Under current regulations, holders of student visas are permitted to work for up to a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during vacations.

The limitations on work must be strictly observed. Failure to do so can lead to prosecution under Australian law and almost certain deportation.

Dependents of an undergraduate student are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week. But there are no restrictions on employment for the dependents of Masters or Doctoral students, who are able to wok normally under the law with the same tax obligation as Australian workers.

Intending students should be aware, however, that the entitlement to work is not a guarantee of finding employment. Work should neither be expected nor relied on.

Australian academic institutions are required by law to report any student to the relevant government authority whose attendance rate drops below 90 per cent. There are a few warnings on this and no concessions are given to this requirement. Students who abuse their right to work are asked to terminate their studies and leave Australia.