If you are an international or Indian student in Australia, the pay rules apply to you the same way they apply to locals. Your visa does not reduce your wage. Many students still get underpaid because they do not know the rules or accept cash jobs.
This guide explains the Minimum Wage in Australia for International and Indian Students, student work limits, and what you should realistically earn in common student jobs.
Table of Contents
What is the minimum wage in Australia for international students?
International students are entitled to the same minimum wage as Australian workers. There is no separate student rate.
As of July 2025, the national minimum wage is about AUD 24.95 per hour before tax. This applies only if you are not covered by an award.
Most student jobs are award-based. Hospitality, retail, cleaning, and warehouse roles usually pay more than the national minimum.
Wages are set and reviewed by the Fair Work Commission. Employers must follow these rates by law.
Common student jobs and real hourly pay
Most international students work casual or part-time roles. Casual jobs pay extra because you do not get paid leave.
Typical hourly pay you should expect:
- Cafes and restaurants: AUD 25 to 30 per hour
- Retail and supermarkets: AUD 25 to 29 per hour
- Cleaning and housekeeping: AUD 26 to 32 per hour
- Warehouses: AUD 28 to 35 per hour
- Weekend or late-night shifts: higher due to penalty rates
If someone offers AUD 10-15 per hour, it is illegal in most cases.
Student visa work hours you must follow
If you are on a Student Visa (Subclass 500), work limits are strict.
During study periods, you can work 48 hours per fortnight. That is an average of 24 hours per week.
During semester breaks, you can work unlimited hours.
Exceeding these limits can lead to visa cancellation. It does not matter if your employer asks you to work more.
Casual jobs, payslips, and superannuation
Most students work casual roles. Casual workers receive a 25 percent loading on top of the base rate.
You must receive:
- A payslip within one working day of being paid
- Superannuation payments into your super account
- Penalty rates if you work weekends or public holidays
Cash jobs without payslips are risky. If there is a dispute, you have no proof.
Common wage scams targeting international students
Many underpayments happen because students fear losing their jobs or visas.
Watch out for these signs:
- Being told that student wages are lower
- Unpaid trial shifts
- Cash-only payments every week
- No payslips or super
- Being asked to work more than the allowed hours
All of these are red flags.
What to do if you are underpaid
You are protected under Australian workplace law, even as a temporary visa holder.
Steps you can take:
- Check your award rate on Fair Work
- Keep payslips, messages, and bank records
- Talk to your employer first if it feels safe
- Contact Fair Work Ombudsman for free help
Reporting underpayment does not automatically affect your visa.
FAQs
Do international students get paid less than Australians in Australia?
No. International and Indian students must be paid the same minimum wage as Australians for the same work.
Can I work full-time on a student visa in Australia?
Only during official semester breaks. During study periods, you are limited to 48 hours per fortnight.
Are cash jobs legal for international students in Australia?
Cash jobs are only legal if you still receive the correct wage, payslips, and super. Most cash jobs offered to students break the law.
