Working part-time in Australia

Work placement: real-world experience

Anna, a Swedish student completing an ecotourism degree gained a work placement with the South Australian Tourism Commission. “I managed to learn a lot from the tour guides,” Anna said. “I was involved in contributing to the economy, pleasing tourists and saving the environment at the same time. I think you learn more about the industry when you’re outside the university and can see how the real world works.”

Australian-style working

Ganeshan from Sri Lanka worked in a hotel doing a range of jobs such as room service and waiting. “It was a chance to get a feel of real working – Australian style!”

A worthwhile experience

Malaysian student, Sheila, worked in a gardening job and then as a web developer for her university. “It was a worthwhile experience as I got to learn about the Australian working culture.”

Making friends and practising English

Japanese student, Hoshimi, made friends and practised her English in her job as a shop assistant. “Sometimes I talk with foreign customers in English,” she said.

Extra pocket money

“I worked as a waitress,” said Sophia. “I also did house cleaning and stocktaking. It came in handy as I had a car and I needed extra money to put towards petrol and maintenance. The extra pocket money was worth it.”

Volunteer work

Mervin, a Malaysian student, volunteered with St Vincent de Paul, a charity organisation. “St Vincents assists people in need. Volunteers are needed in a wide of services such as the second-hand clothing shops, on night patrol and in their hostels for homeless people.”

Find out about working part-time while studying in Australia or talk to your IDP counsellor.