Working in Australia

Studying at ELSIS is more than just a classroom experience. Many students gain a lot of useful experience outside the school during their time in Sydney. This can be in the form of organised social activities, informal socialising with your new international friends, or working. If you are on a Student Visa you can legally work 40 hours in a fortnight (2 weeks).

A few things to remember:

  • English is not your first language, so you must be realistic about the kinds of jobs you can expect to get.
  • Do not expect to earn a big salary! $12 – $25 an hour is typical.
  • If you are on a Student Visa you can only legally work 40 hours per fortnight.
  • If you are on a Working Holiday visa you can work full-time.
  • If you are on a Working Holiday visa you can work for one employer for up to 6 months.
  • The less English you have the less choice you will have in jobs.

Typical jobs that you can find:

  • Waiter/waitress in restaurants
  • Coffee maker/assistant in cafes
  • Hotel work/cleaning
  • Night work in supermarkets
  • Kitchen work in restaurants
  • Farm work
  • Au pair work with Australian families
  • Office administration

For more information on work conditions and taxation laws, please visit the Australian Taxation Office website.

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