International students have the same workplace rights as all other workers in Australia. Knowing your entitlements can help you spot when something isn’t right.
Every worker in Australia needs to get a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement (FWIS) from their boss when they start a new job.
What is the FWIS?
The FWIS provides new employees with information about their conditions of employment, including the national minimum wage.
The FWIS also has information on the National Employment Standards, awards, termination of employment, the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) and much more.
How is the FWIS given?
The FWIS can be given to you before, or as soon as possible after, you start a new job. It can be given to you:
- in person
- by email
- by emailing a link to the FWO’s website
- by mail
- by fax
The FWIS is also available in over 30 languages. You can download a copy of the FWIS in a language other than English from the FWO’s Language help pages.
For more information – contact the FWO
The FWO helps you understand your rights and responsibilities at work, you can:
- visit www.fairwork.gov.au for more information
- contact them on 13 13 94 (or 131 450 for Translating and Interpreting Services)
- submit an enquiry online through My account.
The FWO also has information for you if you’re impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. Visit coronavirus.fairwork.gov.au for regularly updated information, including frequently asked questions and case studies.
If you have an urgent enquiry about your workplace rights and responsibilities, you can contact the FWO on 13 13 94 and select the prompt for the coronavirus hotline.
