You want a few shifts a week to cover rent and groceries, but you are not sure where to look, what to say or what a “casual” job really means. This guide walks through a practical way to find part-time or casual work around your classes in Melbourne or Brisbane, using official Study Australia and Fair Work Ombudsman information.
Information checked on: 8 November 2026, against the Study Australia and Fair Work Ombudsman websites. Rules and pay rates change, so confirm current details with the official sources below. This is general information only. Evantaa Institute does not provide visa, legal or personalised employment advice, and we cannot promise any job or income.
Know the types of work first
Study Australia explains the main types of work in simple terms. Knowing the difference helps you read job ads and ask the right questions.
| Type | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Full-time | Study Australia describes this as averaging about 38 hours a week. |
| Part-time | Fewer than 38 hours a week, usually with regular hours. |
| Casual | Hours can change from week to week and the employer does not have to offer ongoing work. Study Australia notes casual employees are not entitled to paid leave, and casual work can offer a higher hourly rate to make up for that. |
Step 1: Check your work limits before you apply
International students have rules about how many hours they may work. These come from your visa conditions, not from your employer or from Evantaa. Check your own visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs, and ask a registered migration agent if you need personal advice. Study Australia also reminds international students to confirm their visa status before they start work.
Step 2: Use the support you already have
Study Australia suggests starting close to home. Try these first:
- Your education provider’s support team. Evantaa students can contact Student Services (support@evantaa.edu.au) to ask what help is available. Evantaa says its student support services are free.
- Noticeboards and alumni groups at your place of study.
- Friends, family, peers, clubs and community groups. Many casual jobs are never advertised, so tell people you are looking.
Step 3: Search online and register with agencies
Study Australia lists these job sites: Adzuna, Career One, Explore Jobs, Grad Australia, Seek, Student Job Australia and LinkedIn. It also suggests registering with more than one recruitment agency.
Ideas for trade students
- Search for labouring, site assistant, workshop assistant or supplier-yard roles near your campus or home.
- Ask local builders, cabinet makers and tradespeople whether they take on helpers. Keep the conversation polite and short.
- Keep your safety training current. Our work placement checklist covers what to prepare.
Ideas for business students
- Look for customer service, administration, reception, data entry and retail roles.
- Use your coursework as evidence of skills such as communication, teamwork and using digital tools.
- Build a clear profile with our LinkedIn guide.
Step 4: Get your application ready
- Update your resume using our resume guide.
- Choose one or two people who can speak about you. See how to ask for a reference.
- Practise short answers about your availability, using our interview preparation guide.
- Write down your class timetable so you can state your availability clearly and honestly.
Step 5: Ask the right questions before you say yes
- Is the job casual, part-time or full-time?
- Which award or agreement covers the role, and what is the pay rate?
- How many hours can I expect, and how much notice do I get of my roster?
- Will I be paid by bank transfer with a payslip?
- What training and safety induction will I receive?
Know your rights at work
The Fair Work Ombudsman says visa holders and migrant workers have the same workplace rights and protections as all other employees in Australia. Its advice is free, and it says a visa will not be cancelled just because someone asks for help.
The Fair Work Ombudsman’s minimum wages page explains that most pay rates come from the award covering the industry, and that its Pay and Conditions Tool can calculate the minimum rates, penalties and allowances for your award. Check the live site for current rates, because they change.
Be careful of offers that sound too easy. Be wary of any employer who asks you to pay for a job, or who will not give you a written pay arrangement. Read our guide to free financial counselling and support if money is tight.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between casual and part-time work?
Casual work has hours that can vary week to week with no guarantee of ongoing work. Part-time work usually has regular hours below about 38 a week.
Where can I get help finding work as an Evantaa student?
Contact Student Services at support@evantaa.edu.au and ask what is available. You can also use the job sites and community steps listed above.
How many hours am I allowed to work?
That depends on your visa conditions. Check with the Department of Home Affairs. Evantaa cannot give visa advice.
Who can I ask if I think I am underpaid?
The Fair Work Ombudsman offers free advice to all employees, including visa holders.
Next steps
Pick one step from this guide and do it today: update your resume, message a classmate, or email Student Services. Explore the Evantaa course list to see how our trade and business qualifications could connect to the work you want to do.
Sources
- Study Australia: Finding work while you study
- Study Australia: Preparing for work
- Fair Work Ombudsman: Visa holders and migrants
- Fair Work Ombudsman: Minimum wages
- Department of Home Affairs
- Evantaa Institute: Student Services
Published by the Evantaa Institute Editorial Team. Evantaa Institute (RTO 45866, CRICOS 04025C) does not provide visa, legal or personalised employment advice.