Temporary Changes to Student and Working Holiday Visas in 2022 & How They Impact Educators

We have been excitedly following the latest news regarding Working Holiday Maker and Student Visa holders. Here are the changes and how they impact educators.

Student Visa Changes

Student Visa holders are now able to work more than 40 hours per fortnight. This applies to ongoing students and newly arrived students (who may not have commenced their studies yet). The Government will review this temporary arrangement in April 2022. Students arriving between the 19th of January to the 19th of March 2022 will not only be able to work increased hours, but they will also be eligible for a refund of their visa application charge (VAC) of AUD630. Details on how to apply for a refund will be available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

If you are a student making the most of these relaxed conditions you must maintain your course enrolment, continue your satisfactory course attendance and ensure you make satisfactory progress in your course.

We have a range of great casual work options for you while you study. Enquire about our Education Support, Outside School Hours Care, and Early Childhood opportunities which are perfect for increasing your industry experience and growing your network while you continue your education studies. The additional working hours will give you more flexibility with the bookings you are able to accept and could open up opportunities to take on short blocks of work which can help you develop your relationship with a school or service.

Working Holiday Visa Changes

Effective immediately, the Government is also relaxing the standard 6-month work limitation for Working Holiday Makers. Until the end of 2022, there will be no time limitation. This arrangement will be reassessed in December 2022. In addition, any Working Holiday Maker visa holder offshore and arriving in Australia between the 19th of January and 19th of April 2022 will be eligible for a refund of their visa application charge (VAC) of AUD495, this will apply to secondary visa holders also. Details on how to apply for a refund will be available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

If you are traveling on a Working Holiday Visa and would like to take on a fixed-term contract with a school or service, please reach out to discuss the opportunities relevant to your qualifications and situation. Taking on a contract is a fantastic way to get a deeper understanding of the school system in Australia and can be an asset if you are looking to stay in Australia long term.

Stay informed of future updates: News page (homeaffairs.gov.au)