Working in Australia

International students on student visas in Australia are eligible to work provided they have a valid work permit. Applications for work permits must be made using the Department of Immigration, Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA) Form 157P or you can apply online using the DIAC website .

Students are allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during semester and unlimited hours during holidays and breaks.

Student work permits cost approximately $60 and payment is made directly to DIMIA. Processing usually takes between one and three weeks.

You must have studied at least three weeks before the Student Administration Office will sign your application for the work permit. Continuing students can apply at any time.

In addition to the work permit, students should apply for an Australian Tax File Number. If you do not have a TFN, you will be charged the maximum tax rate (48.5%) by any employer that you work for. Tax File Number information and applications are available from the Australian Tax Office website .

Further information about jobs and employment is available from the DIAC website  and the Student Life Office, Sydney Campus (bmckeon@nd.edu.au).