Australia has one of the highest minimum wages in the world. This guide explains your work rights, the best-paying student jobs, and how to balance your wallet with your studies.
You are capped at 48 hours per fortnight.
(A fortnight is a 14-day period starting on a Monday).
Unlimited hours! When your course is officially "out of session" (summer/winter holidays), you can work full-time.
As of mid-2025, the National Minimum Wage is approx $24.10/hour. However, most students work as "Casuals," which pays more.
Because casual jobs don't offer sick leave, employers must pay you an extra 25%.
Your Minimum Rate ≈ $30.13 per hour.
| Role | Est. Pay (Casual) | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Barista / Waiter | $30 - $35 / hr | RSA Certificate (if serving alcohol) |
| Retail Assistant | $30 - $34 / hr | Good communication skills |
| Aged Care / Support | $35 - $40+ / hr | Cert III in Individual Support |
| Delivery (UberEats) | Pay per delivery | Bicycle or E-Bike |
Mandatory. If you work without one, you will be taxed at ~47%. Apply for free via the ATO website.
Unique Student Identifier. You need this number to complete any training (like RSA or White Card).
Australian employers usually pay directly into a local bank account (Commonwealth, ANZ, NAB, etc.).
Some employers may offer to pay you cash below minimum wage to avoid tax. This is illegal. It leaves you without insurance if you get injured at work. Always insist on a payslip.
Australian employers prefer a specific 1-page resume format. Don't use your academic CV. Let us help you draft a "Job-Ready" resume.