Australia Student Work Hours: 48 to 60 Hours per Fortnight (2025–2026 Update)

International students in Australia often ask one big question: “How many hours can I work while studying?”
Right now, the official rule is clear — but there is also discussion about a possible increase.

This blog explains the current student work rights, what the proposed 60 hours per fortnight change means, and how students can stay compliant while managing living costs.

Current Rule: 48 Hours per Fortnight (Student Visa Subclass 500)

If you hold a Student visa (subclass 500), you can generally work:

• Up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session

• Unlimited hours during official study breaks/holidays

A fortnight = any 14-day period, not “two calendar weeks” in a simple way. One common method used by universities is Monday–Sunday counting (your provider may guide you on how they track it).

What’s Being Proposed: 60 Hours per Fortnight From 1 July 2026

You may have heard news that student work limits could increase to 60 hours per fortnight.

What’s important is this:

• This is not currently the law.

• A widely referenced proposal suggests increasing the cap by 12 hours (from 48 to 60) with a proposed start date of 1 July 2026.

So for now, students should continue to follow the 48 hours/fortnight rule during study periods until the government formally changes the visa condition.

Why the Work Hours Increase Is Being Discussed

While different stakeholders have different views, the discussion is often linked to:

• Rising cost of living for students (rent, food, transport)

• Workforce demand in sectors like hospitality, retail, care, and logistics

• Helping students gain work experience alongside study

Regardless of policy debates, your safest approach is: follow the current legal limit and track hours carefully.

What 60 Hours Could Mean for Students (If Approved)

If a 60-hour cap is introduced, it could mean:

• More earning capacity during study periods

• Better ability to cover living expenses

• Potentially more risk of study impact if work hours become too high

Remember: A student visa’s primary purpose remains study. Working excessive hours can affect attendance, progress, and overall compliance.

How to Avoid Breaching Your Student Visa Work Condition

Here are simple best practices:

1) Track Your Hours Every Fortnight

Use a notes app or spreadsheet to record:

• Shift times

• Total hours

• Total hours across multiple employers

2) Understand “In Session”

Your course is typically “in session” during teaching weeks, including exam periods (check your provider’s academic calendar).

3) Know Your Workplace Rights

International students have workplace protections like minimum pay, payslips, and fair conditions. If something feels wrong, you can seek help.

FAQ: Student Work Rights in Australia

Can I work 60 hours per fortnight now?

No. The official rule remains 48 hours per fortnight during study periods (unless you have a specific exemption).

Do I get unlimited hours during semester breaks?

Yes, during official breaks/holidays, student visa holders can typically work unlimited hours.

Where can I check my exact visa conditions?

You can check visa conditions through official Home Affairs channels and your visa details/conditions pages.

Key Takeaway

• Current rule: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods

• Discussion/proposal: 60 hours per fortnight from 1 July 2026 (not confirmed as law yet)

• Best advice: Follow the current condition, track hours, and prioritise study.

Need Help With Student Visa Compliance?

Advice Education & Visa Services (AEVS) provides education counselling and student visa assistance. Where migration advice is required.