The Current Rule (as of July 2023)
The temporary COVID-era unlimited work hours for international students ended in July 2023. The standard rule is now back in effect: international students on a student visa (subclass 500) may work a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight (two-week period) during academic sessions.
When Are You Unrestricted?
- During official university breaks (semester breaks, summer break, winter break)
- If your course has a compulsory work component (e.g., placement, internship that's part of your degree)
- Your partner or dependants on student visas may work 48 hours per fortnight if you are not the primary applicant
What Counts as a "Fortnight"?
A fortnight is any 14-day period, not calendar two-week blocks. If you work 20 hours in one week and 28 in the next — that's 48 hours and you're within the limit. But if you work 30 hours in week 1 and 20 in week 2 — that's still 50 hours in a fortnight and you've breached the limit.
Consequences of Breach
- Visa cancellation — this is a real enforcement action, not theoretical
- Your employer can be fined (employers know this and increasingly track hours carefully)
- Re-entry to Australia can become difficult
Practical Advice
Keep track of your own hours. Use a simple spreadsheet or notes app. Do not rely on your employer to track your hours — that's your legal responsibility.
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