Student Visas 40 hour work change
40 hour limit relaxed for some student visa holders. International student nurse working in aged care facilities, students who have finished their scheduled course and students studying for a masters by research or a doctorate can now work unlimited hours.
The number of hours international student nurses can work in aged care facilities has been relaxed. On 18th March the government announced the measure which is designed to help combat the impact of the corona virus, particularly among the vulnerable elderly. Allowing international student nurses to work more hours in aged care facilities could also free up medical personnel to help hospitals deal with the cover-19 cases.
International student nurses have joined other students working for supermarket chains in having the number of hours they can work relaxed. Usually student visa-holders can work up to a maximum of 40 hours in a two week period.
Australia’s major supermarkets will temporarily be able to offer more hours to international student employees to help keep shelves stocked.
On 13th March 2020, Minister for Education Dan Tehan said the changes would help supermarkets meet immediate demand with their existing work force and allow international students to support themselves.
“This initiative will give international students more flexibility to work while studying and also allow employers to meet demand during a busy period,” Mr Tehan said.
International students studying for a masters by research and those studying for a doctorate can also work unlimited hours.
Another cohort of students to benefit from extended work hours are students whose courses are out of session. Students whose courses are out of session during scheduled course breaks or students who have finished their scheduled course can now work unlimited hours.
Employers are still required to abide by all relevant Australian workplace laws. Students have the same rights under Australian workplace law as all other Australian employees.
Call 1300 794 680 with your visa query.
