If you want to work in Australia, the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) can help you understand your workplace rights and entitlements, including:
- A minimum wage – In Australia, international students have the same workplace rights as other workers, such as the right to a minimum wage based on the work you do. You can use the FWO’s Pay and Conditions Tool to find out your minimum pay and other entitlements.
- A Fair Work Information Statement and Casual Employment Information Statement – When starting a new job, employers must give you a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement before, or as soon as possible after you start your new job. Employers must also give every new casual employee a Casual Employment Information Statement at the same time.
- Contacting the FWO WITHOUT fear – If you have a question about your workplace rights and entitlements, you can contact the FWO WITHOUT the fear of having your visa cancelled. Your employer can’t cancel your visa, even if you’ve breached your visa conditions. Only the Department of Home Affairs can grant, refuse or cancel visas. For more information, visit www.fairwork.gov.au/internationalstudents.
The FWO’s services are also free and confidential. Visit the FWO at www.fairwork.gov.au, for information about your workplace rights and entitlements, including information available in over 30 different languages at www.fairwork.gov.au/languages.
Did you know?
If you’re working during the festive season, then it’s important to know there are a few public holidays during this period.
In general, you are entitled to be absent from work on a day or a part day that is a public holiday. Full-time and part-time employees who normally work on a public holiday, are entitled to a paid day off work. Casual employees are entitled to an unpaid day off work. Employers may ask you to work on a public holiday, and you can refuse, if it is reasonable to do so. If you work on a public holiday, you may be entitled to penalty rates.
Free webinar for those working during the festive season
The FWO has a free webinar tailored for employees and employers during the festive season. It’s scheduled for Thursday 9 December 2021 at either 9.30am- 10.00am or 6.30pm – 7.00pm AEDT.
