If you are interested only in working and participating in the working holiday visa program, then you should read the separate information on the Working Holiday Visa Program. This section of the web site concentrates only on the work arrangements for students going to Australia as international students and then planning also to work.

Australia

The AEC Program will provide up to date instructions on the visa process as you get through the various processes of your admission to the overseas university.

Students who are issued with a student visa will have automatic work rights as a part of their student visa. Your work rights have the following stipulation:

• You may not commence working until you have started your program at the university. (If you arrive early in Australia, do not plan on working until you have formally started your program of study.)
• You may work 20 hrs a week during school and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays and semester breaks.

Usually during orientation, the Australian or New Zealand university will touch on the subject of work as they are aware that often students do like to take up work as an opportunity to gain overseas experience. All universities usually have a Student Employment Office on campus.

Unlike some countries where "restrictive" work permits are provided (e.g. work only on campus or in low paying positions), there is no restriction on the type of work you undertake as long as you meet the requirements of the job. You may apply for any advertised job except those that have a stipulation for Australian citizens. You are not restricted to work only on campus.

Many students benefit from working in their field of study for a limited period of time in order to return to their home countries with not just an Australian qualification or semester/year abroad of study but also some international work experience! Employment can be sought through the local newspapers in Australia, your Australian university newspaper, notices on student bulletin boards, visits to local employment agencies and applying directly to organizations that you might have an interest in. You should also visit the Student Union and the Student Employment Office

While many students do work part time or take up seasonal/holiday work while in Australia, it is important that you do not depend on work in order to meet your living or other costs in Australia.