How much can I earn working part time in Australia?
At the AUD$ 26.44 hourly minimum wage, 24 hours a week comes to AUD$ 634.56. On a student visa the cap is 48 hours a fortnight.
Working during an exchange isn't just a way to defray your expenses. It's an incredible opportunity to gain international experience, practice everyday English, and build a network of contacts that can open doors for your future career.
How much can you earn working part time?
With an Australian student visa, you are allowed to work up to 24 hours a week during term time. Doing the math with the current minimum wage of AUD$ 26.44 per hour, this means:
Weekly gain: AUD$ 634.56 (24 hours × AUD$ 26.44) Monthly gain: Between AUD 2,400 and AUD 2,600, depending on the number of weeks in the month
To get a clearer idea, let's convert to reais: considering the current price, you can earn around R$ 87.00 per hour worked. This represents a monthly income of approximately R$ 8,700 to R$ 9,400 working the maximum allowed.
It's important to remember that many employers pay above minimum wage, especially in sectors such as hospitality, sales, and specialty services. As explained by our guide on how to find part-time jobs in Australia, there are several opportunities that can offer even better compensation.
Cost of living vs. earnings: do accounts close?
The cost of living in major Australian cities ranges from AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,500 per month for students. Sydney, being the most expensive city, may reach the upper limit of this range, while cities like Brisbane and Adelaide are closer to the minimum value.
Let's analyze a practical scenario:
- Monthly gain: AUD 2,500 (working close to the allowed limit)
- Average cost of living: AUD 2,000
- Monthly leftover: AUD 500
This means that by working part time, not only are you able to cover your basic expenses, but you still have money left over for extra activities, trips, or to form an emergency reserve.
As our analysis of study and work in Australia in 2026, the investment is really worth it when you consider the financial and professional return.
Which sectors hire students the most?
Some sectors of the Australian economy are traditionally more open to hiring international students:
Hospitality and tourism: Restaurants, cafés, hotels, and pubs are major employers of students. The multicultural experience of Brazilians is highly valued in this sector.
Retail: Stores, supermarkets, and shopping centers often seek employees with good communication and ease to serve diverse customers.
Cleaning and maintenance: Although it's not the dream job, it pays well and offers flexible hours, making it ideal for those just starting out.
Customer service: Call centers and technical support companies value bilingual professionals, especially to serve Latin markets.
Delivery and logistics: With the growth of delivery, there are many opportunities to work with full schedule flexibility.
Which workplace rights apply to part-time work?
Working in Australia means being protected by strict employment laws. How do you explain our Guide to labor rights in Australia, you have the right to:
- Always receive at least the national minimum wage
- Have your overtime paid with additional
- Take paid breaks during working hours
- Receive an additional one on weekends and holidays
- To be treated with respect and dignity in the workplace
Never agree to work for less than minimum wage or under inadequate conditions. Australia has active oversight bodies that protect the rights of workers, including international students.
Which city pays off best for part-time work?
The choice of city can significantly impact both your job opportunities and your monthly expenses. Our analysis of 5 best cities to work in Australia in 2026 shows that each location has its own peculiarities:
Sydney: Larger labor market, but also higher cost of living. Ideal for those seeking experience in large corporations.
Melbourne: Excellent balance between professional opportunities and quality of life. Strong hospitality and culture sector.
Brisbane: More affordable cost of living, tropical climate, and accelerated economic growth.
Perth: Traditionally higher salaries due to the mining industry, but more specific labor market.
Adelaide: A quieter city, with a reduced cost of living and opportunities in specific sectors.
How do you increase part-time earnings?
Get ready before you arrive: Have your resume in English ready and practice interviewing. The faster you get a job, the better for your budget.
Be flexible with schedules: Employers value students who can work different shifts, including weekends.
Invest in networking: Many opportunities arise through referrals. Attend events, chat with classmates, and keep in touch with former co-workers.
Consider seasonal jobs: During school holidays, you can work 40 hours a week, significantly increasing your income.
Keep your documents organized: Always have your Tax File Number (TFN), active bank account, and identification documents in hand.
How do you manage money on part-time hours?
Working part-time in Australia requires financial discipline. Some important tips:
- Set aside at least 20% of your income for emergencies
- Maintain strict spending control using local apps
- Take advantage of student discounts whenever possible
- Consider splitting accommodation to reduce housing costs
- Cook at home most of the time
As we addressed in our Guide to opening a bank account in Australia, having a local account makes it much easier to receive a salary and control finances.
Can you earn above the minimum wage?
Although the minimum wage is the starting point, many students are able to earn more as they gain experience and demonstrate competence. Some examples:
Specialized jobs: If you have skills in design, programming, or languages, you can find well-paying freelance jobs.
Leadership positions: Over time, you can be promoted to supervisor or trainer, which significantly increases the salary.
Tips: In restaurants and bars, tips can represent a significant addition to the monthly income.
Weekend jobs: Many sectors pay an additional 50% to 100% on weekends.
What does part-time work add besides income?
In addition to immediate financial gain, working in Australia offers valued international experience in the Brazilian market. Employers recognize that professionals who have worked abroad develop:
- Greater adaptability and flexibility
- Advanced intercultural communication
- Proactivity and independence
- Actual fluency in English
- Global Business Overview
This experience may result in higher salaries when you return to Brazil or open doors to future international opportunities.
Any remaining questions about part-time earnings?
Is the cap 24 hours a week?
A student visa allows up to 48 hours a fortnight in the study period. That averages 24 hours, but the count is fortnightly.
Does the minimum wage apply to students?
Yes. AUD$ 26.44 an hour is the national floor. Casual work adds 25%.
Can part-time work cover rent?
In a mid-cost city with a shared room, the numbers close with more room. In Sydney rent takes a larger share.
Can I work more in school holidays?
Yes. During the institution’s official holidays the study-period hour cap falls away.
Does hospitality pay the minimum?
Many roles start at the floor. Weekends and public holidays add penalty rates.
You have the earnings. What is the path to study and work in Australia?
City, visa and job market only close in the same project. The path is on study and work in Australia.
Be Easy: boutique study abroad consultancy
Study and work in Australia is for people who want international qualification with real income abroad. At Be Easy, our curation covers visa pathways, partner schools and a dedicated senior consultant from planning through the first weeks in the country. Get in touch with us to see which path fits your profile.
