You can work a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight when your course is in session and unlimited hours when your course is not in session. You cannot undertake work until you have started your course in Australia.
Notes: Work that is a formal registered part of your course is not included in the limit of 40 hours per fortnight.
If you are doing voluntary or unpaid work it is included in the limit of 40 hours per fortnight. A fortnight begins on any Monday and ends on the second following Sunday.
Dependent family can work a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight throughout the year. A week begins on any Monday and ends on the second following Sunday.
Exceptions: Family members of students enrolled in Masters by coursework (subclass 573) can work unlimited hours when the student starts their main course.
Note: Family members cannot undertake work until you have started your course in Australia.
Important: You must also comply with the state and territory laws of Australia. Under all state and territory laws, you cannot work during school hours if you are under the school leaving age, which in most states is 15 years.