Part-Time Jobs in Australia for Students: Top Roles and How to Apply

Looking for a part-time job in Australia to support your studies?

Australia is one of the top destinations for international students, and many students take on part-time work to cover their expenses while gaining valuable experience. 

Why are part-time jobs in Australia a great option for students?

• Rent, food, and transportation can add up. A part-time job can ease the financial pressure.
• You’ll develop important skills, like time management and teamwork, that will help in your future career.
• Most part-time roles offer flexible hours, allowing you to balance work and study.

So, what types of jobs are popular for students in Australia?

• Hospitality jobs: Baristas, waitstaff, and kitchen assistants are in high demand in cafes and restaurants.
• Retail positions: Working as a cashier or sales assistant in stores is a classic student job.
• Admin roles: Some students work as receptionists or in customer service for a bit more professional experience.

We’ll go over the top part-time jobs in Australia for students​, how to apply for them, and how these roles can help you thrive while studying down under. 

Must Read: Cost of Study in Australia

Best Part-Time Jobs in Australia for Students

Many of the part-time job opportunities require little to no experience and offer flexible hours that fit around university schedules.

1. Customer Service and Sales Roles

Many students work in retail and customer service, as these jobs offer flexible hours and on-the-job training.

Common Roles:

Retail Associate – Helping customers, restocking shelves, and managing the cash register.
Supermarket Staff – Working at checkout, assisting in different store departments.
Cashier – Handling payments at retail stores and supermarkets.
Call Center Representative – Answering customer queries, and handling complaints.

Average Pay:

$22 – $27 per hour (₹1,200 – ₹1,500)

Skills Required:
Strong communication skills.
Basic math skills for cash handling.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Tip: Major chains like Coles, Woolworths, Kmart, and Target regularly hire students for customer service roles.

2. Hospitality and Food Industry Jobs

The hospitality sector is one of the largest employers of students in Australia. It offers part-time roles with good tips and flexible shifts.

Common Roles:

Restaurant Server – Taking orders, serving food, and handling customer requests.
Barista – Making coffee, managing orders, handling customer service.
Fast-Food Crew – Working at chains like McDonald’s, KFC, Hungry Jack’s.
Hotel Receptionist – Managing front desk operations at hotels.

Average Pay:

$20 – $26 per hour (₹1,100 – ₹1,400) + tips in restaurants and cafes

Skills Required:
Good customer service and communication.
Ability to handle pressure during busy hours.
Barista certification (for coffee shops).

Tip: Look for jobs in popular cafe chains like Starbucks, Gloria Jean’s, or local restaurants.

3. Teaching and Academic Assistance

For students who excel in academics, teaching, and tutoring roles offer flexible hours and high pay. You can work independently or through universities.

Common Roles:

Private Tutor – Teach school or university students in subjects like math, science, and English.
University Teaching Assistant (TA) – Assist professors with coursework, grading, and student support.
Research Assistant – Help with academic research, data collection, and project management.
Online Tutor – Conduct virtual classes through platforms like Superprof, TutorMe, and Cluey Learning.

Average Pay:

$30 – $50 per hour (₹1,600 – ₹2,700) (Higher for university TAs and research assistants)

Skills Required:
Strong subject knowledge.
Good communication and teaching ability.
Online teaching setup (for remote tutoring).

Tip: University students can apply for on-campus tutoring programs or become student mentors for first-year students.

4. Transport and Delivery Jobs

For students looking for independent, flexible work, delivery, and transport jobs provide good earnings and minimal supervision.

Common Roles:

Food Delivery Rider – Deliver meals through apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog.
Package Delivery Driver – Work with Australia Post, Amazon Flex, or DHL for parcel deliveries.
Rideshare Driver – Earn by driving for Uber or Didi (must meet visa and age requirements).

Average Pay:

$25 – $30 per hour (₹1,350 – ₹1,600) + incentives & tips

Skills Required:
A valid driver’s license (for car deliveries and rideshare jobs).
A bicycle or scooter (for local delivery jobs).
Time management and navigation skills.

Tip: If you don’t own a vehicle, many companies offer rental programs for delivery workers.

5. Administrative and Office Jobs

If you prefer a structured work environment with fixed hours, administrative roles can be a great fit. Many universities, libraries, and private companies hire students for part-time office work.

Common Roles:

Data Entry Clerk – Enter and manage digital records for companies.
Front Desk Staff – Work as a receptionist in offices, gyms, or clinics.
Library Assistant – Organize books, help students, and manage library records.
Administrative Assistant – Support office tasks like scheduling, paperwork, and emails.

Average Pay:

$26 – $35 per hour (₹1,400 – ₹1,900)

Skills Required:
Basic computer knowledge (Excel, Word, data entry software).
Strong communication and organization skills.
Ability to handle customer queries in a professional setting.

Tip: University libraries and student service centers often hire students for admin work – check campus job boards.

6. Creative and Freelancing Jobs

For students with creative skills, freelancing is a great way to earn money while building experience. Many companies and startups hire students for remote freelance work.

Common Roles:

Content Writer – Write blogs, articles, or marketing content for websites.
Graphic Designer – Create logos, social media posts, and brand designs.
Video Editor – Edit promotional videos, YouTube content, and short ads.
Social Media Manager – Manage Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook pages for businesses.

Average Pay:

$20 – $50 per hour (₹1,100 – ₹2,700) (Depends on skill level and experience)

Skills Required:
Knowledge of Canva, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, or Figma (for designers/editors).
Writing and SEO skills (for content writers).
Marketing and analytics experience (for social media managers).

Where to Find Freelancing Jobs?
Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer – Global freelance platforms.
Airtasker – Australia-based gig and freelance job marketplace.
University Job Boards – Many students find freelance gigs through university career portals.

Tip: Freelancing lets you work on your own schedule, but success depends on your skills and consistency.

How Much Can You Earn from Part-Time Jobs in Australia for Students?

The minimum wage for students and casual workers in Australia is $23.23 per hour (₹1,270) as of 2024. However, many jobs pay higher based on the role and experience.

Estimated Part-Time Earnings in Australia

Job Type	Average Hourly Pay (AUD)	Required Skills
Retail Sales Associate	$24 – $30 (₹1,300 – ₹1,650)	Customer service, communication
Restaurant Server/Barista	$25 – $32 (₹1,350 – ₹1,750)	Hospitality skills, multitasking
Private Tutor	$30 – $50 (₹1,650 – ₹2,750)	Subject expertise, teaching ability
Data Entry/Admin Assistant	$26 – $35 (₹1,400 – ₹1,900)	Computer skills, attention to detail
Freelance Writing/Design	$20 – $50 (₹1,100 – ₹2,750)	Writing, graphic design, digital marketing
Delivery Driver (Uber Eats, DoorDash)	$25 – $40 (₹1,350 – ₹2,200)	Driving license, time management
Internships (Paid)	$28 – $40 (₹1,500 – ₹2,200)	Industry-specific skills, networking

Tip: Jobs in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer higher pay, but living costs are also higher.

Read: Cost of Living in Melbourne

Read: Cost of Living in Sydney

Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in Australia for Students?

Finding a part-time job in Australia is easy if you know where to look. Here are some of the best ways to apply:

• University Career Centers & Job Portals
  Many universities have career hubs that list part-time job openings for students.
  On-campus jobs include library assistant, administrative work, and research assistantships.
• Online Job Platforms
  Seek (seek.com.au) – Australia’s largest job portal.
  Indeed (au.indeed.com) – Lists part-time and casual jobs.
  Jora (au.jora.com) – Great for student-friendly job listings.
  Airtasker – Freelance and gig work for students.
• Networking & Local Job Boards
  Check notice boards at supermarkets, cafes, and libraries for job postings.
  Connect with professors and classmates for assistantship opportunities.
  Join Facebook groups for casual work and short-term jobs.
• Walk-In Applications
  Many cafes, restaurants, and retail stores hire on the spot.
  Go directly to stores and ask if they are hiring.

Tip: Apply early in the semester before job competition increases. Employers prefer students with flexible schedules, so highlight your availability when applying!

Tips for Getting a Part-Time Job in Australia

Landing a part-time job in Australia is easier with a well-prepared resume, cover letter, and interview strategy. Here’s how you can improve your chances:

Write a Resume That Works in Australia

• Keep it short – One page is enough for part-time jobs.
• Mention relevant experience – Internships, volunteering, or personal projects count.
• Include your visa details – Employers want to know if you're allowed to work.
• Write a simple cover letter – Discuss why you're a good fit for the job.

Nail the Interview

• Be on time – Arrive at least 10 minutes early.
• Show enthusiasm – Employers prefer students who are willing to learn.
• Know the basics – If it's a retail or hospitality job, understand customer service.
• Common questions you should be ready for:
  • Why do you want this job?
  • What are your strengths?
  • How do you handle a difficult customer?

Balance Work & Study

• Stick to your work limits – Your visa allows 24 hours per week.
• Plan your shifts wisely – Avoid missing classes because of work.
• Don’t overwork – Make sure you still have time to study and rest.

How to Apply for Part-Time Jobs in Australia

Step 1: Where to Find Jobs

University Job Portals – Many campuses have on-campus work opportunities.

Online Job Sites:

• Seek (seek.com.au)
• Indeed (au.indeed.com)
• Jora (au.jora.com)

Local Job Boards & Facebook Groups – Cafés, shops, and small businesses often post vacancies here.

Step 2: Send a Strong Application

Customize your resume – Make small tweaks based on the job description.
Read the job listing carefully – Some places prefer walk-in applications.
Apply early – The best time is before the semester starts when fewer students are job-hunting.

Step 3: Follow Up & Prepare for Interviews

If you don’t hear back in a week, follow up politely.
Practice common interview questions to sound confident.
Dress neatly—even for casual jobs, first impressions matter.

Final Tip: Apply for multiple jobs to increase your chances. Many students find work within a few weeks if they stay persistent.

Work Rights for International Students in Australia

How Many Hours Can Students Work?

Australia allows international students on a subclass 500 student visa to work, but there are restrictions:

• During study terms: Maximum 24 hours per week.
• During holidays: Unlimited hours, which lets the students work full-time.

Types of Jobs Allowed for Student Visa Holders

International students can work in most sectors, but some common part-time jobs include:

Retail & Customer Service – Supermarkets, clothing stores, call centers.
Hospitality & Tourism – Cafés, restaurants, hotels, delivery services.
On-Campus Jobs – University admin, library assistants, research assistants.
Freelancing & Tutoring – Private tutoring, content writing, graphic design.

Rules for Working During Study Terms vs. Holidays

During Study Terms:

• Students can work up to 24 hours per week.
• Work schedules must not interfere with class attendance.

During Semester Breaks & Holidays:

• Students can work full-time without restrictions.
• Many take on extra shifts to save money for living expenses.

Work-Study Balance: How to Manage Part-Time Jobs with Studies?

Time Management Strategies for Students Working Part-Time

Create a Weekly Schedule – Plan your study hours and work shifts in advance.
Prioritize Assignments – Start assignments early to avoid last-minute stress.
Use Breaks Wisely – Review notes or complete small tasks between shifts.

Prioritizing Coursework While Working

Don’t Take on Too Many Shifts – Balance is key; don’t sacrifice academics.
Choose Flexible Jobs – Hospitality, retail, and freelancing offer flexible shifts.
Use University Resources – Many universities have study support programs.

Final Tip: If work starts affecting your studies, reduce your hours—your education should always come first!

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