Best Part-time Jobs in Australia for International Students

Studying in Australia is a costly investment. Australia is one of the top study destinations for international students, with over 500,000 arriving annually to pursue their education. While tuition and living costs can be high, the good part is that there are plenty of easy part-time jobs you can take to ease some of the financial burdens. As an international student, a part-time job will give you income while studying. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to hone your skills, both personal and professional.

Finding the best part-time job in Australia is easy if you follow the conditions of your Australian student visa. You must also engage in work that won’t clash with your class schedule. The good news is, part-time jobs for students are easy to apply for and do. With that in mind, let’s discuss how to find part-time jobs in Australia their average pay, and the benefits they offer. We’ll also explain how to find part-time jobs and manage work with your studies.

 

Why part-time jobs are popular among international students

For international students, working part-time isn’t just about earning money. It’s also an opportunity to gain valuable experience, meet new people, and integrate into Australian culture.

Some key reasons why students seek part-time jobs in Australia include:

• • Financial support: Cover tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses.
  • Work experience: Build skills and add local experience to your resume.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with locals and professionals.
  • Flexibility: Most part-time jobs allow students to balance work and study schedules.

Best part-time jobs in Australia. Here are some of the best part-time jobs in Australia for students, considering pay rates, flexibility, and demand:

1. Retail Assistant

Retail jobs are widely available across Australia, especially in cities like Melbourne and Sydney. Duties include assisting customers, managing inventory, and handling sales.

• • • Average pay: AUD 20–25 per hour
    • Benefits: Flexible shifts, discounts on store products

2. Waitstaff or Barista

The hospitality industry offers some of the most popular part-time jobs in Australia for international students. Waiting tables at cafes and restaurants may not be your ideal part-time job. But it’s a job where your best reward is large tips and satisfied customers.

You can apply as a waiter or waitress in virtually any place that serves food. To narrow down your search, you can apply at cafes within the university campus.

• • • Average pay: AUD 18–30 per hour (higher with tips)
    • Benefits: Free meals, opportunities to socialize

3. Tutor

If you excel in a particular subject, tutoring is a great way to earn money. You can tutor school students or even other university students in subjects like math, science, or languages.

• • • Average pay: AUD 30–60 per hour
    • Benefits: Work-from-home opportunities, flexible scheduling

4. Delivery Driver or Rider

With the rise of delivery apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Deliveroo, becoming a delivery driver is a popular choice. All you need is a bike, scooter, or car to start earning.

• • • Average pay: AUD 20–25 per hour (plus bonuses)
    • Benefits: Flexible hours, tips, and incentive

5. Customer Service Assistant

Do you have a knack for persuading people to buy things? You can be a part-time salesperson. Getting into sales can be time-demanding yet fulfilling work. If you exceed the sales quota, you can get lucrative commissions at work.

Sales assistants are an important part of customer service. A sales assistant must also relay features and use of certain products to buyers. If you think you can juggle duties like these, consider being a part-time sales assistant.

• • • Average pay: AUD 22–28 per hour
    • Benefits: Office-based or remote options

6. Cleaner

A housekeeper’s job is to maintain the order and cleanliness of a place. They can work in hotels, homestays, boutiques, or private residences. In exchange for their service, they receive wages and free lodging.

A housekeeping job is ideal to take during long breaks and not as a week job. You can apply as a housekeeper after the end of your semester or on your summer break.

• • • Average pay: AUD 20–30 per hour
    • Benefits: Independent work, evening shifts

7. Supermarket Staff

Working in supermarkets as a cashier or stock replenisher is a reliable job for students. Popular chains like Woolworths and Coles often hire part-time staff. If you have a penchant for communication, then this part-time job is for you. A supermarket representative role uses a mix of technical and personal skills. It’s also a kind of job where you can practice your conversational skills.

• • • Average pay: AUD 20–25 per hour
    • Benefits: Employee discounts, steady hours

8. Event Staff

From concerts to sports matches, event staff jobs are fun and flexible. Roles include ticketing, ushering, and event setup.

• • • Average pay: AUD 25–35 per hour
    • Benefits: Opportunity to attend events, flexible hours

9. Freelance work

If you have skills in writing, graphic design, coding, or social media, freelancing can be a lucrative option. You can work for clients globally and set your own rates.

• • • Average pay: AUD 20–50 per hour (depending on skill level)
    • Benefits: Remote work, control over workload

10. Warehouse Staff

Many warehouses hire part-time staff for roles like packing, sorting, and shipping. This job often requires physical strength and attention to detail.

• • • Average pay: AUD 22–28 per hour
    • Benefits: Steady shifts, minimal experience needed

How to find part-time jobs in Australia

Finding part-time jobs in Australia is easier than you think. Here are some effective ways to search for opportunities:

• • 1. Online job portals: Websites like Seek, Indeed, and Gumtree list thousands of part-time jobs for students.
    2. University career services: Many universities have job boards or career centers to help students find part-time work.
    3. Networking: Build connections through friends, professors, or classmates. Often, jobs are filled through word-of-mouth.
    4. Walk-ins: Visit local cafes, restaurants, or retail stores to inquire about job openings.

 

Part-time job pay in Australia

Australia has one of the highest minimum wages globally, making it an attractive destination for students. The minimum wage for part-time jobs in Australia is AUD 21.38 per hour as of 2023. However, wages can vary depending on the role, location, and industry.

Job	Average Pay (AUD/hour)
Retail assistant	20–25
Waitstaff/barista	18–30
Tutor	30–60
Delivery driver/rider	20–25
Customer service assistant	22–28
Cleaner	20–30
Supermarket staff	20–25
Event staff	25–35
Freelancer	20–50
Warehouse staff	22–28

Disclaimer: The salaries mentioned here serve as a point of reference. The actual amount will depend on the individual’s skill set and credentials.

Minimum wage and benefits

Australia’s minimum wage ensures that all workers, including students, earn a fair amount for their time. Here’s why working part-time in Australia is beneficial:

• • • Consistent pay: With a regulated minimum wage, you’re guaranteed fair compensation.
    • Flexible hours: Many part-time jobs allow you to work weekends or evenings to avoid clashing with your classes.
    • Work rights: As an international student, you’re legally entitled to part-time work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester.

Tips to balance work and study

Balancing a part-time job with your studies can be challenging. Here are some tips to manage both effectively:

• • • Set priorities: Make your education your top priority and choose a job that fits your schedule.
    • Create a routine: Plan your work hours around your classes and study time.
    • Communicate: Inform your employer about your availability to avoid conflicts during exams.
    • Take breaks: Don’t overwork yourself—make time for relaxation and self-care.

 

Which are the sectors for highest-paying jobs in Australia 

 

Conclusion

The best part-time jobs in Australia offer a perfect blend of flexibility, fair pay, and opportunities for skill development. From retail and hospitality to tutoring and freelancing, there’s no shortage of options for students looking to work while studying in Australia. These jobs not only help ease financial burdens but also offer valuable work experience and a chance to connect with the local community.

Whether you’re studying in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, or any other city, the opportunities for part-time work are abundant. By choosing a role that aligns with your schedule and interests, you can strike a balance between work and academics.

Remember, finding the right job requires research, preparation, and effort. Use job portals, tap into university resources, and network with peers to explore all available options. With Australia’s high minimum wage and student-friendly work policies, taking up a part-time job can be a rewarding experience in more ways than one.

So, start your search today, and make the most of your time as a student in Australia. It’s not just about earning money—it’s about gaining experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime!

 

FAQs about part-time jobs in Australia

1. What are the best part-time jobs in Australia for students?

Jobs like a retail assistant, waitstaff, tutor, and delivery driver are popular among students for their flexibility and decent pay.

2. How much do part-time jobs pay in Australia?

Part-time jobs in Australia pay an average of AUD 20–30 per hour, depending on the role and industry.

3. Can international students work part-time in Australia?

Yes, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks.

4. What is the minimum wage for part-time jobs in Australia?

The minimum wage for part-time jobs is AUD 21.38 per hour as of 2023.

5. Are there part-time jobs available in Melbourne for students?

Yes, Melbourne offers numerous part-time opportunities in retail, hospitality, tutoring, and delivery services.

6. How do I find part-time jobs in Australia?

Use online job portals, university career services, and networking to search for job opportunities.

7. What are the benefits of working part-time in Australia?

Part-time jobs help students earn money, gain experience, and build connections while maintaining flexible schedules.

8. Can I manage my studies and a part-time job?

Yes, by setting priorities, creating a routine, and communicating with your employer, you can balance work and studies.

9. What are the popular part-time jobs in Adelaide?

In Adelaide, retail, hospitality, and event staffing are common part-time jobs for students.

10. Are part-time jobs in Australia worth it for international students?

Absolutely! They provide financial support, work experience, and a chance to integrate into Australian culture.