Working in Tasmania

Many international students find employment in Tasmania while they are studying. This may be unskilled, casual or part-time work which can assist students in broadening their English language and knowledge about Tasmania. Work is not guaranteed and students should not expect to fund their studies and living costs through employment.

The information contained on this page is a guide only - it will be each student's own responsibility to seek and arrange work.

BEFORE YOU START

Students need to apply to the Australian Department of Immigration (DIMA) for permission to work. The fee is A$60 (at June 2006). A work permit for a student means :

• you may work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during semester
  
  
• you may work unlimited hours during recognised holiday periods.

If you breach your work permit conditions your student visa may be cancelled.

OBTAINING WORK

Important aspects in obtaining employment include

• An updated resume or Curriculum Vitae, with references from past employers and academic transcripts
  
  
• Personal presentation, grooming and performance at interviews.

For many positions, employers will prefer candidates with strong English language skills.

For advice on writing a CV/resume and covering letter for a job application, go to mycareer.com.au

Many TAFE Tasmania courses also include units about job seeking and CV writing.

AUSTRALIAN TAXES AND SUPERANNUATION CONTRIBUTIONS

You will be required to obtain a Tax File Number if you intend to work. You may also be required to make superannuation contributions, which you may be able to access when you leave Australia. Please refer to the Australian Taxation Office at www.ato.gov.au

Rates of pay for casual part-time employment vary depending on your age, experience, qualifications, duties and other factors. You can expect to pay about 30% income tax and you may be entitled to a tax rebate.

USEFUL INFORMATION AND LINKS

The following sources and strategies may assist with searching for part-time work -

• Employment notice boards at TAFE Tasmania campuses advertise ongoing casual job vacancies, including student staffing for special events and festivals in Tasmania.
  
  
• Personal contacts, other students, teachers, and 'door knocking' may also assist
  
  
• The Mercury newspaper (Hobart) and The Examiner newspaper (Launceston)

• Click here for The Australian Jobsearch page on Tasmania
  
  
• Click here for seasonal fruit and vegetable picking opportunities in Tasmania
  
  
• Some other job sites for Tasmania are
  
  http://www.tasmanianjobs.com/
  
  http://mycareer.com.au/jobs/tasmania/