Working while studying
Know your rights!
There are laws in the Australia to protect employees and ensure fair and safe workplaces for everyone. It doesn’t matter what visa you are on. Here’s what you should know:
1. What type of job do you have?
Your employment contract should tell you whether you are full time, part time, casual, a contractor or self-employed? This will determine your pay rate, hours, leave entitlements and how your employment may end.
2. Are you being paid fairly?
Different types of work have different pay rates. You can find out the minimum pay rate for your job at https://calculate.fairwork.gov.au. If you are unsure whether you are being paid correctly, you can call the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 for information.
3. Do you receive a pay slip each payday?
Every time you get paid, you should get a pay slip within one day. It should show:
- Employer’s name and ABN
- How many hours you worked and your pay rate
- Whether you took any leave
- How much superannuation you were paid
- How much tax was taken out of your pay
Your workplace must be safe and fair.
Workplaces must follow health and safety laws, and treat all employees fairly. You have the right to work without bullying, harassment or discrimination.
If something doesn’t feel right at work, you can find helpful information from the Fair Work Commission at www.fwc.gov.au or call the Legal Aid Helpline on 1800 019 343.