Many travellers step into Australia with dreams of soaking up the sun, exploring the cities and maybe earning a little on the side. But if you’re visiting on a tourist visa, that last part could get you into serious trouble. The rules around working on a visitor visa are strict and not knowing them can cost you more than just your holiday. So, can you work on an Australian visitor visa?

No, you cannot work on an Australian visitor visa. These visas are strictly for tourism, business visitor activities or short-term medical reasons. Doing any kind of paid work on this visa is considered illegal and can lead to visa cancellation, deportation and future bans.

Keep reading to understand what this means for your travel plans and what to do if you want to work in Australia legally.

Can You Work on an Australian Visitor Visa? A Brief Overview

Australia welcomes millions of visitors each year, but the law is very clear: visitor visas are not for work. This visa lets you explore the country, visit family or friends or attend business meetings, but it doesn’t allow you to take up a job, even temporarily.

Working while holding a visitor visa breaks visa conditions. Immigration authorities take this seriously and it can have harsh consequences like visa cancellation or even being banned from entering Australia again. 

Even unpaid work or volunteering can be risky unless it meets very specific guidelines. Always check the terms of your visa before doing anything that looks like employment, no matter how casual it seems.

Need Help with Your Visitor Visa in Sydney? Speak to Lewis & Bollard Today

If you’re unsure about what you can and can’t do on a visitor visa, don’t leave it to guesswork. At Lewis & Bollard, we help individuals across Australia, including Sydney, NSW, VIC and QLD, understand their visa conditions and avoid costly mistakes. 

Our experienced team of immigration advisors and lawyers offers clear advice, practical solutions and genuine support. Whether you’ve accidentally breached your visa or just want to stay compliant, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Call us today at +612 9283 0888 or visit our Contact Us page. Let’s sort it out the right way.

What Are the Consequences of Working in Australia on a Visitor Visa?

While the idea of earning while exploring Australia might seem appealing, working on a visitor visa is strictly prohibited and can lead to severe repercussions.

• Immediate Visa Cancellation: Engaging in work while on a visitor visa breaches visa conditions, leading to immediate cancellation. This action results in the loss of legal status in Australia and potential detention by immigration authorities.
• Deportation: Once a visa is cancelled due to unauthorised work, deportation becomes a likely outcome. This process involves removal from Australia and can be a distressing experience.
• Financial Penalties: Both the individual and the employer can face substantial fines. Employers found hiring individuals without the right to work may also face legal action.
• Legal Prosecution: Unauthorised work can lead to criminal charges, resulting in court proceedings and potential criminal records.
• Future Visa Restrictions: A history of visa breaches can hinder future visa applications. Individuals may face bans or increased scrutiny in subsequent applications.
• Detention: In some cases, individuals found working illegally may be detained while arrangements for their departure are made.
• Impact on Reputation: Being caught working illegally can tarnish one’s reputation, affecting personal and professional relationships.

What Are the Rules to Work in Australia?

To work legally in Australia, one must hold a visa that permits employment. Knowing these rules ensures compliance and a smooth experience.

Obtain the Correct Visa

Australia offers various visas that allow work, such as the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482), Skilled Independent (subclass 189) and Working Holiday (subclass 417 or 462) visas. Each has specific eligibility criteria and conditions. Before applying, make sure the visa you choose aligns with your skills, intended occupation and length of stay. Consulting with a registered migration agent or using the Department of Home Affairs website can help you choose the most suitable option.

Adhere to Visa Conditions

Each visa comes with conditions, including the type of work permitted, duration and employer restrictions. It’s essential to understand and comply with these conditions to maintain legal status. Breaching visa conditions could lead to visa cancellation or difficulty applying for future visas. Keep a copy of your visa grant notice and refer to VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) for your specific conditions.

Understand Work Hour Limitations

Some visas, like student visas, have work hour restrictions. For instance, student visa holders are generally limited to 48 hours of work per fortnight during study periods. Exceeding these limits can result in a visa breach, so it’s crucial to track your hours carefully. Employers should also be aware of your visa conditions to avoid non-compliance.

Know Your Rights

All workers in Australia, regardless of visa status, are entitled to basic rights and protections. This includes fair pay, safe working conditions and protection from exploitation. You have the right to join a union, receive accurate payslips and be paid at least the minimum wage under Australian law. These rights are protected even if you’re on a temporary visa.

Avoid Exploitative Practices

Be cautious of employers who ask for payment in exchange for jobs or who offer below minimum wage. Such practices are illegal, and reporting them won’t affect your visa status. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts—support is available, and you won’t be penalised for speaking up. Resources like the Fair Work Ombudsman can help you report misconduct confidentially.

Keep Documentation

Always retain copies of your visa, employment contracts and pay slips. These documents are vital for resolving any disputes or clarifying your work rights. Maintaining a personal record of hours worked and payments received can also serve as evidence in case of a disagreement. Store digital and physical copies in a secure place.

Seek Assistance When Needed

If you’re unsure about your visa conditions or facing workplace issues, reach out to the Fair Work Ombudsman or the Department of Home Affairs for guidance. For more complex issues, such as breaches or visa concerns, consider seeking help from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer. Professional advice can help you avoid serious consequences and understand your options clearly.

Summing Up

Choosing to work on an Australian visitor visa is a serious misstep that can quickly unravel your travel plans. While the temptation to earn while abroad might seem harmless, the risks far outweigh any short-term benefit. Cancelled visas, deportation, bans and fines are consequences that no visitor wants to face.

If you truly want to work and explore Australia, the smart move is to apply for a work-eligible visa. This keeps your stay legal, stress-free and open to more opportunities. Always check your visa rights, stick to the rules and enjoy the best of what Australia has to offer, legally and responsibly.