Australia remains one of the most practical study destinations for international students who want more than just a degree. Beyond globally recognised education, the country offers legal part-time work rights, transparent wages, and mandatory health insurance that protects students while they study and work.
Many students now earn around AUD 24 per hour through part-time jobs that comply with Australian labour laws. This income helps cover living costs, reduces financial pressure, and provides valuable local work experience. When combined with student health insurance, the study-and-work pathway in Australia offers a balanced and realistic approach to international education.
Why Australia Allows Students to Work While Studying
Australia’s student visa system is designed to support self-sufficiency without compromising academic focus. The government recognises that international students face high living costs and need legal ways to earn income.
Part-time work rights are built into the student visa framework. These rights allow students to support daily expenses, gain workplace skills, and integrate into Australian society, all under regulated conditions.
Unlike informal work markets, Australia enforces minimum wage laws, payslip requirements, and workplace protections that apply equally to students and local workers.
How AUD 24 Per Hour Is Realistic for Students
AUD 24 per hour aligns closely with Australia’s regulated minimum and award wages, especially in sectors that rely heavily on student labour.
While base rates may start slightly lower for some roles, penalty rates for evenings, weekends, public holidays, and casual loading often push hourly earnings to AUD 24 or higher.
Students who are flexible with shifts and willing to work during busy periods regularly reach or exceed this rate.
Common Student Jobs Paying Around AUD 24/Hour
Several part-time jobs consistently offer this income level.
Hospitality roles such as waitstaff, bar staff, café assistants, and kitchen hands often reach AUD 24 per hour when penalty rates apply. Hotels and restaurants operating late hours or weekends pay higher rates.
Retail jobs in supermarkets, convenience stores, and shopping centres offer strong hourly pay, particularly for evening and weekend shifts.
Aged care and disability support roles pay well due to staff shortages. Students with basic training or care experience often earn above standard student job rates.
Cleaning and housekeeping roles in hotels, offices, and short-stay accommodation regularly reach this level, especially for early morning or late-night shifts.
Logistics and warehouse support roles also provide strong hourly pay, particularly during peak seasons.
On-campus jobs such as library assistants, admin support, and student services roles offer stable income with predictable schedules.
Work Hour Limits for International Students
Student work rights are regulated to ensure education remains the priority.
During academic sessions, students are allowed to work a limited number of hours per week. During official study breaks, full-time work is permitted.
Employers are required to respect these limits. Students must also track their hours carefully, as exceeding allowed limits can affect visa status.
Balancing work and study is essential. Consistent academic progress is required to maintain the student visa.
Health Insurance Requirements for Students
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in Australia. It is a legal requirement tied directly to the student visa.
Students must hold approved health insurance that covers medical treatment, hospital care, and emergency services from the day they arrive until their visa expires.
This insurance protects students from high medical costs and ensures access to healthcare while studying and working.
Some employers also require proof of insurance before hiring students, especially in sectors involving physical work or customer interaction.
What Student Health Insurance Covers
Student health insurance typically covers doctor visits, hospital treatment, emergency care, and some prescription medications.
It may also include limited mental health support and basic diagnostic services.
While insurance does not cover every medical service, it significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses and provides essential protection.
Maintaining continuous coverage is critical. Gaps in insurance can affect visa compliance.
Monthly Income Expectations From Part-Time Work
At AUD 24 per hour, a student working the maximum allowed hours during study periods can earn a meaningful monthly income.
This income usually helps with rent, food, transport, and utilities. During study breaks, full-time work allows students to save more or cover larger expenses such as tuition instalments.
However, part-time work is intended as support, not a replacement for financial proof. Students must still show sufficient funds when applying for or renewing their visa.
Tax and Payslip Rules for Student Workers
Students working in Australia must register for a tax file number. Employers are required to issue payslips showing hours worked, gross pay, tax deductions, and net pay.
Students may pay tax depending on income level, but many can claim refunds at the end of the financial year.
Understanding payslips and tax obligations helps students avoid underpayment and compliance issues.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Working more hours than allowed is one of the most serious mistakes and can lead to visa problems.
Accepting cash-in-hand jobs without payslips exposes students to underpayment and legal risk.
Failing to maintain valid health insurance can affect visa status.
Overworking at the expense of studies may lead to academic failure, which directly impacts residence rights.
Practical Tips to Earn More as a Student
Choose jobs that offer penalty rates for evenings and weekends.
Be flexible with availability, especially during peak periods.
Understand award wages and your rights before accepting a job.
Keep records of hours worked, payslips, and insurance documents.
Balance work hours carefully to protect academic performance.
Long-Term Benefits of Working While Studying
Part-time work provides more than income.
Students gain Australian work experience, local references, and workplace skills that improve employability after graduation.
Some students transition into full-time roles or employer-sponsored pathways once eligible.
Work experience gained legally during study strengthens future visa and residence applications.
Conclusion
Studying in Australia while working part-time at around AUD 24 per hour with health insurance is a realistic and lawful pathway for international students. With regulated wages, mandatory insurance, and strong worker protections, Australia offers a balanced system that supports both education and financial stability.
For students who plan carefully, respect visa conditions, and focus on long-term goals, the study-and-work pathway in Australia provides education, income, and future opportunities under one of the world’s most transparent systems.