In view of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns in Australia, supermarkets in regions locked down will now be able to recruit international students for over 40 hours a fortnight to address a staff shortage.
This will apply to supermarkets across Victoria and New South Wales, which will be termed as "urgent relief" from the sector.
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Immigration Minister Hawke has said that this would make sure that critical services are continued in the community, which in turn would provide essential workers with added income flexibility during this unprecedented time. He further appreciated the supermarket workers and their contribution during the pandemic as they have stepped up to make sure that all Australians have essential items available.
In June 2021, Australia's Department of Home Affairs reduced working hours for student visa holders employed in the sectors of agriculture, tourism, Aged and Disability Care and hospital around the country. Visa holders pursuing health providing essential health services have also been exempted.
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International students working in Australiaover 40 hours every fortnight will have to maintain their program enrolment as well as satisfactory attendance and course progression.
In case they have received an employment offer in these sectors and have finished their course, they can apply for Covid-19 (subclass 408) visa.
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