), babysitting, clerical work and administration. Apart from working these off-campus jobs, you can also work on campus. You can work as a libertarian, teaching assistant, or in the campus shops without any time limit. The hours you work each week depend on your faculty. Amazing, right?

But it is not like you only earn money while working different jobs. We, as humans, thrive on interpersonal connections. You get to have many conversations with different people daily. Some end up becoming friends too. The American author Frances Mayes quotes, “Splendid to arrive alone in a foreign country and feel the assault of difference. Here they are all along, busy with living; they don’t talk or look like me. The rhythm of their day is entirely different; I am foreign”. Doesn’t this sum up the loneliness one feels in a foreign country? But these part-time jobs can help you with that. Imagine working as a barista and conversing with a regular customer over how chilly the weather is or how cute your scarf looks. We are sure that’s enough to put you in a good mood for the whole day. Excited much?

But you should just focus on work and earning money. Remember, you went there to get that degree you always wanted. You must continue to balance your work commitments and studies, even though there is flexibility in the number of hours you can work.

Working while pursuing an education is beneficial to get relevant experience in your intended area and supplement your income. Even with the abundance of employment accessible to students, finding the time to combine both might be difficult. To be successful in this quest, it is important to set a timetable in which studying and working do not clash, as well as to maintain proper sleep habits. Regular breaks and taking time to celebrate your accomplishments are also vital for retaining motivation.

Navigating through all this might be difficult at first. But hang in there! Do what makes your soul happy and satisfied. Do not let societal norms define you. Go out, and try different types of work. Nobody there knows you. There is no such thing as a meagre job. Just be open to new opportunities and learn all that you can!

If you wish to study in Australia and have questions about part-time jobs, our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultant (MOEC) will provide the best guidance and support for your process. You can also opt for our free online counselling through our website. Contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.