Australia remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international students. High-quality education, a stable economy, and clear pathways to work and potential long-term residence make it attractive. In 2026, several key updates to student visa work hours, income expectations, and insurance requirements are shaping how students plan their study and work arrangements.
Understanding these updates is essential for anyone considering study in Australia under a student visa. The rules govern not just how many hours you can work but also what you can earn legally, how health insurance applies, and what expectations employers have.
Work Hour Regulations for Student Visa Holders
Under Australia’s student visa conditions, students are permitted to work part-time during their course term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Those basic rules remain, but there have been important refinements.
Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time. This means hours are counted over two-week periods. Work beyond the 48-hour limit during term time can result in visa compliance issues.
During scheduled course breaks, such as semester holidays, students are allowed to work unlimited hours. This flexibility is designed to let you earn more when academic commitments are minimal.
Visa conditions also require that employment does not interfere with course attendance and progress. Work must be balanced with study commitments, and visa holders should maintain lawful status by adhering to reporting and attendance obligations.
Income Expectations for Student Workers
In 2026, many student visa holders are earning between AUD 22 and AUD 28 per hour, depending on industry and experience. Hospitality, retail, customer support, and entry-level trade roles commonly fall within this range.
Higher hourly rates around AUD 28 or more are typically offered for roles that require specific skills, language ability, or evening and weekend work. Employers legally must pay students at least the minimum award wage for the role.
Because students are limited to part-time work during study periods, monthly earnings vary based on hours worked. If a student works the full allowable 48 hours per fortnight at AUD 25 per hour, gross monthly earnings can exceed AUD 2,000 before taxes.
Tax obligations still apply. Students must obtain a Tax File Number and declare income accurately. Depending on income level and tax status, tax rates and refund opportunities may vary.
Compulsory Health Insurance for International Students
All international student visa holders are required to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their student visa. This requirement protects students against high medical costs while in Australia.
OSHC must be arranged before the visa is granted and remain valid throughout the visa period. It covers doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency treatment, prescription medicines, and some specialist services.
While coverage varies by provider and plan, OSHC ensures you are not financially exposed to major medical expenses. Some plans also include limited extras such as optical or dental care for basic services.
Employers are not responsible for student health insurance, but many courses and visa applications require evidence of valid OSHC before enrolment.
Coordination Between Work and Study
Balancing work hours and academic requirements is crucial. Employers hiring student visa holders must understand the work limits and cannot exploit students by assigning hours beyond what the visa allows during term time.
Students should keep careful records of hours worked, payslips, and course schedules to demonstrate compliance if requested by immigration authorities.
Workplace rights are protected under Australian law. Students are entitled to minimum wage, penalty rates, rest breaks, and safe working conditions regardless of visa status.
Reporting and Compliance Requirements
Maintaining lawful visa status requires compliance beyond work hours.
Students must maintain full-time enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and academic progress. Significant changes in course, location, or attendance must be updated with immigration authorities.
If working in Australia, students must provide correct tax information and ensure employers withhold appropriate tax amounts. Superannuation contributions may apply for some workers, though accessibility varies by age and income level.
Staying compliant with visa conditions ensures smooth continuation of study and work privileges throughout the visa period.
Employer Expectations and Wage Laws
Australian employers hiring student visa holders must follow national wage laws and award conditions. This includes paying the correct wage rate for the job and award penalties for weekends, nights, or public holidays where applicable.
Students have the same workplace protections as other workers. They can access Fair Work Ombudsman resources and support if wage disputes or workplace issues arise.
Employers cannot legally pressure students into illegal overtime or undocumented pay arrangements.
Access to Support Services
Most universities and vocational education providers offer dedicated student support services for work-related guidance. This includes help with resume writing, interview practice, understanding awards, and navigating workplace questions.
Many institutions run job fairs, employer information sessions, and work readiness programs to help students find compliant paid work.
Insurance Benefits Beyond Health Cover
While OSHC is mandatory, students can also choose supplementary travel insurance or private health plans for additional coverage not included under OSHC.
Student unions or associations often offer advice on cost-effective insurance add-ons for gadgets, travel disruption, or personal liability.
Students should review policy details carefully to understand which services are covered and what out-of-pocket costs may apply.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Working more than 48 hours per fortnight during term time is a frequent issue. Even paid work during exams is subject to the same limits.
Failing to maintain valid OSHC for the entire visa duration can lead to visa cancellation.
Not declaring income correctly or misunderstanding tax obligations can result in unexpected liabilities.
Accepting under-the-table or cash-only work may lead to compliance risks and loss of legal protections.
Practical Tips for Student Workers
Keep an organised record of work hours and course schedules.
Seek employers with experience hiring international students.
Clarify pay rates and expected hours before accepting work.
Use campus employment services to find lawful and well-matched opportunities.
Renew health insurance well before expiry to avoid gaps in coverage.
Long-Term Considerations
Work experience gained while studying often leads to stronger employment prospects after graduation. Many students transition into skilled or professional roles and may explore post-study work visas.
Understanding work rights and responsibilities now builds a foundation for future employment growth in Australia.
Conclusion
Australia’s student visa work, income, and insurance rules in 2026 provide a structured and lawful environment for international students to balance study with part-time work. With clear limits, predictable pay ranges, and mandatory health coverage, student workers can gain valuable experience while maintaining compliance.
Awareness of work hours, wages, insurance requirements, and reporting obligations ensures a smooth and lawful stay in Australia while building both academic and professional skills.