Extended Post-Study Work Rights Announced for International Graduates in Australia

Extended Post-Study Work Rights Announced for International Graduates in Australia

The Australian government has announced that international students who graduate from an Australian higher education provider with certain qualifications will be granted an additional two years of post-study work rights. This applies to a wide range of eligible qualifications in areas of skills shortage such as health, teaching, engineering, and agriculture.

This announcement is particularly advantageous for students who have already completed or are planning to pursue their studies at South Australian institutions, as the existing extra year of post-study work rights has been retained. Starting from July 1, 2023, eligible South Australian students will have increased post-study work rights as follows:

• Select Bachelor degrees: four years (+ one additional year)
• Select Masters degrees: five years (+ one additional year)
• All Doctoral degrees: six years (+ one additional year)

To learn more, including the list of eligible qualifications and occupations, check out the Government media release, at this link.

Changes to International Student Work Hours

Effective from July 1, 2023, international students’ work hours will be reintroduced while they are studying, capped at 48 hours per fortnight. However, students will still be able to work unlimited hours during their holiday breaks from study.

During the pandemic, these restrictions were relaxed and completely lifted in January 2022 to address workforce shortages, allowing primary and secondary student visa holders to work beyond the usual 40-hour limit. However, this exemption will expire on 30 June 2023.

The reinstatement of work restrictions is aimed at ensuring that student visa holders can prioritize their Australian education and qualification while still being able to support themselves financially, gain work experience, and meet the needs of Australia’s workforce.

To get more details, check with an MWT counselor today!