Studying psychotherapy in Australia is inspiring yet financially demanding. Many international students balance tuition fees, placements, and living expenses with part-time work.
Learn more about what is psychotherapy.
Part-time jobs not only ease financial pressure but also build valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and client care—skills directly relevant to psychotherapy practice.
Work Rights for International Students in Australia
If you hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500):
During study periods: Up to 48 hours per fortnight
During breaks: Unlimited hours
On placement: Clinical placement hours in psychotherapy programs do not count toward the 48-hour cap
Explore why study psychotherapy in Australia.
Benefits of Part-Time Work
Financial Support – Covers living costs
Skill Development – Builds adaptability, teamwork, resilience
Professional Exposure – Experience in community or support roles complements psychotherapy training
Networking Opportunities – Connects you with employers and professionals
Work-Life Balance – Carefully chosen roles reduce stress
Common Part-Time Job Options for International Students
1. Retail and Hospitality
Roles: Barista, cashier, sales assistant
Pay: AUD 23–30/hour
2. University Roles
Roles: Library assistant, student ambassador, research support
Pay: AUD 28–40/hour
3. Community Support and NGOs
Roles: Outreach assistant, disability support worker
Pay: AUD 27–38/hour
4. Tutoring and Academic Assistance
Roles: Private tutor in psychology or English
Pay: AUD 30–50/hour
5. Entry-Level Mental Health Support Roles
Roles: Youth support worker, aged care assistant
Pay: AUD 28–40/hour
See more career pathways and job outcomes.
Average Wages in Australia (2025)
Retail/Hospitality: AUD 23–30/hour
Community Services: AUD 27–38/hour
University/Tutoring: AUD 30–50/hour
Mental Health Support: AUD 35–40/hour
Working 15–20 hours per week typically earns students AUD 350–800, enough to support basic living costs.
Balancing Work and Study
Prioritize your timetable around coursework and placements
Communicate with employers about your schedule
Use university career services to find student-friendly jobs
Track hours carefully to avoid exceeding visa limits
Student Visa Compliance
Track work hours every fortnight
Ensure Fair Work Australia standards are met
Avoid illegal cash-in-hand jobs
Breaches of visa conditions can lead to cancellation
Success Stories
Maria (Kenya): Works 12 hrs/week in a community center, gaining counselling experience.
James (India): Café staff + weekend tutoring → strong interpersonal skills.
Lin (China): Research assistant → academic writing and faculty connections.
Build Your Future with Study and Work Opportunities in Australia
Part-time work is more than financial support—it's a pathway to career growth, professional exposure, and cultural integration. For psychotherapy students, community and support roles provide real-world client experience that strengthens employability.
Visit Study Psychotherapy to explore programs, work rights, and long-term career pathways in Australia.
FAQs
Q1: Can psychotherapy students work in mental health roles? Yes, as long as professional registration is not required.
Q2: How do I find part-time jobs? Use Seek, Indeed, university boards, or community postings.
Q3: What if I exceed 48 hours per fortnight? This breaches visa rules and may lead to cancellation.
Q4: Do part-time jobs count toward future careers? Yes, especially in support, tutoring, and community roles.