The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) is an independent Australian Government agency. It helps employers and employees understand their rights and responsibilities under Australian workplace laws. The FWO can help resolve workplace issues. It is safe and free for you if you need help.
The FWO can:
The FWO gives advice and support to all workers in Australia, including international students. You can get general advice from the FWO or report issues without giving your name, for example, by using the FWO's anonymous reporting tool.
Language is not a problem when contacting the FWO. You can access their services in different languages – all for free.
Your employer can't cancel your visa. Only the Department of Home Affairs can grant, refuse or cancel visas.
It’s not FWO’s role to check your visa. If you have breached your visa (for example, by working too many hours), you can still get help from FWO. In these situations, the Department of Home Affairs usually won't cancel your visa under the Assurance protocol.
If you agree, the FWO can also share your information with the Department of Home Affairs, who generally won’t cancel your visa if there is evidence your workplace rights have been breached.
You can also watch this helpful, short video on working in Australia. It’s available in other languages.