Insider Guides International Student Guide to Melbourne | Page 29

What do I need to know about tax?
Before working in Australia it is crucial to obtain a Tax File Number (TFN). Your TFN will
ensure that you get taxed at the correct rate for the amount of work you are doing. Australia
has a tax-free threshold of $18,200, meaning you will pay no tax if you earn less than this
amount in one year. If you have any tax taken from your earnings then you will need to
complete a tax return at the end of the financial year.
ato.gov.au

GETTING A JOB CHECKLIST

How do I find a part-time job?

Volunteering

1

Write a Résumé

2

Apply for a Tax File Number

3

Open an Australian bank account

4

Speak to your institution’s
career centre

5

Utilise online resources and
your network to discover
available positions

6

Apply for these positions with a
specifically written cover letter

7

Once you have arranged a TFN, set up a bank account
and finished your résumé, you are ready to start your
job search. The hospitality and retail industries are
traditionally the biggest employers of students due to
their varying hours and need for casual employees.
Your institution’s career centre, or online jobs board,
may have several roles specifically for students. Some
bars, shops and cafés may advertise positions in their
windows. For more information on finding a job see our
guide on p33.

Attend your job interview

Melbourne

Why should I volunteer?
Volunteering will provide you with a vast range of employability skills,
improve your communication skills, allow you to make new friends and
integrate more with your new community. Your university may have a
volunteering office, but if not seek help at the careers office. Off-campus
volunteering may take you further into the local community and allow you
to learn about Australian customs. The experience you develop through
volunteering can be of great advantage when you apply for a professional role.
volunteeringvictoria.org.au - volunteer.com.au - govolunteer.com.au

First Steps | insiderguides.com.au

First Steps

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