Minimum wage in Australia in 2025: discover the new amount
The new minimum wage rate places Australia among the countries with the highest minimum wage in the world, offering even more attractive conditions for international students who wish to work during their studies. Let's analyze how this change directly impacts your financial planning and the opportunities available in the country.
What changed in the Australian minimum wage in 2025
The Fair Work Commission has officially announced that, as of July 1, 2025, Australia's national minimum wage will be AU$ 24.95 per hour. This 3.5% increase represents a significant increase from the previous amount of AU$ 24.10, demonstrating the Australian government's commitment to the economic well-being of workers.
For those who work full time (38 hours a week), this means a weekly compensation of AU$ 948.10, totaling approximately AU$ 49,300 annually. In amounts converted to the Brazilian real (considering the approximate exchange rate of R$ 3.20), we are talking about about R$ 157,760 per year - an amount substantially higher than the Brazilian minimum wage.
Key changes for 2025:
- Value per hour: AU$ 24.95 (increase from AU$ 0.85)
- Weekly value: AU$ 948.10 for 38 hours
- Percentage of increase: 3.5% compared to 2024
- Effective date: July 1, 2025
How does the minimum wage compare to other countries
The Australian minimum wage of AU$ 24.95 places the country among the world's leading minimum wage. To put it into perspective, let's compare with other popular exchange destinations:
*Converted values with approximate quotes from December 2024
Sectors that offer the best opportunities
For international students who wish Study and Work in Australia, some sectors stand out for offering compensation above the minimum wage and flexible hours:
Hospitality and tourism
- Average compensation: AU$ 25-35/hour
- Advantages: Additional tips, international environment
- Schedules: Flexible, ideal for students
Retail and customer service
- Average compensation: AU$ 24.95-28/hour
- Advantages: Sales experience, English development
- Opportunities: Sales commissions
Technology and Technical Support
- Average compensation: AU$ 30-45/hour
- Advantages: International experience in tech
- Requirements: Advanced English, technical knowledge
Education and tutoring
- Average compensation: AU$ 35-55/hour
- Advantages: Academic networking, flexibility
- Opportunities: Portuguese teaching, academic tutoring
Labor rights for international students
Students with a student visa in Australia are entitled to work until 48 biweekly hours during the term of office and Full-time during academic holidays. In addition to the guaranteed minimum wage, workers are entitled to:
Mandatory benefits:
- Superannuation: Retirement contribution (11% of salary)
- Penalty rates: Additional payment for weekends and holidays
- Annual leave: Paid vacation (4 weeks a year)
- Sick leave: Paid sick leave
Legal protections:
- Safe work environment
- Protection against discrimination
- Right to paid breaks
- Overtime pay when applicable
Cost of living vs. purchasing power
The high Australian minimum wage needs to be analyzed considering the local cost of living. Let's examine the main monthly expenses for an exchange student:
Housing and accommodation
- Shared room: AU$ 180-280/week
- Own apartment: AU$ 350-500/week (capitals)
- Homestay: AU$ 250-320/week (including meals)
Food
- Supermarket: AU$ 80-120/week
- Meals out: AU$ 15-25 per meal
- Fast food: AU$ 10-15 per meal
Transportation
- Public transport: AU$ 30-50/week
- Bicycle: One-time investment of AU$ 200-500
- Uber/taxi: AU$ 15-30 per trip
Other expenses
- Telephone: AU$ 30-50/month
- Academy: AU$ 60-100/month
- Entertainment: AU$ 100-200/month
Result: With the new minimum wage, working 20 hours a week (AU$ 499), it is possible to cover basic expenses and still have a reserve for emergencies and leisure.
Opportunities by state and city
Work opportunities and compensation vary significantly between Australian states:
New South Wales (Sydney)
- Average salary: 15-20% above the national minimum
- Trending sectors: Technology, finance, tourism
- Cost of living: High but offset by salaries
Victoria (Melbourne)
- Average salary: 10-15% above the national minimum
- Trending sectors: Education, health, gastronomy
- Cost of living: Moderate, excellent quality of life
Queensland (Brisbane/Gold Coast)
- Average salary: Close to the national minimum
- Trending sectors: Tourism, agriculture, mining
- Cost of living: More affordable than Sydney/Melbourne
Western Australia (Perth)
- Average salary: 20-25% above the national minimum
- Trending sectors: Mining, construction, technology
- Cost of living: Moderate, with lots of opportunities
Financial planning for exchange students
To maximize the benefit of the new Australian minimum wage, strategic financial planning is essential:
First months (adaptation)
- Emergency reserve: AU$ 3,000-4,000
- Initial expenses: Bond, basic furniture, documentation
- Focus: Establish routine and find work
Stabilization period (3-6 months)
- Objective: Balancing studies and work
- Financial goal: Cover monthly expenses with part-time work
- Investment: Skill Development and Networking
Growth period (6+ months)
- Opportunities: Promotions, higher-paying jobs
- Planning: Savings for trips, additional courses
- Perspective: Consider permanent residence options
Practical savings tips
- Take advantage of student promotions: Discounts on transportation, cinema, restaurants
- Cook at home: Significant savings compared to eating out
- Share expenses: Divide household expenses with roommates
- Use apps: Discount and cashback apps are very popular
Perspectives for the future
The consistent increase in the Australian minimum wage reflects the country's economic stability and commitment to quality of life. For international students, this means:
Long-term benefits:
- Higher purchasing power and quality of life
- Possibility of significant savings
- Globally valued professional experience
- Valuable international networking
Career opportunities:
- Heated labor market in various areas
- Permanent residence programs for qualified professionals
- Possibility of rapid career progression
- Multicultural and innovative environment
The program Learning a language abroad combined with work in Australia offers a solid foundation for those seeking not only to master English but also to build an international career.
Comparison with other exchange destinations
For those considering different destination options, it's worth comparing Australia with other popular programs. While programs like Study and Work in Ireland offer excellent value for money in Europe, Australia stands out for its high salaries and unparalleled quality of life.
A Study and Work in New Zealand it also has similarities with Australia, but with slightly lower salaries. On the other hand, countries like Study and Work in Malta they offer lower costs, but with also lower compensation.
How to make the most of your exchange
The new minimum wage of AU$ 24.95 represents a unique opportunity for international students to maximize their experience in Australia:
Strategies for success
- Invest in qualification: Use part of the income for complementary courses
- Build networking: Attend professional and social events
- Explore the country: With good income, you can travel and get to know the local culture
- Think about the future: Consider permanent residence options if you like the experience
Growth sectors for 2025
- Technology: Artificial intelligence, software development
- Health: Aged care, nursing, physical therapy
- Construction: Post-pandemic real estate boom
- Tourism: Strong recovery in international tourism
The increase in the minimum wage to AU$ 24.95 per hour consolidates Australia as one of the most attractive destinations for exchange with work. With proper planning and the right strategies, it is possible not only to cover the costs of the experience, but also to build a solid foundation for the professional future.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand that choosing the ideal destination for your exchange is a decision that can transform your entire professional career. Our expert team offers full support for your journey in Australia, from guidance on visas and documentation to practical tips on work and accommodation. With the new minimum wage of AU$ 24.95, there has never been a better time to fulfill your dream of studying and working in Australia. Get in touch with us today and find out how we can make your Australian experience successful!
