Work Right Responsibilities in Australia: What Every Student Should Know

Australia is a popular destination for international students, not just because of its world-class education system, but also because it offers the opportunity to gain part-time work experience while studying. This work experience can help students earn extra income, develop skills, and adapt to the Australian way of life.

However, working in Australia comes with a set of legal responsibilities and rights—for both employers and employees. Understanding these is essential to ensuring students are treated fairly and are working within the law.

I am writing this post to help students, parents, and universities get a clearer picture of how the employment system works in Australia. 

Employer Responsibilities: What Students Should Expect

Employers in Australia are required by law to follow a range of workplace regulations that protect the rights of workers, including international students. If you are working while studying, your employer must meet the following obligations:

1. Payslips Must Be Provided

In Australia, employers must provide a payslip within one working day of paying their employee. This applies whether you are paid weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.

A payslip is more than just a receipt—it is a legal record that shows:

• Your total earnings

• Tax withheld from your wages

• Superannuation contributions

• Hours worked and pay rate

Keeping your payslips is important. They can help you check if you are being paid correctly, and they may be required if you ever need to report a workplace issue.

2. Superannuation Contributions

Superannuation, or “super,” is a retirement savings system in Australia. Although international students are not permanent residents, employers are still required to make super contributions if the work meets certain eligibility criteria.

Once your time in Australia ends and your visa expires, you may be able to apply to receive your superannuation funds through the Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) scheme.

3. Workers’ Compensation

Australian law requires all employers to hold insurance for workers’ compensation. This insurance provides support to workers if they are injured or become ill due to their work. If an accident occurs at the workplace, workers’ compensation may cover:

• Medical expenses

• Loss of income while you recover

No matter the type of job—whether you are working in hospitality, retail, or an office—this protection must be in place.

Employee Responsibilities: What Students Must Follow

Just as employers have legal obligations, international students working in Australia also have certain responsibilities:

1. Apply for a Tax File Number 

Before starting work, students must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) through the Australian Taxation Office and provide it to their employer. This ensures that the correct amount of tax is deducted from your wages.

2. Follow Visa Work Limitations

Students on a student visa are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and semesters. It is essential to monitor your hours carefully, as working more than the permitted limit can result in visa complications or cancellations.

3. Follow Health and Safety Instructions

Employers are required to maintain a safe working environment, but workers also share responsibility for their own safety. Students must follow all reasonable health and safety directions, such as wearing protective equipment when required or completing safety training sessions.

Your Rights as a Worker in Australia

International students have the same basic workplace rights as any other worker in Australia. Knowing these rights helps students speak up if something goes wrong and ensures they are not taken advantage of.

1. Right to Minimum Wage

There is a legal minimum wage in Australia, and it is reviewed annually. The exact amount you are entitled to depends on your industry, job role, and experience level.

If you are being paid less than the minimum wage, it is your right to raise the issue. Reporting underpayment will not place your visa in jeopardy, and it can be done confidentially through the Fair Work Ombudsman.

2. Right to a Safe Workplace

All workers in Australia, including students, have the right to a workplace that is free from health risks and hazards. Employers must:

• Provide safety training and procedures

• Maintain clean and functional facilities (such as bathrooms and break areas)

• Ensure that equipment and processes are safe to use

3. Freedom from Discrimination

Discrimination in the workplace based on factors such as race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, or disability is strictly prohibited. Every worker has the right to be treated with dignity and respect.

4. Freedom from Bullying and Harassment

Workplace bullying and harassment are taken seriously in Australia. These include:

• Bullying: Repeated, unreasonable behaviour that causes stress or harm.

• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual comments, advances, or requests.

If students experience bullying or harassment, they are encouraged to speak to their university’s support services or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.

5. Protection from Unfair Dismissal

If a student is fired from their job in a way that is harsh, unreasonable, or unjust, they may have the right to lodge a complaint. This is called unfair dismissal.

To take action, students must file a claim with the Fair Work Commission within 21 days of being dismissed.

A Shared Responsibility: Students, Parents, and Universities

The responsibility to protect student workers doesn’t rest on one party alone. It is a shared effort:

• Students must educate themselves about their rights and obligations and speak up when something doesn’t seem right.

• Parents should encourage their children to ask questions and reach out for help when needed.

• Universities should ensure that students have access to clear information, orientation sessions, and support services regarding work rights.

To learn more about your rights, responsibilities, and how to seek help, visit the official Fair Work Ombudsman website. It provides tools to check pay rates, submit complaints, and access support in multiple languages.

The Bottom Line

Working in Australia can be a meaningful part of your student journey. It builds skills, promotes independence, and can ease financial pressure. But every job, no matter how big or small, must follow the law.

When international students are informed and empowered, they are more likely to have positive and safe work experiences. And when parents and universities are involved, the entire student community benefits.

Need help understanding student work rights or visa responsibilities? DM me for guidance. We’re here to support you.