The Australian government has announced an increase in the working hour cap for international students, from 40 to 48 hours per fortnight, effective from 1 July 2023. A two-year extension of post-study work rights will also come into effect from 1 July 2023. The decision to limit work hours for students is aimed at allowing them to shift their focus back to academic learning. Student visa work restrictions were relaxed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and completely removed in January 2022, to allow primary and secondary student visa holders to work an uncapped number of hours. The arrangement will end on 30 June 2023 to allow students to support themselves financially and have sufficient time to concentrate on their degrees. The government has also released a list of occupations and eligible qualifications that will enable graduates to access greater work rights.
