The Australian government has recently introduced several significant changes to the Australian Student Visa regulations (Subclass 500). These changes aim to provide greater flexibility and opportunities for international students studying in Australia. This article will discuss major updates, including work restrictions, visa fees, post-study work rights, and the national minimum wage. At Right and Associates, we strive to inform students about the latest updates and provide comprehensive educational consultancy services.

Work Restriction

Starting from July 1, 2023, students holding the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) can now work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. This change allows students to gain valuable work experience and earn income to support their living expenses. It is important to note that the hours worked should not interfere with the student’s academic commitments.

Additionally, there is an exemption for students working in the aged care sector on May 9, 2023. They can continue to work unrestricted hours in the aged care sector until December 31, 2023. This exemption recognizes the critical role of international students in the aged care industry and aims to provide support during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic (Work restrictions for student visa holders, 2023).

Student VISA Fee

Effective immediately, the visa application fee for the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) has been increased from AUD 650 to AUD 710. This adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining the quality of education and support services provided to international students. Prospective students must consider this change when planning their study abroad journey (Student VISA Subclass 500, 2023).

Extension of Post-Study Work Rights

The Australian government has extended the post-study work rights for eligible students to enhance opportunities for international graduates. Graduates who possess skills in the fields of health, teaching, engineering, and agriculture can now benefit from a two-year extension of their post-study work rights. This extension enables them to gain practical work experience in Australia after completing their studies and further contribute to the country’s workforce.

To determine the eligible courses for extended post-study work rights, students are advised to refer to the official list provided by the Australian government.

Updated Duration for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Degrees

The duration of post-study work rights for international graduates varies based on their qualification level. The recent changes specify the updated duration for different degrees:

  • Bachelor’s degrees: The post-study work rights have been extended to four years.
  • Master’s degrees: Graduates with a Master’s degree can now avail themselves of five years of post-study work rights.
  • Doctoral degrees: Students who have completed a Doctoral degree in Australia can benefit from an extended period of six years for post-study work rights.

These changes offer international graduates more time to explore career opportunities and contribute to the Australian workforce (Addressing skills shortages in key industries and rebuilding the international education sector, 2023)

National Minimum Wage

As part of the government’s commitment to fair employment practices, the national minimum wage has been increased to AUD 23.23 per hour. This adjustment ensures that international students who engage in part-time work receive fair compensation. Employers must comply with this new wage rate when hiring international students, safeguarding their rights and financial well-being (Minimum Wages, 2023).

Conclusion

The recent changes to the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) bring positive developments for international students pursuing their studies in Australia. The increased work hours, extended post-study work rights, updated duration for different degrees, and the national minimum wage increase create a more favorable student environment. These changes aim to attract and retain talented individuals who can contribute to the Australian economy while pursuing their academic goals.

At Right and Associates, we understand the importance of staying up-to-date with these changes. Our experienced educational consultants are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and guidance to international students. We ensure that students are well-informed about the latest updates and assist them in navigating the visa application process seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

On a student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) while your course is in session. However, during scheduled breaks or holidays, you can work full-time.

Yes, during university breaks, international students are allowed to work full-time. However, it is important to note that this exemption applies only to scheduled breaks and not throughout the visa.

If you were already working in the aged care sector on May 9, 2023, you can continue working unrestricted hours until December 31, 2023.

The increased visa fee from AUD 650 to AUD 710 should be considered when planning your study abroad journey, and investigating this cost while budgeting for your education in Australia is essential.

The post-study work rights allow international graduates to work in Australia after completing their studies. The duration of the post-study work rights varies based on the level of qualification: Bachelor’s degrees have a four-year extension, Master’s degrees have a five-year extension, and Doctoral degrees have a six-year extension.

The two-year post-study work rights extension applies to students with skills in the fields of health, teaching, engineering, and agriculture. Please refer to the official list provided by the Australian government for the eligible courses.

The national minimum wage for international students in Australia is AUD 23.23 per hour. This rate applies to part-time or casual employment.

The increase in the national minimum wage ensures that international students receive fair compensation for their part-time work, promoting fair employment practices.