Planning to study in Australia for the 2026 intake? Understanding the part-time work rules and post-study work visa options is crucial for your financial planning and career success. This guide covers everything you need to know about work hours for students in Australia 2026 and Australian graduate visa options.
Part-Time Work Rules in Australia 2026 Intake
For many students, the ability to work is what makes studying abroad financially viable. The part-time work rules in Australia are designed to help you cover living costs while ensuring your academics remain the priority.
The current work hours for students in Australia are capped at 48 hours per fortnight (two-week period) during the semester. This allows students to earn a substantial income – especially given that Australia’s national minimum wage is one of the highest in the world, currently around $24.95 AUD per hour (plus superannuation).
During scheduled university breaks, the cap is lifted, allowing for unlimited work hours. This is the perfect time to build your savings.
| Category | Australia 2026 Regulation Details |
| In-Session Work Limit | 48 hours per fortnight |
| Holiday Work Limit | Unlimited |
| Estimated Weekly Earnings | $638 – $750 AUD (approx.) |
| Min. Hourly Rate | $24.95+ AUD |
What Counts as “Work” in Australia
Any activity where you receive payment, rewards, or benefits counts as work in Australia, including:
- Traditional part-time jobs
- Freelancing or gig work
- Online work
- Commission-based work
However, mandatory course placements listed in your CRICOS course structure don’t count toward the 48-hour limit.
Post-Study Work Visa in Australia
After graduation, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows you to stay in Australia, work, and gain Australian work experience. However, recent reforms have made eligibility stricter.
2026 Australia Graduate Visa Options
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) offers different streams depending on your qualification level:
| Stream | Qualification | Duration | Age Limit |
| Post-Vocational Education Work | Diploma/Trade qualification | 18 months | Under 35 |
| Post-Higher Education Work | Bachelor’s/Master’s degree | 2-4 years (varies by nationality) | Under 35 |
| Second Post-Higher Education Work | Regional study graduates | 1-2 additional years | Under 35 |
PhD/Research Master’s Exception: Graduates of a Master’s (Research) or Doctoral (PhD) degree remain eligible until they are 50 years old.
Key Australia 2026 Changes
- Higher Visa Fees: From March 1, 2026, the application fee for the 485 graduate visa increased from $2,300 to $4,600 for most applicants.
- Stricter English Requirements: The minimum required score increased to an overall IELTS Academic 6.5 (or equivalent), with a minimum of 5.5 in each section.
- Age Cap Reduced: Maximum age dropped from 50 to 35 years for most applicants.
Post-Study Work Visa Eligibility
To qualify for the 2026 Australian graduate visa options, you must:
- Complete at least 2 years of study in Australia (CRICOS-registered course)
- Apply within 6 months of course completion
- Meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS 6.5+)
- Be under 35 years old (exceptions apply)
- Hold adequate health insurance
- Meet health and character requirements
Planning Your Total Budget
To live comfortably, you must align the part-time work rules in Australia 2026 with your lifestyle. While the work hours for students in Australia provide a safety net, they should not be your sole source of tuition funding. Most students use their earnings to cover groceries, transport, and leisure, while relying on family support or loans for tuition.
Financial Reality: With 48 hours per fortnight at AU$25/hour, you can earn more than AU$1,200 per fortnight (AU$2,600/month). This will cover most living expenses outside major cities.
By keeping your post-study work visa goal in mind, every shift you work today becomes a stepping stone toward a permanent career in Australia tomorrow.
Don’t navigate the complex Australian visa landscape alone. At Aspire Global Pathways (AGP), we specialise in making your Australian dream a reality with expert counselling and flawless application support. Contact AGP today for a free profile assessment!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many hours can I work as an international student in Australia in 2026?
As an international student in Australia 2026, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during official breaks.
2. Has the 60-hour work proposal been approved?
No, it’s still a proposal. Current 48-hour limits apply for 2026 intakes.
3. How long is the post-study work visa for bachelor’s graduates?
Typically 2-3 years, depending on nationality and qualification level.
4. What is the age limit for the 485 graduate visa in 2026?
Under 35 years for most applicants and under 50 for PhD/Research Master’s graduates.
5. How much does the 485 visa cost in 2026?
AU$4,600 for main applicants (increased from AU$2,300 in March 2026).