Key employers across Australia have suggested that a change in work rights for students in the country will help alleviate staffing challenges that have been heightened by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Employers including 7-Eleven, Woolworths and Bunnings say changes announced by the Australian government on January 19 – allowing study visa holders to temporarily work more than 20 hours – will be beneficial for both employers and the student employees.

“The pandemic, particularly in recent months, has created enormous staffing challenges for our franchisees so they are also very happy with the announcement.”

The chain of convenience stores has long been calling for the changes, McKay continued, adding the company has made numerous submissions to various Parliamentary Committees as well as direct representations to ministers over the past few years.

“7-Eleven’s view is that students should be allowed to work as many hours they can manage as long as they are meeting their course requirements.

“Across Australia, thousands of international students are valued members of our store and supply chain teams,” she said.