The Official 2026 Rates
If you are aged 21 or over, you are legally entitled to the National Minimum Wage. In Australia, most student jobs are “Casual,” which includes a higher hourly rate to compensate for not having paid sick leave or annual holidays.
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate (Gross/Before Tax) | Weekly Rate (38 Hours) |
| Full-time / Part-time | $24.95 | $948.10 |
| Casual (Inc. 25% Loading) | $31.19 | N/A |
Note: These are the absolute minimums. Most industries (Hospitality, Retail, Construction) are covered by “Modern Awards” which often set higher base rates, sometimes ranging from $26 to $35 for entry-level roles.
Junior Pay Rates (Under 21)
If you are an international student under the age of 21, your minimum wage may be a percentage of the adult rate:
- 20 years old: ~$24.37 / hour
- 19 years old: ~$20.58 / hour
- 18 years old: ~$17.04 / hour
Work Hour Limits for 2026
The Australian Government strictly enforces work hour caps for Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders.
- 48 Hours per Fortnight: While your course is in session, you cannot exceed 48 hours in any 14-day period (starting on a Monday).
- Unlimited Hours: During official university breaks (summer and winter holidays), you can work as many hours as you like.
- Masters & PhD Exception: If you have commenced a Masters by Research or a Doctoral degree, you generally have unlimited work rights year-round.
3 Things Every Student Must Check on Their Payslip
- Superannuation (12%): In 2026, your employer must pay an additional 12% of your earnings into a Super fund. This is your money, which you can claim back when you leave Australia.
- Penalty Rates: If you work on a Saturday, Sunday, or Public Holiday, you are usually entitled to “Penalties” (e.g., $45–$60 per hour for casuals on Sundays).
- The TFN Declaration: Ensure you have provided your Tax File Number. If you don’t, your employer is forced to take 47% of your pay in tax!
Warning: “Cash in Hand” Jobs
In 2026, some businesses still offer “Cash in Hand” at rates like $15–$20 per hour.The Risk: This is illegal. You lose your insurance, you don’t get Superannuation, and you are being underpaid by at least $11 per hour compared to the legal casual rate. If you are being underpaid, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman—it is free and confidential.
