Planning to study in Australia? Understanding the minimum wage is important before you start looking for a part-time job.
Many international students, especially Indian students, choose Australia because of its strong job market and relatively high wages. However, thousands of students are still underpaid every year because they don’t know their workplace rights.
In this guide, you’ll learn the latest minimum wage in Australia for international students, how much students typically earn per hour, work restrictions under the Student Visa (Subclass 500), and what to do if an employer pays you less than the legal rate.
Table of Contents
What is the minimum wage in Australia for international students?
International students are entitled to the same minimum wage as Australian citizens and permanent residents. Employers cannot legally pay you less simply because you are on a student visa.
From 1 July 2026, Australia’s national minimum wage is AUD 26.44 per hour, which equals approximately AUD 1,004.90 per week for a standard 38-hour work week.
However, many student jobs are covered by industry awards that may provide higher pay rates depending on:
- Industry
- Age
- Experience
- Shift timing
- Weekend work
- Public holiday work
Minimum Wage in Australia in USD
The exact USD value changes with exchange rates, but AUD 26.44 per hour is approximately USD 17–18 per hour in 2026.
For international students comparing destinations, Australia’s minimum wage remains among the highest in the world.
Common student jobs and real hourly pay
Although the national minimum wage is AUD 26.44 per hour, many students earn more depending on their industry.
Hospitality Jobs
Examples:
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Fast-food outlets
- Hotels
Typical pay:
AUD 27–35 per hour
Weekend and public holiday shifts usually pay more.
Retail Jobs
Examples:
- Supermarkets
- Department stores
- Convenience stores
Typical pay:
AUD 27–33 per hour
Warehouse Jobs
Examples:
- Pick packing
- Distribution centres
- Logistics
Typical pay:
AUD 30–40 per hour
Many warehouse roles also offer evening and night shift loading.
Cleaning Jobs
Examples:
- Commercial cleaning
- Housekeeping
- Office cleaning
Typical pay:
AUD 28–38 per hour
Delivery Driver Jobs
Examples:
- Food delivery
- Parcel delivery
Typical pay:
AUD 25–40+ per hour
Income can vary based on hours worked and demand.
Minimum Wage in Australia for International Students After Tax
Many students want to know how much they actually take home after tax.
As of 1 July 2026, Australia’s National Minimum Wage is AUD 26.44 per hour before tax.
The amount you receive after tax depends on:
- Your annual income
- Whether you have a Tax File Number (TFN)
- Your tax residency status
- Any tax offsets or deductions you claim
For most international students working part-time and earning below AUD 45,000 per year, the effective tax rate is usually around 10% to 20%.
| Gross Hourly Wage | Estimated After-Tax Pay |
| AUD 26.44 | AUD 22–24 per hour |
This means a student working the maximum allowed 48 hours per fortnight could typically earn:
- Before tax: approximately AUD 1,269 per fortnight
- After tax: approximately AUD 1,080–1,150 per fortnight
These figures are estimates and can vary depending on your individual tax situation.
Important: Get a Tax File Number (TFN)
Before starting work, apply for a Tax File Number (TFN). Without a TFN, employers may withhold tax at a much higher rate, potentially up to 47%.
Student visa work hours you must follow
If you are on a Student Visa (Subclass 500), work limits are strict.
During study periods, you can work 48 hours per fortnight. That is an average of 24 hours per week.
During semester breaks, you can work unlimited hours.
Exceeding these limits can lead to visa cancellation. It does not matter if your employer asks you to work more.
Casual jobs, payslips, and superannuation
Most students work casual roles. Casual workers receive a 25 percent loading on top of the base rate.
You must receive:
- A payslip within one working day of being paid
- Superannuation payments into your super account
- Penalty rates if you work weekends or public holidays
Cash jobs without payslips are risky. If there is a dispute, you have no proof.
Common wage scams targeting international students
Many underpayments happen because students fear losing their jobs or visas.
Watch out for these signs:
- Being told that student wages are lower
- Unpaid trial shifts
- Cash-only payments every week
- No payslips or super
- Being asked to work more than the allowed hours
All of these are red flags.
Do International Students Get Paid Less Than Australians?
No.
Australian workplace laws require employers to pay international students the same rate as local workers performing the same role.
Your nationality, visa type, or country of origin cannot be used as a reason to reduce your pay.
Whether you are from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, or any other country, the minimum wage laws remain exactly the same.
What to do if you are underpaid
If you believe you are being paid less than the legal rate:
Step 1: Check Your Award
Determine the correct wage for your industry.
Step 2: Collect Evidence
Keep:
- Payslips
- Bank statements
- Screenshots of messages
- Work schedules
Step 3: Speak to Your Employer
Many issues can be resolved through discussion.
Step 4: Contact the Fair Work Ombudsman
The Fair Work Ombudsman provides free assistance and information to workers in Australia.
International students are protected under Australian workplace laws regardless of nationality.
Final Thoughts
Australia continues to offer one of the highest minimum wages in the world, making it an attractive destination for international students. While the national minimum wage in 2026 is AUD 26.44 per hour, many students earn significantly more through casual employment, weekend shifts, and industry-specific award rates.
Before accepting any job, understand your workplace rights, keep records of your work, and make sure your employer follows Australian wage laws. Knowing the rules can help you avoid underpayment and make the most of your student experience in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do international students get paid less than Australians in Australia?
No. International and Indian students must be paid the same minimum wage as Australians for the same work.
Can I work full-time on a student visa in Australia?
Only during official semester breaks. During study periods, you are limited to 48 hours per fortnight.
Are cash jobs legal for international students in Australia?
Cash jobs are only legal if you still receive the correct wage, payslips, and super. Most cash jobs offered to students break the law.
What is the minimum wage in Australia per hour for international students?
From July 2026, Australia’s national minimum wage is AUD 26.44 per hour.
