Part-Time Jobs for Students Australia

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Part-Time Jobs for Students Australia 2025:

Complete Guide

 

 

Balancing study with part-time work is a reality for millions of Australian students. Part-time jobs provide income, work experience, and valuable skills while accommodating academic commitments. This comprehensive guide covers the best part-time jobs for students, including pay rates, strategies for balancing work and study, where to find positions, and tips for success.

 

Quick Overview: Part-Time Jobs for Students Australia

Best Student Jobs: Retail, hospitality, tutoring, admin support, delivery driving

Average Pay: $20-30/hour (casual rates with loading)

Typical Hours: 10-25 hours per week during semester, more during holidays

Key Requirement: Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

Benefits: Income, work experience, transferable skills, networking

Challenge: Balancing work commitments with study demands

 

Best Part-Time Jobs for Students

 

  1. Retail (Supermarkets, Department Stores)

Positions:

  • Cashier
  • Sales assistant
  • Stock replenishment
  • Customer service

Employers:

  • Woolworths, Coles, ALDI
  • Kmart, Target, Big W
  • Bunnings, JB Hi-Fi

Pay: $22-28/hour (casual with loading)

Hours: 10-25 hours/week, flexible scheduling

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Flexible hours around classes

✅ Weekend work suits student schedule

✅ Many locations near universities/homes

✅ Consistent hours available

✅ Staff discounts save money

✅ No work taken home

 

Challenges:

❌ Weekend work impacts social life

❌ Standing for long periods

❌ Can be repetitive

Best For: Students needing consistent income and flexible scheduling

 

  1. Hospitality (Cafes, Restaurants, Bars)

Positions:

  • Waiter/waitress
  • Barista
  • Bartender
  • Kitchen hand
  • Food runner

Employers:

  • Local cafes and restaurants
  • Chain restaurants
  • Pubs and bars
  • Hotels

Pay: $23-35/hour (casual with loading, higher for bartending)

Hours: 10-30 hours/week, evening and weekend shifts

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Evening shifts suit daytime classes

✅ Weekend work available

✅ Tips supplement income ($20-200+/shift)

✅ Social, energetic environment

✅ Meal benefits (free/discounted food)

✅ Flexible scheduling

 

Challenges:

❌ Late nights (finish 11 PM-2 AM)

❌ Physically demanding

❌ Irregular hours

❌ Dealing with difficult customers

Requirements:

  • RSA certificate for bartending (18+)
  • Food handling certificate

Best For: Social students who don’t mind late nights and want higher pay

 

  1. Tutoring

Positions:

  • Private tutor (one-on-one)
  • Tutoring center instructor
  • Online tutor

Subjects:

  • High school subjects (Maths, English, Science)
  • University subjects
  • Music, languages, test prep

Pay: $25-80/hour depending on subject and level

Hours: 5-20 hours/week, flexible scheduling

Why Good for Students:

✅ Highest pay per hour

✅ Flexible scheduling (choose your hours)

✅ Reinforces your own knowledge

✅ Rewarding work

✅ Can work from home

✅ Build teaching skills

✅ No weekend requirement

 

Challenges:

❌ Inconsistent hours (varies by demand)

❌ Preparation time unpaid

❌ Finding clients initially difficult

❌ Seasonal (quieter during school holidays)

 

Requirements:

  • Strong academic performance
  • Good communication skills
  • Patience and teaching ability

Best For: High-achieving students with strong subject knowledge and teaching skills

 

  1. Fast Food (McDonald’s, KFC, Hungry Jack’s, Subway)

Positions:

  • Crew member
  • Cashier
  • Kitchen staff
  • Drive-thru operator

Pay: $18-26/hour (depending on age, casual with loading)

Hours: 10-30 hours/week, very flexible

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Very flexible scheduling

✅ Many locations

✅ Always hiring

✅ Quick training

✅ Meal benefits

✅ Clear career progression

✅ Work with other students

 

Challenges:

❌ Fast-paced, high-pressure

❌ Late nights and early mornings

❌ Dealing with difficult customers

❌ Can be stressful during rush

Best For: Students needing maximum flexibility and quick employment

 

  1. Delivery Driving (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Menulog)

Position: Delivery driver/rider

Pay: $15-30/hour (varies greatly by time, location, demand)

Hours: Completely flexible – work whenever you want

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Ultimate flexibility – choose when to work

✅ Work around class schedule

✅ No boss or fixed shifts

✅ Can work 2 hours or 20 hours per week

✅ Exercise if cycling

✅ Listen to podcasts/music while working

 

Challenges:

❌ Income unpredictable

❌ Vehicle costs (fuel, maintenance)

❌ Weather exposure

❌ Safety concerns

❌ No penalty rates or loading

❌ No guaranteed minimum wage

 

Requirements:

  • 18+ years old
  • Vehicle (car, scooter, bicycle)
  • Driver’s license (if driving)
  • Smartphone

Best For: Students wanting ultimate flexibility and owning vehicle

 

  1. Admin/Office Support

Positions:

  • Data entry
  • Receptionist
  • Office assistant
  • Filing clerk

Employers:

  • Small businesses
  • Universities (on-campus jobs)
  • Government departments
  • Corporate offices

Pay: $23-30/hour

Hours: 10-20 hours/week, often weekday daytime

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Professional environment

✅ Office skills development

✅ Resume-building experience

✅ Networking opportunities

✅ Relevant to many careers

✅ Usually no weekend work

 

Challenges:

❌ Harder to find

❌ May conflict with class times

❌ Often requires some experience

❌ Can be repetitive

 

Best For: Students seeking professional experience relevant to career goals

 

  1. Supermarket Online Shopping Picker

Position: Online shopping picker/packer

Employers: Woolworths, Coles

Pay: $23-27/hour (casual with loading)

Hours: 10-25 hours/week, flexible shifts including early morning

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Flexible scheduling

✅ Physical activity (walking, not standing still)

✅ Less customer interaction than cashier

✅ Early morning shifts (5-9 AM) suit afternoon classes

✅ Staff discount

✅ Consistent hours

 

Challenges:

❌ Physically demanding (walking, lifting)

❌ Time pressure (orders must be completed quickly)

❌ Early morning starts

Best For: Active students who prefer physical work over customer service

 

  1. Cinema/Entertainment Venue

Positions:

  • Usher
  • Candy bar attendant
  • Ticket sales

Employers:

  • Event Cinemas, Hoyts, Village
  • Bowling alleys, entertainment centers

Pay: $22-26/hour (casual with loading)

Hours: 10-20 hours/week, evening and weekend shifts

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Fun, social environment

✅ Free movies (staff benefit)

✅ Evening shifts suit daytime classes

✅ Less stressful than retail

✅ Work with other young people

 

Challenges:

❌ Quieter periods = fewer hours

❌ Weekend work essential

❌ Late nights

❌ Seasonal (busier during school holidays)

Best For: Movie lovers and social students

 

  1. Gym/Fitness Center

Positions:

  • Gym receptionist
  • Childcare attendant
  • Cleaning staff

Pay: $22-28/hour

Hours: 10-20 hours/week, early morning or evening shifts

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ Free gym membership

✅ Health-focused environment

✅ Early morning shifts (5-9 AM) suit afternoon classes

✅ Active environment

 

Challenges:

❌ Early morning starts (5-6 AM)

❌ Weekend work often required

❌ May need fitness qualifications for some roles

 

Best For: Fitness-focused students who don’t mind early mornings

 

  1. University On-Campus Jobs

Positions:

  • Library assistant
  • Student ambassador
  • Research assistant
  • Tutor/mentor
  • Admin support
  • Cafe/food service

Pay: $23-35/hour depending on role

Hours: 5-15 hours/week, flexible around classes

 

Why Good for Students:

✅ On campus – no commute

✅ Flexible around class schedule

✅ Understand student commitments

✅ Relevant to studies

✅ Networking with faculty

✅ Resume-building

 

Challenges:

❌ Limited positions available

❌ Competitive to get

❌ Fewer hours than off-campus jobs

❌ May be semester-only

Best For: Students wanting convenience and relevant experience

 

Part-Time vs Casual Employment for Students

 

Casual Employment

Characteristics:

  • No guaranteed hours
  • Hours vary week to week
  • 25% casual loading
  • No paid leave
  • Can decline shifts

Pay Example: $27.50/hour (including 25% loading)

Best For: Students wanting maximum flexibility

 

Part-Time Employment

Characteristics:

  • Guaranteed minimum hours (e.g., 15 hours/week)
  • Consistent schedule
  • Paid annual and sick leave
  • Lower hourly rate (no casual loading)
  • More stable income

Pay Example: $22/hour (no casual loading, but paid leave)

Best For: Students wanting income stability

 

Which is Better for Students?

Choose Casual If:

  • You want maximum flexibility
  • Your class schedule changes each semester
  • You want to work more during holidays, less during exams
  • You prefer higher hourly rate

Choose Part-Time If:

  • You want consistent income
  • Your schedule is stable
  • You value paid sick leave
  • You plan to work long-term

Most Common: Casual employment is more common for students due to flexibility needs.

 

How Much Can Students Earn Part-Time?

 

Weekly Earnings Examples

10 hours/week (Light):

  • $25/hour × 10 hours = $250/week
  • $1,000/month
  • $13,000/year

15 hours/week (Moderate):

  • $25/hour × 15 hours = $375/week
  • $1,500/month
  • $19,500/year

20 hours/week (Standard):

  • $25/hour × 20 hours = $500/week
  • $2,000/month
  • $26,000/year

25 hours/week (Maximum Recommended):

  • $25/hour × 25 hours = $625/week
  • $2,500/month
  • $32,500/year

 

With Penalty Rates (Weekend Work)

20 hours/week including weekends:

  • 10 hours weekday: $25/hour = $250
  • 6 hours Saturday: $37.50/hour = $225
  • 4 hours Sunday: $50/hour = $200
  • Total: $675/week ($35,100/year)

 

Holiday Earnings

Full-time hours during holidays (38 hours/week):

  • 20 hours weekday: $25/hour = $500
  • 10 hours Saturday: $37.50/hour = $375
  • 8 hours Sunday: $50/hour = $400
  • Total: $1,275/week
  • 12 weeks holidays/year = $15,300 from holidays alone

 

How to Balance Work and Study

 

Recommended Work Hours by Study Load

Full-Time Study (4 subjects):

  • Maximum: 15-20 hours/week during semester
  • 25-38 hours/week during holidays

Part-Time Study (2-3 subjects):

  • Maximum: 20-30 hours/week

Research: Studies show working more than 20 hours/week negatively impacts academic performance.

 

Time Management Strategies

  1. Create Weekly Schedule
  • Block out class times
  • Block out study time (2-3 hours per subject per week)
  • Block out work shifts
  • Identify free time
  1. Prioritize Academics
  • Study comes first
  • Work around classes, not vice versa
  • Reduce work hours during exams
  1. Communicate with Employer
  • Provide class timetable at start of semester
  • Request reduced hours during exams (4-6 weeks notice)
  • Be upfront about academic commitments
  1. Use Time Efficiently
  • Study between classes
  • Use commute time for reading
  • Minimize social media
  • Batch similar tasks
  1. Plan Ahead
  • Know assignment due dates
  • Request time off for major assessments
  • Work more during light academic weeks
  1. Take Care of Health
  • Get 7-8 hours sleep
  • Eat properly
  • Exercise
  • Manage stress
  1. Know Your Limits
  • Don’t overcommit
  • It’s okay to reduce hours if struggling
  • Academic success is long-term investment

 

Red Flags You’re Working Too Much

❌ Falling behind in assignments

❌ Missing classes due to tiredness

❌ Grades declining

❌ Constant exhaustion

❌ No time for study

❌ High stress and anxiety

❌ No social life or downtime

Solution: Reduce work hours immediately. Your degree is more valuable long-term than extra income now.

 

Where to Find Part-Time Student Jobs

 

Online Job Boards

Seek.com.au:

  • Filter by “part-time” and “casual”
  • Set location to your area
  • Create job alerts

Indeed.com.au:

  • Comprehensive listings
  • Easy application

StudentVIP.com.au:

  • Student-specific jobs
  • University-focused

Prosple.com:

  • Graduate and student opportunities

 

University Career Services

On-Campus:

  • University career center
  • Job boards
  • Career fairs
  • On-campus job listings

Benefits:

  • Student-friendly employers
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Relevant opportunities

 

Direct Applications

Walk-In:

  • Visit retailers during quiet times
  • Bring printed resume
  • Ask for manager

Online:

  • Company websites
  • Direct application portals

 

Recruitment Agencies

Student-Focused:

  • Drake
  • Frontline
  • Randstad

 

Networking

Word of Mouth:

  • Tell friends and family
  • Ask classmates where they work
  • University social groups

 

Tips for Getting Part-Time Student Job

 

  1. Emphasize Availability

Highlight:

  • Available weekends (essential for most jobs)
  • Available evenings
  • Available during holidays (work more hours)
  • Flexible and accommodating

 

  1. Show Reliability

Emphasize:

  • Punctual and dependable
  • Committed despite being student
  • Mature and responsible

 

  1. Highlight Transferable Skills

Even Without Experience:

  • Teamwork (group projects)
  • Communication (presentations)
  • Time management (balancing study)
  • Problem-solving
  • Computer skills

 

  1. Provide Class Timetable

During Interview:

  • Bring printed class schedule
  • Show you’ve thought about logistics
  • Demonstrate organization

 

  1. Be Honest About Study Commitments

Upfront:

  • Explain you’re a student
  • Mention exam periods
  • Show you’ve planned how to balance both

 

  1. Apply Early in Semester

Timing:

  • Apply in first 2 weeks of semester
  • Before others fill positions
  • Shows initiative

 

  1. Target Student-Friendly Employers

Known for Hiring Students:

  • Major retailers (Woolworths, Coles, Kmart)
  • Fast food chains
  • Cinemas
  • Cafes near universities

 

Student Employment Rights

 

Fair Work Protections

Minimum Wage:

  • Must be paid at least minimum wage for age
  • Penalty rates for weekends/public holidays
  • Casual loading (25%)

Breaks:

  • 10-minute paid break for 4-hour shift
  • 30-minute unpaid meal break for 5+ hour shift

Rosters:

  • Reasonable notice of shifts (usually 1-2 weeks)
  • Can’t be forced to work if unavailable

Termination:

  • Casuals can be terminated with minimal notice
  • Must be paid for all hours worked

 

Tax and Superannuation

Tax File Number:

  • Required for employment
  • Apply at ato.gov.au

Tax-Free Threshold:

  • First $18,200/year tax-free
  • Most students earn below this

Superannuation:

  • Employer must pay 11% super
  • If earning $450+/month

Tax Return:

  • Lodge annual tax return
  • May get refund if tax withheld

 

Common Questions About Student Part-Time Jobs

 

How many hours should students work per week?

Recommended: 10-20 hours during semester, up to 38 hours during holidays. Research shows working more than 20 hours/week negatively impacts academic performance.

 

Can international students work part-time?

Yes, international students on student visas can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester, unlimited during holidays. Check your visa conditions.

 

Do I need to tell my employer I’m a student?

Yes, be upfront about being a student. Student-friendly employers understand and accommodate study commitments. Hiding it creates problems later.

 

What if work conflicts with exams?

Communicate early (4-6 weeks before exams). Request reduced hours or time off. Most employers accommodate if given advance notice.

 

Can I get Youth Allowance while working?

Yes, but income affects payment. You can earn up to ~$524/fortnight before payments reduce. Check Services Australia for current thresholds.

 

Should I work during first semester?

Depends on your adjustment. Many students wait until second semester to start working, allowing time to adjust to university first. Others work from day one successfully.

 

What if my grades are suffering?

Reduce work hours immediately. Your degree is a long-term investment worth far more than short-term income. Talk to your employer about reducing shifts.

 

Conclusion

Part-time work provides Australian students with income, work experience, and valuable skills while pursuing education. The best student jobs offer flexibility (retail, hospitality, tutoring, delivery), reasonable pay ($20-30/hour), and accommodation of academic commitments.

 

Key Takeaways:

✅ Best jobs:

Retail, hospitality, tutoring, fast food, delivery

✅ Recommended hours: 10-20 hours/week during semester

✅ Average pay: $22-28/hour (casual with loading)

✅ Essential: Weekend availability for most positions

✅ Priority: Study comes first – work around classes

✅ Communication: Be upfront about being student

✅ Balance: Don’t work so much that grades suffer

 

Success Factors:

1.Choose student-friendly employer

2.Work 15-20 hours max during semester

3.Prioritize academics over work

4.Communicate class schedule clearly

5.Request reduced hours during exams

6.Be reliable when you do work

7.Use time efficiently

8.Know your limits

Balancing work and study requires discipline, time management, and clear priorities. Choose the right job, work reasonable hours, communicate effectively, and remember that your degree is the long-term investment – work is supplementary income and experience during this phase of life.

 

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