Rights and Responsibilities of International Students in Australia

Australia is a popular destination for international students, offering high-quality education, diverse cultures, and a vibrant lifestyle. However, studying in a foreign country comes with a set of rights and responsibilities that students must understand to ensure a successful and safe experience. 

This article outlines the key rights and responsibilities of international students in Australia, with a focus on work rights, protection against exploitation, and where to seek help if needed.

Rights of International Students

  1. Right to Quality Education
  2. Work Rights
    • Fair Work Ombudsman: International students on a student visa are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the study term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. The Fair Work Ombudsman ensures that students receive fair pay and conditions. Students have the right to the same minimum wage as Australian workers, which as of July 1, 2024, is $23.23 per hour.
    • Protection Against Exploitation: The Fair Work Ombudsman also protects international students from workplace exploitation. Students should report any unfair treatment, such as being paid below the minimum wage, working excessive hours, or being subjected to unsafe working conditions.
  3. Protection from Discrimination
    • International students are protected under Australian law (Overseas Students Ombudsman) from discrimination based on their race, religion, nationality, gender, or any other personal characteristic. Discrimination in educational institutions, workplaces, or other settings is illegal, and students have the right to report such incidents.
  4. Consumer Rights
    • International students have the same consumer rights as Australian residents. This includes protection against unfair treatment by businesses, the right to a refund for faulty goods or services, and the right to clear and accurate information about the products they purchase (ACCC commission).
  5. Access to Health Services
    • International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay in Australia. This ensures that students have access to healthcare services when needed.
  6. Right to Seek Help
    • Overseas Students Ombudsman: The Overseas Students Ombudsman (OSO) is an independent body that handles complaints about private education providers. If students experience issues such as unfair treatment, visa problems, or course-related complaints, they can seek assistance from the OSO.

Responsibilities of International Students

  1. Compliance with Visa Conditions
  2. Maintaining Academic Integrity
    • Students are responsible for maintaining academic integrity in their studies. This means avoiding plagiarism, cheating, and any other forms of academic misconduct. Institutions take academic integrity seriously, and breaches can result in severe consequences, including expulsion.
  3. Respecting Australian Laws
    • International students are required to abide by all Australian laws, including road rules, workplace regulations, and criminal laws. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and students should familiarise themselves with local regulations to avoid legal issues.
  4. Paying Tuition Fees on Time
    • It is the student’s responsibility to pay their tuition fees on time according to the schedule set by their education provider. Failure to do so can result in penalties or cancellation of enrollment, which may affect visa status.
  5. Respecting Cultural Diversity
    • Australia is a multicultural society, and international students are expected to respect cultural diversity and contribute to a harmonious community. This includes respecting the cultural practices and beliefs of others, both on and off-campus.
  6. Seeking Help When Needed
    • Students have the responsibility to seek help when they need it, whether it’s academic support, health services, or legal assistance. There are many support services available, and it’s important for students to utilize these resources to ensure their well-being and success.

Conclusion

International students in Australia enjoy a range of rights that protect their welfare, ensure fair treatment in the workplace, and provide access to quality education. However, these rights come with responsibilities that students must uphold to maintain their visa status and have a positive experience in Australia. By understanding and adhering to these rights and responsibilities, international students can make the most of their time in Australia, gaining valuable education and life experiences.

References

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