The Australian Government has announced that international graduates with eligible qualifications will gain an additional two years of post-study work rights from 1 July 2023. In its statement, the government also revealed that it would be increasing the cap on working hours for international students from 40 hours per fortnight to 48 hours per fortnight from the same date.
The extension of post-study work rights will apply to all holders of a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa who complete their studies in a particular field on or after 1 July 2023. This means that the number of years visa holders can remain in Australia will increase as follows:
- Two years to four years for select bachelor’s degrees
- Three years to five years for select master’s degrees
- Four years to six years for all doctoral qualifications.
This change will come in addition to the existing extra years students can gain on their visas if they live, study and work in regional areas.
@insiderguides It’s been a big breaking news week for international students! Here we break down what you need to know about the new working hour cap and post-study work rights extension #internationalstudents #workinghours #temporarygraduatevisa #485visa #485visaextension ♬ A tropical house that feels Summer vibes – Roa
Eligible qualifications and occupations for extended post-study work rights
To address the ongoing Australian skill shortage, the extended post-study work rights will apply to graduates in in-demand sectors. This skill shortage nearly doubled from 2021-2022 and is continuing into 2023.
To learn more, be sure to consult the comprehensive list of eligible occupations* and the related eligible qualifications. A few examples include:
- Registered nurse – Various specialisations including aged care, disability care, medical practice, mental health, etc.
- Engineer – Various specialisations including software, structural, civil, electrical, environmental, etc.
- Web and systems specialist – Various specialisations including web developer, systems analyst, cyber security analyst, cyber security architect, etc.
- Teacher – Various specialisations including primary school, secondary school, special needs, vocational education, etc.
- Pharmacist – Various specialisations including hospital and retail
- Surgeon – Various specialisations including general, cardiothoracic, neurosurgeon, etc.
- Dental professional – Various specialisations including dental hygienist and dental therapist
*Note: This list is subject to change; the final full list will be published ahead of the implementation date of 1 July 2023.
In an official statement, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said: “Enabling students that gain an education in Australia to stay longer and contribute to our economy benefits us all. We are targeting the skills Australia needs most, including health, teaching, engineering and agricultural fields.”
Speaking to SBS Hindi, Adelaide-based international student, Navsheen Kachru, shared his positive feelings about the decision.
“Extension of work rights after course completion for international students is welcoming news and will solve labour shortage issue currently going on in the country,” he said.
