1. How the “Fortnight” is Calculated
The most common mistake students make is misunderstanding what a “fortnight” actually is. In the eyes of the Department of Home Affairs, a fortnight is any period of 14 days starting on a Monday.
- The Rolling Balance: It is not 48 hours per week. You could work 30 hours in Week A, but you would then be limited to only 18 hours in Week B.
- Overlapping Weeks: Because it is calculated on a rolling 14-day basis, you must ensure that any consecutive 14-day block (starting Monday) does not exceed 48 hours total.
- Volunteer Work: Unpaid voluntary work does not count towards your 48-hour limit if it is for a non-profit organization and provides a benefit to the community.
2. When Can You Work Unlimited Hours?
The 48-hour restriction only applies when your “course is in session.” You can work unlimited hours during:
- Official Semester Breaks: The periods between semesters as defined by your university’s academic calendar.
- Research Degrees: If you are enrolled in a Masters by Research or a PhD (Doctoral degree), you have no work hour limits at any time.
- Course Completion: Once you have officially completed your course (usually the date on your completion letter), you can work unlimited hours while waiting for your 485 Graduate Visa to be granted.
3. The 2026 “60-Hour” Proposal Update
As of April 2026, the Australian Government is considering a policy to raise the limit from 48 to 60 hours per fortnight, effective July 1, 2026.
- Current Status: This is a proposal. Until the law officially changes in July, you must stay under 48 hours.
- Why the Change? The increase is intended to help students manage the 2026 cost-of-living increases and fill labor shortages in retail and hospitality.
4. 2026 Compliance Checklist
| Rule Item | The 2026 Requirement |
| Fortnightly Cap | 48 Hours (until June 30, 2026) |
| Start Date | You cannot start work until your course has actually commenced. |
| Course in Session | Includes exam periods and mid-semester breaks. |
| Evidence | Keep a personal log of hours to compare against your payslips. |
5. What Happens if You Breach the Rule?
In 2026, the Department of Home Affairs uses automated data-sharing with the ATO (Tax Office) to spot students who are working too much.
- The Risk: A breach of Condition 8105 can lead to immediate visa cancellation and a 3-year ban from returning to Australia.
- The “Assurance Protocol”: If you are being forced by an employer to work more than 48 hours under threat of reporting you, you are protected. Under the Assurance Protocol, you can report the exploitation to the Fair Work Ombudsman without your visa being cancelled.
