Work…And Study Too

Many students combine part time employment with studying. Here are a few things to consider…

Remember: Some courses have compulsory attendance requirements. Even if not compulsory, students are seriously disadvantaged if they miss lectures, tutorials or ‘pracs.’

First Years

If possible, take time to get used to university first before seeking work. It takes additional time in first semester to find your way around the system and to get an understanding of expectations and your particular study needs. It’s good to be able to spend as much time as possible on campus, particularly during first semester. A full time study load is seen as the equivalent of a full time job irrespective of the number of direct contact hours. If you have to work for financial reasons, try to choose a part time position that won’t clash with your lecture times… hospitality and restaurant work can be useful, as they often involve night work, but try and remember that you still need time to study.

How Much Is Too Much?

While it’s difficult to lay down guidelines, here are some factors to be considered:

• Your familiarity with university study
• The newness or complexity of the particular courses you are taking
• Health, level of fatigue, psychological stress levels
• Other commitments
• The nature of the work

It is ideal to have the financial flexibility to stop work to allow for a concentrated period of study or to reduce stress.  You must be available to attend examinations.

Is This The RIght Job?

Factors to be considered include:

• Flexibility around shifts (timing, no. of hours, ability to drop shifts during peak periods)
• Security of employment
• Amount of travel time
• Relevance to future career goals
• The quality of the workplace, eg. good working relationships with supervisors and staff.

Where To Find Work

A lot of jobs aren’t advertised so be prepared to canvass for work. When canvassing, follow-up a few days later. Many jobs are found through word of mouth; so let friends know you’re seeking employment. Hospitality, retail, supermarket packing, call centre work and tutoring are common areas of employment.

Some students find work in areas related to their career interests. Check with the Careers Centre for more information about this (see below)

Positions are advertised through Centrelink, ANU Careers Centre and newspapers. If you have specific skills, you may wish to register with an Employment Agency (see Yellow Pages)

Centrelink Requirements

If you are getting Income Support from Centrelink, earnings above a certain amount will affect your payment. The Welfare Officer (see below) can help you work out the financial implications. Students seeking information about Youth Allowance should also consult the Welfare Officer.

International Students

International Students must obtain permission to work in Australia. Maximum allowable hours of employment: 20 hours per week during semester, unlimited hours during semester breaks. You can apply using the methods below:

For online applications, send an e-mail to compliance.ieo@anu.edu.au asking for IEO to confirm course commencement for permission to work. Or visit the IEO reception and complete a 'permission to work' form.

Your Rights

Listed below are information resources regarding wages and conditions.

For advice regarding awards:

Workplace Infoline
Ph: 1300 363 264
http://www.workplace.gov.au/

Office of Isustrial Relations (If working in NSW)
Ph: 13 16 28http://www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au

For legal advice:

Youth Law Centre ACT
Ph: 6262 7077
http://www.youthlawact.org.au/

Welfare Rights and Legal Centre.
Ph: 6247 2177
http://www.welfarerightsact.org/

Help On Campus

The ANU Careers Centre runs a part time employment service and currently receives over 1000 student jobs per year. Students can visit the Centre and register on Career Hub, the Centre's on line vacancy system. The Centre can also help with job seeking and interview skills. Tel. 61253593.

The Welfare Officer with the Students’Association can advise you on Centrelink issues and other forms of financial support including loans. Tel. 6125 55849

Academic Skills and Learning Centre and the Counselling Centre can discuss time management and stress management concerns. Counsellors can also help you prepare to negotiate with your employer.