While the exact rule and working policy of the International students holding a valid student visa is 20 hours per week, the wild spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), has urged the Australian government to revise its working limit to 40 hours.
On 2020, March 13, the Australian government has relaxed the working hours for the international students working in supermarkets for the smooth function of the retail chain. The chaos caused in supermarkets and retail chains due to corona has allowed them to work for 40 hours a fortnight.
This is a temporary permit released by the Australian government to help the supermarket keep up with the stock on their shelves. Acting Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services, and Multicultural Affairs, Alan Tudge justified that the changes would help the supermarkets to cope up with the inclining demand, as the supermarkets are struggling to stock in the essential items such as toilet papers and basic food. 
Mr. Tudge said, “Supermarkets across the country are struggling to keep shelves stocked and essential items such as toilet paper, pasta, rice, and tissues.”
He added,” To keep up with this demand, supermarkets have told us they need to give an extra hour to current staff to stock shelves and serve Australian customers. While many of these will be Australian workers, International students will also be able to increase their working hours.”
Revision in policy has been made for the short-term and shall be reviewed time and often till the situation of coronavirus eradicates. The government is also looking forward to expanding the measures in another business sector if required.
Ministry of Education Dan Tehan said the implementation of the policy will assist the supermarket at the same time support the international students. The initiatives will provide flexibility to work and earn for the students and also give the business an extra pair of helping hand.
Despite the extension of working hours, employers must abide by all relevant workplace rules and regulations.
The information is available at the official website of the Department of Home Affairs or the Global Service Center on 131 881.
