Looking for a part-time or casual job on the Sunshine Coast while you complete your studies? Great choice! Having a job while you study is a great way to show potential employers you can juggle various responsibilities – and a little extra money never hurts either! Plus, by immersing yourself in the Australian workplace, you’ll meet new people and get a feel for Australia’s vibrant culture.
However, if you’re seeking a job on the Sunshine Coast, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Read on for your full guide to finding student jobs on the Sunshine Coast.
Understanding your work rights
As an international student, it’s important to understand your working rights in Australia.
As of 1 July 2023, international students are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight.
As an international student, you are also entitled to the same minimum wage and superannuation contributions as Australian citizens.
Australia has an independent body called the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO), which can assist you with work laws and ensure you aren’t being treated unfairly. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your working situation, the FWO is a great resource.
By being aware of your working rights and seeking support when needed, you can ensure you’re not taken advantage of.
Popular student jobs on the Sunshine Coast
In recent years, the Sunshine Coast has become a hub of tourism and activity. In fact, a new job hosting site – the Sunshine Coast Jobs Hub – has garnered over 1,000 job listings since its launch in 2022.
With the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane approaching, there will be even more opportunities arising on the Sunshine Coast.
According to the Sunshine Coast Jobs Hub, the five most popular industries in the region are as follows:
- Hospitality, Travel and Tourism
- Trades and Services
- Health, Medical and Pharmaceutical
- Retail
- Education, Childcare and Training
Many roles across these industries are experiencing skills shortages, meaning they are critically understaffed. So, if you’re looking for casual or part-time jobs on the Sunshine Coast, these industries are a great place to start your search.
Across these industries, the Hub states that the following are the 10 most sought-after roles on the Sunshine Coast:
- Program Events and Social Media Coordinator
- Customer Services – Banking
- Glazier
- Ranger
- Contact Centre Manager / Team Lead
- Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
- Surveyor
- Commercial Attendant
- Support Officer
- Retail Team Member
Where to find student jobs on the Sunshine Coast
As mentioned, the Sunshine Coast Jobs Hub is an excellent, region-specific platform that’s great for finding localised listings in a variety of different industries. A recent addition to this suite of tools is the Sunshine Coast Student Jobs Hub. Here, you’ll find a variety of work opportunities, apprenticeships and traineeships, casual jobs, internships, volunteering roles and more. Students and graduates can not only use the platform to explore the latest job opportunities, but they can also search featured jobs across the Sunshine Coast’s trending industries, career pathways in growth and skills needed.
You can also look for part-time and casual jobs on the Sunshine Coast, with some of the most popular being SEEK, Indeed and LinkedIn.
Your education provider may even offer workplace training as part of its teaching model. For instance, the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) offers practical experience for its students through the Work Integrated Learning program, which includes internships, placements, field experience and industry projects. These opportunities are included in many degrees and can help you form industry connections while you’re still at university.
When looking for student jobs on the Sunshine Coast, simply going into a venue and handing in a resume can be a simple yet effective tactic. It’s a great way to meet employers directly and make a good impression. Just remember to visit during off-hours to avoid inconveniencing the staff at the venue.
Seeking employment support on the Sunshine Coast
Education providers like UniSC and TAFE Queensland understand that finding a job while you’re studying can seem daunting. That’s why they offer employability services for their students.
These services can help you understand Australia’s workforce, how to make yourself more employable, where to look for student jobs on the Sunshine Coast, and identify interests and skills.
Study bodies like Study Queensland and Study Sunshine Coast are also there to help, offering resources to students to aid in career planning and job searching.
By connecting with student hubs, you can develop your skills, search for jobs and volunteer opportunities, and receive individualised guidance and support.
Remember: there’s a lot of help out there – you just have to look for it!
Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.
