A part-time job helps with living costs and is a great way to build local experience and confidence. Here's how to find work and stay on the right side of your visa while you study.
Know your visa work rights
Student visa holders can work a limited number of hours during study periods and more during scheduled breaks. The cap can change, so always confirm the current limit on the Department of Home Affairs website before you accept a job. Working beyond your limit can put your visa at risk.
Sort out the basics first
Before your first shift you'll usually need:
- A Tax File Number (TFN) — see our guide on how to get a TFN.
- An Australian bank account for your pay — see how to open a bank account.
- Your superannuation details (your employer will help set this up).
Where to look
- Job boards. Seek, Indeed and Jora list casual and part-time roles.
- In person. Hospitality and retail often hire by resume drop-off — take printed copies to cafes, restaurants and shops in your area.
- Your university. Campus job boards and careers services list on-campus work and student-friendly employers.
- Community networks. Nepali community groups and student associations often share casual work, cleaning, kitchen and warehouse shifts.
Common student jobs
Hospitality (cafes, restaurants, kitchens), retail, supermarkets, cleaning, aged care and warehouse or delivery work are all common first jobs. Many need no prior experience — a willingness to learn and reliability matter most.
Know your pay rights
Australia has a legal minimum wage, and casual workers earn a higher hourly rate (casual loading) plus penalty rates for evenings, weekends and public holidays.
- You should be paid into a bank account with a payslip — be cautious of cash-only jobs that pay below the minimum wage.
- Check current pay rates for your role with the Fair Work Ombudsman.
- If something feels wrong, Fair Work can help — you have the same workplace rights as any other worker, regardless of your visa.
Write a simple, local resume
Keep your resume to one or two pages: contact details, a short summary, any work or volunteer experience, and references. List your availability clearly, and tailor it slightly for each type of role.
Apply widely and follow up in person a few days later. Persistence and a friendly first impression land more first jobs than a perfect resume.