Mygrator - An Ecosystem of Immigration Industry
Helping you succeed in a global workforce.
Welcome to the Study Australia Employability Hub!
You can obtain a degree & a qualification from Australia that is recognised all around the world. Additionally, you will acquire the industry knowledge and current and advanced skills, and global perspective necessary to broaden your horizons and succeed on both a personal and professional level.
You can make the most of your time studying in Australia by taking use of the resources listed below, which will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to increase your employability and job readiness.
Work
What you need to know about the tax and superannuation requirements in Australia.......
In order to work in Australia, you must abide by our severe tax and superannuation requirements. See the list of terms below for an explanation of how they apply to overseas students studying in Australia.
Tax and tax file numbers
In Australia, if you work, earn money or hold an Australian bank account, you must have a tax file number (TFN). A TFN is unique to you and is yours for life.
If you have been studying for less than six months, you may not be eligible for a TFN.
For more information and to apply for a free TFN, visit the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website.
Resident for tax purposes
Even if you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may be a resident for tax purposes. Residents for tax purposes must pay tax in Australia and can claim deductions.
If you have been studying for less than six months, you may not be a resident for tax purposes.
Find out if you are a resident for tax purposes by visiting the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website or by contacting your education institution.
Income Tax
If you qualify as a resident for tax purposes, you are required to pay tax on your Australian income. This is taxed at the same rate as all other Australians.
In Australia, tax is only payable on the amount you earn above $18,200. Anything below this amount is called the tax-free threshold.
For more information about Australia’s tax brackets, visit the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website.
Lodging a tax return
If you are a resident for tax purposes or earn an income while living in Australia, it is likely you will need to lodge a tax return or non-lodgement advice with the Australian Tax Office (ATO).
For more information about lodging a tax return, visit the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website.
Superannuation
Superannuation, commonly known as ‘super’, is a type of retirement savings in Australia.
If you work in Australia, your employer must make superannuation contributions on your behalf. When you leave Australia, you may be eligible to claim that super back as a departing Australian superannuation payment (DASP) .
For more information about superannuation, visit the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website
Staying for less than six months
If you are enrolled in a course that lasts for a maximum of six months and you intend to leave Australia at the conclusion of your course, it is likely that you are a non-resident for tax purposes and do not need to adhere to Australia’s tax and superannuation obligations.
For more information, visit the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website.
Working in Australia after you graduate
If you're interested in staying in Australia to work after you graduate, you'll need to apply for a new working visa before your current student visa expires. As a graduated international student, you may be eligible:
For the Post-Study Work stream of the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) if you have completed a Bachelor, Masters or Doctoral degree at an Australian institution.
To submit an expression of interest through the Australian Government's SkillSelect program seeking approval to stay in Australia as a professional worker.
For state or territory government nominations for skilled and business migration.
For more information on working in Australia after you graduate, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Learn everything you need to know about the options for industrial and volunteer work available in Australia while you are a student, as well as how to get ready for success.
For overseas students who are studying in Australia, volunteering can have a variety of social and community advantages.
Volunteering means donating your time to help an organisation or person in need, for no financial gain. This can take place through a charity, not-for-profit, community organisation or even through your education institution to help build your skills and become job ready.
Volunteering can:
Help expand your work experience portfolio.
Improve your mental health and wellbeing.
Grow your skills and knowledge in a certain field.
Build social connections and interpersonal skills.
Make new friends.
Benefits of volunteering
There are a range of benefits from choosing to volunteer while completing your study in Australia.
Connect with others
Feel part of a community through volunteering. You can meet new people, increase your social circle and build relationship skills while studying in Australia.
Advance your career
Volunteering can provide international students with valuable work experience and important professional opportunities, without a full-time commitment.
Most volunteering programs provide extensive training and can offer internship pathways and other paid working opportunities to international students.
Volunteering also allows you to work with, and learn from, a diverse group of professionals who can help you gain valuable hands-on experience.
Find purpose and fulfilment
By donating your time to a person, cause or organisation, volunteering can be extremely rewarding for international students.
Helping other people in your spare time can give you a sense of fulfilment and purpose as you explore your interests and passions while studying in Australia.
Mental and physical wellbeing
Volunteering can support a range of mental and physical wellbeing benefits.
Volunteering is often a very social activity. Being around and helping other people goes a long way to improving mood, movement and social enrichment.
Visit the Go Volunteer website if you're interested in learning more about where to volunteer and how to discover the best volunteer opportunity for you.
Expand your work experience and prepare for success through these volunteering opportunities.
Expand your work experience through volunteer work and internships
There are also charities and non-government organisations which offer volunteer work for students - a great way to meet people, gain hands-on work experience and contribute to the community.
For more information, start here: govolunteer.com.au.
For volunteer opportunities in each state and territory visit:
Australian Capital Territory (Canberra, ACT) - Volunteering and Contact ACT
New South Wales (NSW) - The Centre for Volunteering NSW
Northern Territory (NT) - Volunteering SA & NT
Queensland (QLD) - Volunteering Queensland
South Australia (SA) - Volunteering SA & NT
Tasmania (TAS) - Volunteering Tasmania
Victoria (VIC) - Volunteering Victoria
Western Australia (WA) - Volunteering WA
The majority of educational institutions give a variety of volunteer, internship, and employment options. To help you establish your own firm, several towns and states also create and administer internship programmes or student entrepreneurship initiatives.
These programmes are summarised in Austrade's Innovation in Employability report, which also includes several outstanding success tales.
Austrade's Innovation in Employability report summarises these programs and shares some great success stories.
International students can connect directly with employers in Australia and internationally to grow post-study employment prospects through relevant industry experience opportunities.
The Australian Government and all Australian states and territories have partnered to deliver a Study Australia Industry Engagement Program (SAIEP), A 2-week virtual industry experience program, bringing diverse student teams,from across the country, into real industry projects. Click here for more information on eligibility and application information.
“Make sure you also check out links to your state or territory study body. These are state government agencies that specifically look after international education programs and students,” she explains.
She also suggests consulting your institution’s careers support service. Ask if they offer any employability programs and/or virtual internships you can apply for.
We spoke to Practera Programs Manager, Hope Dolino, to outline everything you need to know about virtual internships as an international student.
You’ve probably heard of internship programs before. But when you hear the word ‘intern’, what do you picture? Is it an eager young worker running errands, taking notes in meetings and getting coffee for the top bosses? That may still be the case for some internships. But for many students, especially international students studying in Australia, the reality is different.
In 2021, virtual internships are the new normal. These remote work opportunities allow students and graduates to grow their skills and make new connections. Best of all, you can do it from anywhere in the world.
Eager to learn more about virtual internships? In this guide, we outline everything you need to know: what they are, where to find them and how to prepare for them.
We spoke to Hope Dolino, programs manager at Practera. An online learning platform, Practera fosters job skill development and career preparation. Hope shares her expert insight to answer all of your questions about virtual internships.
What are virtual internships?
A virtual internship is a type of work placement in which students perform tasks and deliver projects online. Their employers offer collaboration and feedback online as well. Because these internships are online, students can usually participate from anywhere in the world.
According to Hope, virtual internships use a variety of online tools, “such as email, Zoom, project management apps and phone calls”.
She also explains that there are different types of virtual internships.
“There are those that focus on building skills in a chosen field,” she says. “There are also those that help to enhance employability skills that are essential across industries.”
What are the benefits of virtual internships?
No matter what type of virtual internship you choose, you will be able to develop a range of new skills.
“There is so much to gain from doing virtual internships,” says Hope.
First, virtual internships allow you to get local experience from anywhere in the world. You’ll have the chance to work with a local Australian company and add that to your CV. Such experience will be a major asset if you plan to work in Australia in the future. The best part? You’ll gain all that experience without having to leave home.
You’ll also have the opportunity to develop a wide range of employability and life skills. Hope lists adaptability, problem-solving and teamwork as some of the most useful.
Even though these internships are virtual, you’ll still “establish professional connections and form alliances,” explains Hope. She adds that virtual internships allow you to learn from professional mentors in your field, many of whom you wouldn’t be able to access in person.
When you complete a virtual internship, you'll also get digital badges and/or electronic certificates. These act as your proof of engagement. Hope recommends adding these to your LinkedIn profile to show off your practical work experience.
“With the right tools and support, students can gain as much from virtual internships as face-to-face internships,” says Hope. “These experiences are also equally valued by employers.”
Where can I find virtual internships?
If you’re wondering where to search for virtual internships, Hope has a long list of resources to get you started.
“Make sure you check out links to your state or territory study body. These are state government agencies that specifically look after international education programs and students,” she explains.
She also suggests consulting your institution’s careers support service. Ask if they offer any employability programs and/or virtual internships you can apply for.
In addition, you can reach out to external organisations, such as Practera, to see if they have programs available for you. You can visit their website or email them to seek assistance. In fact, the Australian Government and all Australian states and territories have partnered with Practera to deliver a Study Australia Industry Experience Program (SAIEP): See below.
How can I prepare myself for virtual internships?
Want to improve your chances of getting a virtual internship? Hoping to walk in on your first day as prepared as possible? There are several steps you can take to help you achieve these things.
According to Hope, the first step is diversifying your abilities.
“Employers are looking for graduates with a diverse set of skills,” she explains. “In The Future of Jobs Report 2020, published by the World Economic Forum, some of the top skills highlighted were service orientation, problem-solving, collaboration, innovation, cultural consciousness and leadership. This is a good starting point to help students reflect on skills they need to improve to build their personal employability.”
Since virtual internships are online, you’ll also want to boost your digital literacy. Students and graduates need to be technologically adept to thrive in this environment. This is especially important as we see an increase in working from home in the global workforce.
To build these skills, take online courses through sites like LinkedIn Learning or MasterClass. You can also get in touch with Hope and the rest of the team at Practera for further guidance.
Volunteering is a great way for international students to meet new people, learn new skills and make a difference. Here’s how you can do it from home.
As an international student, you’ve got ambitions both in and outside of the classroom. Inside the classroom, you’ll likely want to learn as much as you can and do well in your course. But what about outside the classroom? Are you hoping to help others less fortunate than yourself? Do you want to make new connections and gain practical life experience? Are you looking for ways to make a difference?
If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, then volunteering could be the perfect fit for you!
Of course, if you’re an international student studying from overseas, volunteering roles in Australia aren’t possible at the moment. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. In fact, there are so many fulfilling ways you can volunteer from the comfort of your own home.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about volunteering. We'll explain why it's important, its benefits and how you can do it remotely.
Why volunteer?
Volunteering has a long list of benefits. First, it is great for your mental health. Acts of generosity release ‘feel-good’ chemicals in our brains such as oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin. The warm feeling you get from these chemicals is sometimes known as the ‘helper’s high’. Research has found that people who volunteer have better mental wellness. One study found that those who volunteer report higher levels of satisfaction with their lives and health. According to Head to Health, volunteering can also reduce anxiety and depression.
Another perk of volunteering is the social connections you’re able to make. When you volunteer (even online), you’ll meet lots of new people, from supervisors to fellow volunteers. These people will become your support network and provide you with a sense of belonging. Plus, you never know where these relationships could take you. You may end up meeting your new best friend or a future business partner!
Volunteering can also teach you many skills that are valuable in the workforce. The exact skills you’ll learn will depend on your role, but you can be sure they’ll come in handy. Some examples of the skills you may gain include customer service, communications, marketing and sales, adaptability and much more. Volunteering can also help you develop a positive attitude, which is an asset in any workplace, in any industry.
Most importantly, volunteering is an amazing way to give back to the community. Going out of your way to make a difference is one of the most compassionate and empathetic things you can do. This is not only fulfilling for you, it can also help those less fortunate when they need it most.
Where to volunteer online
By now, you’ll understand the benefits of volunteering. But you’re probably wondering where and how you can volunteer in Australia, including from outside of Australia and online. Fortunately, there are many online volunteer roles you can fill from anywhere.
Not sure where to start? We’ve found you some of the best websites featuring online/remote volunteer positions:
● SEEK Volunteer – This volunteer posting platform is an extension of the job marketplace site SEEK. You can search for volunteer positions using filters based on industry, type of work and the required time commitment. You can also use a filter to only see online or remote positions, making it even easier to find the right role for you.
● Volunteering Australia/GoVolunteer – GoVolunteer is an initiative of Volunteering Australia. It is a national database where people can find volunteering opportunities around the country. It also allows you to use an online/remote filter, which makes your search even simpler.
● Vollie – Vollie is a platform that specialises in virtual volunteering. They work to advance volunteering online, from anywhere in the world. When you join this site, you’ll be connected to a network of over 900 not-for-profits, charities and social organisations across 16 countries.
Each Australian state/territory has its own volunteering organisation. These offer both in person and online volunteer positions. Check out the links below.
● Volunteering South Australia & Northern Territory
With the help of these resources, your generosity will transcend global borders in ways you may never have imagined.
Volunteering is a great way for international students to meet new people, learn new skills and make a difference. Here’s how you can do it from home.
As an international student, you’ve got ambitions both in and outside of the classroom. Inside the classroom, you’ll likely want to learn as much as you can and do well in your course. But what about outside the classroom? Are you hoping to help others less fortunate than yourself? Do you want to make new connections and gain practical life experience? Are you looking for ways to make a difference?
If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, then volunteering could be the perfect fit for you!
Of course, if you’re an international student studying from overseas, volunteering roles in Australia aren’t possible at the moment. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. In fact, there are so many fulfilling ways you can volunteer from the comfort of your own home.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about volunteering. We'll explain why it's important, its benefits and how you can do it remotely.
Why volunteer?
Volunteering has a long list of benefits. First, it is great for your mental health. Acts of generosity release ‘feel-good’ chemicals in our brains such as oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin. The warm feeling you get from these chemicals is sometimes known as the ‘helper’s high’. Research has found that people who volunteer have better mental wellness. One study found that those who volunteer report higher levels of satisfaction with their lives and health. According to Head to Health, volunteering can also reduce anxiety and depression.
Another perk of volunteering is the social connections you’re able to make. When you volunteer (even online), you’ll meet lots of new people, from supervisors to fellow volunteers. These people will become your support network and provide you with a sense of belonging. Plus, you never know where these relationships could take you. You may end up meeting your new best friend or a future business partner!
Volunteering can also teach you many skills that are valuable in the workforce. The exact skills you’ll learn will depend on your role, but you can be sure they’ll come in handy. Some examples of the skills you may gain include customer service, communications, marketing and sales, adaptability and much more. Volunteering can also help you develop a positive attitude, which is an asset in any workplace, in any industry.
Most importantly, volunteering is an amazing way to give back to the community. Going out of your way to make a difference is one of the most compassionate and empathetic things you can do. This is not only fulfilling for you, it can also help those less fortunate when they need it most.
Where to volunteer online
By now, you’ll understand the benefits of volunteering. But you’re probably wondering where and how you can volunteer in Australia, including from outside of Australia and online. Fortunately, there are many online volunteer roles you can fill from anywhere.
Not sure where to start? We’ve found you some of the best websites featuring online/remote volunteer positions:
● SEEK Volunteer – This volunteer posting platform is an extension of the job marketplace site SEEK. You can search for volunteer positions using filters based on industry, type of work and the required time commitment. You can also use a filter to only see online or remote positions, making it even easier to find the right role for you.
● Volunteering Australia/GoVolunteer – GoVolunteer is an initiative of Volunteering Australia. It is a national database where people can find volunteering opportunities around the country. It also allows you to use an online/remote filter, which makes your search even simpler.
● Vollie – Vollie is a platform that specialises in virtual volunteering. They work to advance volunteering online, from anywhere in the world. When you join this site, you’ll be connected to a network of over 900 not-for-profits, charities and social organisations across 16 countries.
Each Australian state/territory has its own volunteering organisation. These offer both in person and online volunteer positions. Check out the links below.
● Volunteering South Australia & Northern Territory
With the help of these resources, your generosity will transcend global borders in ways you may never have imagined.
As an international student working in Australia, you have the same protections as any Australian in the workplace.
Australia's workplace laws and regulations protect the rights of all workers, including international students working part-time on a student visa. These laws are designed to ensure you:
are paid at least the minimum wage and superannuation;
are protected against unfair dismissal;
are entitled to leave, breaks and rest periods;
and have a safe and healthy work environment.
Download the fact sheet and checklist (PDF 304.2KB) to help you get ready to work while you study.
As an international student working in Australia, you have the same protections as any Australian in the workplace. Here are some things you need to know.
Your pay: Australia has a minimum wage. You must be paid at least this amount – it’s the law!
Paying tax: If you’re working in Australia, you might need to pay tax depending on how much you earn. Get a Tax File Number (TFN) before starting work. Give your TFN to your boss to make sure you do not pay more tax than you should. Only apply for a TFN once – it is yours for life!
Payslips: In Australia, you must get a payslip within one working day of getting paid. Normally, workers get paid weekly, fortnightly (every two weeks) or monthly. The payslip is an important document.
Work hours: Remember – as an international student you can work up to 40 hours every two weeks during term time, and unlimited hours during your holiday breaks. It is important you keep to this limit – it is what you agreed to when you were given your student visa.
Casual work: In Australia, you will find many casual roles. In casual work, you don’t have a fixed number of hours every week. This means you can manage your own time better.
Tax File Number: You need a Tax File Number (TFN) to work in Australia. Apply at the Australian Taxation Office.
Superannuation: As a temporary resident working in Australia, your employer must, by law, make superannuation contributions for you if you are eligible. When leaving Australia, you may be able to get back your superannuation payment (DASP) if you meet the requirements. Find out more at the Australian Taxation Office.
Workers' Compensation: Australian law means your employer must have insurance which protects you in case you are hurt or get sick at work. If this happens, the insurance (called Workers' Compensation) may pay for your medical treatment or your wages until you can work again.
Find out more about the role of the Australian Government's Fair Work Ombudsman in helping protect your rights.
Australia is a great place to study and work. But, sometimes you might notice something at work that feels wrong. It may be a sign that your work rights are at risk.
As an international student, you have rights in the workplace. These rights deserve to be protected. Here are some warning signs to be aware of.
You get paid in food and housing
It is illegal for employers to offer food or housing in place of money. Free food is fine but only if it is on top of your pay.
Do not accept other forms of payment. Tell your employer you must be paid money for your work.
You are asked to give back some of your pay
If an employer pays you the correct, legal amount and then asks you to give some of your pay back in cash, this is a "cashback scheme". This is not allowed.
Sometimes you may accidentally break something at work, customers may leave without paying, or the cash registers are short. Employers can't take money out of your pay to cover this.
Do not let employers take money for breakages or theft. Employers are only allowed to take money out of your pay if you agree to it, if the agreement is written down and you benefit from it.
Do not give back money in a cashback scheme. If you have paid back money like this, it is considered a deduction and you are entitled to get the money back.
You do not get your payslips
This means you have no record of the hours you work and how much you get paid.
Make sure you always receive a payslip (hard copy or electronic) within one working day of getting paid.
You are asked to apply for an ABN
An ABN is an Australian Business Number. Generally, you need this if you are working for yourself.
Always check if you really need an ABN. For jobs where you report to a boss or manager, you need a TFN – a Tax File Number instead.
If you see any of these warning signs, talk to your boss or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help. There is free advice in multiple languages for anyone working in Australia. Phone - 13 13 94 | Online - www.fairwork.gov.au
Download and print the 'Are your work rights safe - warning signs' poster, flyer or diary insert. Available in A3 (PDF 2.3MB), A4 (PDF 3MB) and A5 (PDF 1.5MB) sizes.
State and Territory workplace assistance
If you are having trouble at work but are unsure what help is available, the state or territory flyer below describes the services they offer.
Conversation starter
Having a conversation with your employer about your workplace rights can be a hard thing to do, but it doesn’t have to be. This short animation and flyer can help you prepare for difficult conversations.
Download the conversation starters (PDF 520.3KB) flyer for help.
Things you should know
All workers in Australia are covered by the following laws, even those on a temporary visa.
Tax File Number: You need a Tax File Number (TFN) to work in Australia. Apply at the Australian Taxation Office.
Superannuation: As a temporary resident working in Australia, your employer must, by law, make superannuation contributions for you if you are eligible. When leaving Australia, you may be able to get back your superannuation payment (DASP) if you meet the requirements. Find out more at the Australian Taxation Office.
Workers' Compensation: Australian law means your employer must have insurance which protects you in case you are hurt or get sick at work. If this happens, the insurance (called Workers' Compensation) may pay for your medical treatment or your wages until you can work again.
The office of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) is an independent Federal Government agency. It helps employers and employees, including international students, understand their rights and responsibilities under Australian workplace laws.
Get to know the FWO
The office of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) is an independent government agency. It helps employers and employees understand their rights and responsibilities underAustralian workplace laws. It also works with you to resolve workplace issues. All its services are free!
What the FWO can do for you
The FWO is here to listen and to help. It can:
give you accurate information on your work rights including rates of pay
offer advice and support on workplace issues
help you resolve workplace issues.
Refer to the FWO's fact sheet for more information on how they can help you.
The FWO helps international students
International students have the same work rights as all workers in Australia. The FWO gives advice and support to all workers in Australia, including international students. It is safe for you to reach out to the FWO if you need help. You can get general advice from the FWO or report issues without giving your name, for example, by using the FWO's anonymous reporting tool at www.fairwork.gov.au/tipoff.
You won’t lose your visa by talking to the FWO
Your employer can't cancel your visa. Only the Department of Home Affairs can grant, refuse or cancel visas. It’s not the FWO’s job to check your visa. If you have breached your visa (like working too many hours), you can still get help from the FWO. In these situations, the Department of Home Affairs usually won't cancel your visa under the Assurance protocol.
If you want, the FWO can also share your information with the Department of Home Affairs, who generally won’t cancel your visa if there is evidence your workplace rights have been breached.
FWO’s services are available in many languages
Language is not a problem when contacting the FWO. You can access their services in different languages – all for free.
How to contact the FWO
It’s easy! Just call 13 13 94 or visit their website at www.fairwork.gov.au.
Helpful resources and links
Visit www.fairwork.gov.au/internationalstudents for more information on working in Australia as an international student.
Download the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) (PDF 727KB) flyer to learn how they can support you with any concerns about your workplace rights.
Watch this short video on working in Australia. It’s available in many languages.
Download the free Record my Hours app to keep track of your working hours. You can also keep other work-related information such as your roster using the app. This app is also available in 18 different languages.
Download the Record my Hours app at www.fairwork.gov.au/app.
Use the PACT Calculator (Pay and Conditions Tool) to find your correct pay rate and other entitlements at work.
Ref:-https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/english/work/know-your-rights