How much can I earn working part time in Australia?

Are you planning your exchange in Australia and want to know if you will be able to support yourself working part time? The answer is encouraging! With the new Australian minimum wage of AUD 24.95 per hour in 2025, working legally while studying can make a significant difference to your budget.

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.

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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 24.95 per hour, this means:

Weekly gain: Approximately AUD 600 (24 hours x AUD 24.95) 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.

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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 2025, the investment is really worth it when you consider the financial and professional return.

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Sectors that 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.

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Labor Rights You Need to Know

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.

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Best cities to work and study

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 2025 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.

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Practical tips for maximizing your 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.

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Smart financial planning

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.

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Opportunities beyond 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.

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The value of professional experience

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.

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Be Easy

Do you dream of working part-time in Australia while building your professional future? A Be Easy you are here to make that dream a reality! Our specialized team offers complete support from choosing the ideal course to guidance on the labor market and cultural adaptation. With our Study and work programs in Australia, you not only guarantee a first-class educational experience, but you also build a solid foundation for your international career. Contact us and find out how we can help you make the most of the opportunities Australia offers!