Working in the Northern Territory (NT) while you study allows you to support your living expenses, connects you to other people and helps you to improve your English skills.
To address workforce shortages across Australia, student visa work hours have been temporarily relaxed. This is for all ongoing students, as well as new arrivals. Students are also able to work before their course of study commences and for more than 40 hours per fortnight in any sector of the economy. These temporary measures remain in place until 1 July 2023.
From 1 July 2023, work restrictions for student visa holders will be re-introduced and capped at the increased rate of 48 hours per fortnight. This ensures that student visa holders are able to focus on obtaining a quality Australian education and qualification, while remaining able to support themselves financially, gain valuable work experience, and contribute to Australia’s workforce needs.
For more information, go to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
The International Education Association of Australia provides an online guide that tells you everything you need to know when looking for a job, like:
- seeking out work opportunities
- having a competitive resume
- approaching businesses for work
- mastering job interviews
- knowing your work-rights.
To check out the online guide, go to the International Education Association of Australia website.
Find links to recruitment agencies and job websites in the Australia's Northern Territory.
Part-time and full-time work
As an international student, you can seek part-time and casual employment. Darwin has low unemployment and businesses are frequently looking for part-time employees. These may include retail, hospitality, childcare, aged care and office administration.
Internships
You can also speak to an employer you want to work for about employing you as an intern. Taking up an internship can provide you with 'hands-on' work experience in a workplace aligned to your academic studies.
Social media marketing
View the video transcript of the international student internship at Jape Furnishing Superstore video.
Master of Business Administration
View the video transcript of the international student internship at SEALS video.
Volunteering
Another opportunity to get work experience in Australia's Northern Territory is to volunteer your skills and time. Volunteering is not paid but is a great way to establish work experiences, improve your language skills, and it can help you to grow your network. Volunteering could provide you with references need to find a job late on. For opportunities, go to the Volunteering NT website.