In a significant policy update, Australia’s Coalition has announced its support for capping international student work rights at 60 hours per fortnight, beginning July 2025. This shift marks a recalibration in immigration and labor policy as the government aims to better balance educational integrity with workforce needs. The announcement comes amid ongoing debates about the impact of student visa work hours on both academic performance and domestic labor markets.
What Does the Coalition Policy Mean for Student Visa Holders?
Currently, international students in Australia are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. The Coalition’s proposal to increase this to 60 hours represents a moderate yet impactful adjustment. While it offers more flexibility to students seeking additional income, it also aims to discourage overworking that could interfere with academic commitments.
According to party spokespeople, the proposed change aligns with recommendations from industry stakeholders and educational institutions, who argue that a 60-hour cap offers a sustainable middle ground. This policy would apply to all new and existing international students beginning from July 1, 2025, pending parliamentary approval.
Key Implications of the 60‑Hour Fortnight Work Cap
The proposed cap is intended to bring clarity and consistency to student visa work hours. Here are some core aspects of the Coalition policy:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Cap | 48 hours per fortnight |
| Proposed Cap (from July 2025) | 60 hours per fortnight |
| Applicability | All international student visa holders |
| Objective | Balance education focus with moderate work opportunities |
| Enforcement Mechanism | Enhanced compliance monitoring by the Department of Home Affairs |
Education providers are expected to reinforce guidelines regarding attendance and coursework performance to ensure academic standards are not compromised. Employers, too, will be under greater scrutiny, with tighter auditing of work logs to prevent labor law violations.
Industry and Institutional Response
Universities and vocational training institutions have generally welcomed the move, citing the potential to improve student welfare without diluting educational outcomes. Many argue that the previous cap of 48 hours was insufficient for students grappling with rising living costs in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
Conversely, some labor unions and policy think tanks express caution. They warn that an increase in allowable work hours might pressure students to prioritize earnings over education, especially if employers expect them to work close to the maximum limit. The Coalition has countered this by stating that stronger enforcement and institutional support systems will prevent such exploitation.
The Bigger Picture: Work Rights and Migration Policy
The Coalition’s backing of this new cap is part of a broader strategy to reset the country’s migration policy. It also follows criticism of the previous government’s temporary removal of work restrictions during the COVID-19 recovery phase, which some say led to exploitation and academic underperformance.
This proposal could also impact how Australia is perceived globally as a study destination. While stricter than the pandemic-era allowances, the 60-hour cap still compares favorably to student work rights in countries like the U.S. or Canada, where similar or more restrictive rules apply. If approved, this change may enhance Australia’s competitiveness in attracting skilled international students looking for academic growth and part-time work opportunities.
Conclusion
With the Coalition proposing a 60-hour fortnightly work cap for international students, Australia is signaling a refined approach to student migration. This policy update attempts to strike a careful balance: empowering students to support themselves financially while preserving the academic focus of their visas. As July 2025 approaches, stakeholders across education, industry, and government will closely monitor the rollout and potential adjustments to ensure it serves its intended goals.
FAQ
What is the proposed change to international student work hours in Australia?
The Coalition has proposed increasing the cap on student visa work hours from 48 to 60 hours per fortnight, effective July 2025.
Who will be affected by the new 60-hour work cap?
All international students holding valid student visas in Australia as of July 1, 2025, will be subject to the updated work rights policy.
Why is the Coalition proposing this change now?
The proposal is part of a broader effort to balance student support with academic integrity and reduce potential abuse of work privileges under student visas.
Will students be allowed to work unlimited hours during semester breaks?
Yes. The proposed cap applies only during study periods. Students will still be permitted to work unlimited hours during official semester breaks.
What happens if a student exceeds the 60-hour limit?
Exceeding the limit may result in visa breaches, which can lead to penalties including visa cancellation. Compliance will be monitored by immigration authorities.
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