The national minimum wage increase
The Australian Government’s Fair Work Commission has announced an increase in the national minimum wage.
Following the Fair Work Commission (FWC) Annual Wage Review 2022-23, the Australian national minimum wage has now increased to $23.23 per hour. This increase will come into effect from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 July 2023.
Award minimum wage increase
Employers in Australia must comply with ‘awards’ when paying their workers. Awards are legal documents that outline the minimum pay rates and conditions of employment across more than 100 industries and occupations.
Award rates outline how much pay a worker in a particular industry will receive. Knowing your pay entitlements will help students ensure that they are receiving the correct wage. If they’re not sure which award applies to them, they can use Find my award.
Work hours limit
From 1 July 2023, the number of work hours allowed during study terms and semesters for international students on a student visa (subclass 500) in Australia will be capped at 48 hours per fortnight, during study terms and semesters.
This reinstatement of a work hours limit for student visa holders follows a temporary relaxation of work hours rules between July 2022 and June 2023.
As with the usual work hours limit rules, student visa holders can still work unlimited hours during term and semester holiday (non-study) periods.
Work rights and protections
International students are protected by Australia’s workplace laws. Please visit the Study Australia Employability Hub for student and graduate work information, and links to a wide range of translated resources on work rights and protections.
