Believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner! Whether or not you celebrate, Christmas is an exciting time for international students. Not only do you get a big break from your studies, but you also get the chance to land an awesome Christmas casual gig!
Read on to learn everything you need to know about working in Australia as a Christmas casual.
What is a Christmas casual?
The period leading up to Christmas and the new year is a busy time for many businesses, particularly retail shops, restaurants and cafes.
As people ramp up their shopping, catch up with loved ones and celebrate the end of the year, many businesses look to hire extra hands to help them meet the increased demand.
This is where Christmas casuals come in. These are employees hired under a casual contract for the busy period of late November to early January, and now is the perfect time to land yourself a great gig!
Why get a Christmas casual job
One of the biggest reasons students love Christmas casual work is the extra income.
Not only are there plenty of shifts to go around, but working as a casual usually means you'll get a higher hourly rate than a permanent employee.
Taking on a temporary job can also be a great way to get some work experience, which can be really helpful when graduation rolls around.
Plus, some Christmas casuals even get offered permanent or ongoing work in the new year, especially if they work hard and show dedication to the job.
Finally, getting a casual job over the break is an awesome way to meet new people and make new friends.
Where can I find casual jobs?
Luckily, it's pretty easy to find Christmas casual vacancies.
Most roles will be in retail and hospitality, so try to focus your search there. Larger retailers, such as H&M, JB Hi-Fi, Woolworths Group, Coles Group and Rebel Sport, often have their own job application portals on their websites. Australia Post also hires many casuals over the Christmas period.
Job sites like Indeed, Seek and Jora are other great places to check out. Also, see if your university or educational institution has its own job board, as this can be a great way to find nearby roles.
Finally, don't be afraid to ask around! Your friends, classmates or roommates may know of opportunities you aren't aware of, so let them know you're looking and ask them to share any hot leads!
Application tips
Your application is the first impression your potential employer will get of you, so it's worth taking the time to do it right.
Firstly, make sure you have a polished, professional resume. You should make sure it's neat, easy to read, and includes all the relevant information. Our handy resume template is a great place to start.
Many jobs will also ask you to provide a cover letter. This is your opportunity to introduce yourself to your potential employer and share a bit about yourself, so don't rush it!
When you get to the interview, it's natural to feel a bit nervous, but try to be upbeat, and positive and let your awesome self shine through!
Your work rights as an international student
Before you start your search, it's crucial to be aware of your international student working rights.
Most student visas allow you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours over breaks. Visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information on your visa conditions.
You should also be aware of your rights at work. Under Australian law, you're entitled to be paid at or above the minimum wage, and you're protected from discrimination and exploitation.
If you're unsure about your rights or want to find out more, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman.
https://insiderguides.com.au/how-to-look-for-christmas-casual-work-in-australia/
