australia work and travel

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Work & Travel in Australia

Work in australia and earn money to bask on the beach, explore the outback, or savor city livin’ in the land down under., eligibility, program dates, costs and inclusions, make it a gap year, startup budget, sydney welcome week, orientation, why greenheart travel, application process.

This is your chance to dive into Australia and truly live like a local . Spend up to a year working and traveling throughout Australia while experiencing lively cities , incredible wildlife , adventure sports , and engaging with new friends from all over the world!

Greenheart Travel’s program is ideal if you:

• Are between the ages of 18-30 and want to live abroad in a country known for its natural wonders.
• Looking for an adventure, and are open to working a variety of jobs.
• Are looking for the long-term study abroad experience that you never had.
• Want to meet a community of travelers like yourself!

Progr am at a Glance:

• Sufficient salary to live and travel!
• Assistance finding work in bars, restaurants, resorts, farms, and other short-term jobs.
• Group program start dates.
• Pre-departure and in-country support.
• Welcome Week in Sydney with excursions and group activities.
• Friends, couples, and siblings are welcome!

You must meet the following requirements to apply

• Citizen of one of the following: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, EU.
• Must be eligible for a Working Holiday Visa.
• Be between the ages of 18-30* years old.
• Must be outside of Australia for the visa application process.
• Be a native English speaker or have near-native fluency.

Due to visa regulations for a Working Holiday Visa we cannot make exceptions to these requirements. These are put in place by the Australian government.

*The maximum age has been raised to 35 for certain countries in the EU and UK. Please check the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website for more information. 

The Sydney Welcome Week starts on Mondays, so you’ll arrive on one of these dates:

Program Price: $1,690 USD

Packaged into Program Cost:

• Adventure welcome week in Sydney
• 6 months of international medical insurance
• Airport pickup and transfer to hostel
• 7 nights’ hostel accommodation (shared room) and breakfasts
• Group arrival orientation
• 1-on-1 job assistance service, support, and advice
• Bank account set up prior to arrival
• Resources and support for finding permanent housing
• Cellphone setup
• Australian SIM card
• Organized social events and activities
• Greenheart Atlas Program
• Greenheart Club Membership

Our Support and Services:

• Online logistical and cultural training before departure from an Experienced Travel Program Manager.
• 24 hour in-country emergency support for the duration of your program.
• Job and accommodation support for the full duration of your program, not just the duration of the welcome week!
• Visa Assistance as needed.
• Assistance preparing tax paperwork upon arrival and before departure home.
• Opportunity to apply for a Greenheart Grant to give back to your community at home or abroad.
• Highly experienced team of in-country support staff members.

Additional Expenses to Consider:

• Visa processing and fees (about $450 AUD- you will apply for your visa online)
• Flights and return transfers
• Lunch and dinner during Welcome Week
• Housing costs and living expenses (meals, utilities, etc.)
• Personal expenses

Wondering where exactly your program fee goes? Here is a breakdown.

Work Abroad Australia is a tremendous gap year option ! Our program is designed to have a structural component that assists our travelers with pre-departure and arrival logistics such as bank account setup, obtaining the equivalent of their Social Security number, finding accommodation, securing a job, and making friends! This work abroad program also allows for enough flexibility for travelers to experience self-discovery by choosing where they live, what jobs they secure, and when and where they would like to travel.

This is a great gap year program for you if you:

• Want a program centered around community.
• Are seeking guidance to help you navigate getting settled abroad, but desire the flexibility to work and travel on your own schedule.
• Enjoy outdoor activities.
• Are open to working a variety of jobs.
• Crave a travel abroad experience that lasts for 6-12 months.
• Are looking to add work abroad experience to your resume.

Skills and personal growth that our Greenheart Travelers have acquired while on program:

• Customer service
• Cross-cultural communication
• Agricultural
• Interpersonal
• Problem-solving
• Traveling know-how
• Strong sense of self
• Independence

The cost of living in Australia, especially in big cities like Sydney, is likely more than what you’re used to in your home country. So, it is important to budget accordingly to make sure you are financially prepared upon arrival and until you begin to make a regular paycheck.

Here is a rough estimate of your initial start-up costs (in USD):

Flight:                             $1,200

Program Fee:                $1,690

Visa:                                 $350

Savings:                        $3,394*

Total:                             $6,634

* this total amount is a requirement of the Working Holiday Visa, however, it is a good amount to have to make sure you have enough money to live comfortably until you start working.

Average Weekly Budget:

Your salary will depend on how often you decide to work and what work you end up getting into. However, you are guaranteed to make Australian minimum wage ($19.49 AUD/hour), and as long as you’re working 28-38 hours per week, you’ll be making enough to live and travel on.

Wages and rent are paid weekly which makes budgeting your paychecks much easier:

These weekly costs will, of course, depend on your personal spending habits, where you live, how many hours you work, and if your job provides a higher pay/accommodation, but you should expect to be able to save some of your paycheck every week.

Although you will most likely spend any extra cash on travel opportunities in between jobs, you have the potential to make back your start up costs:

Monthly Savings =                               $410.20 AUD

Yearly Savings =                                   $4,922.40 AUD

During your first week in Sydney, you’ll have 7 days of activities and excursions where you’ll get to know fellow travelers and enjoy your introduction to this gorgeous country!

Monday: Check in, chill out and relax in preparation for a big week ahead! You will meet your group leader and the rest of your group, plus familiarize yourself with the team. You will also get a brief overview on what’s going to happen for the week ahead. Later you will visit a party bar for your Welcome Dinner!

Tuesday: After a good night’s sleep, join the comprehensive info / welcome orientation session where you’ll learn everything you need to know about working and travelling around Australia. Our team in Australia are all experienced travelers and have started where you are now. After the welcome orientation session, you’ll head to the city tour which kicks off at 11am.

You will see the Sydney Harbour Bridge & the Opera House and take a trip down to the Botanical Gardens. At the same time, you’ll be getting to know your new mates in Australia and taking some awesome photos to make your mates back home jealous!

Later, you will experience a different side of Sydney! During the evening the group will go for a relaxed walk through the historical suburbs of Sydney. On this walk, you’ll see some of the Indigenous and early European history of Sydney, one of the most multicultural parts of Australia.

Wednesday: You’ll start off the day attending a job search seminar to learn lots of tips and tricks about job search in Australia, then you’ll go for a cruise on Sydney Harbour. Spend the rest of the day cruising, swimming, and chilling on Sydney Harbour! You’ll also get to enjoy your first Aussie BBQ on deck!

Thursday: You can’t come to Sydney and not visit the Blue Mountains! This morning, you’ll escape the city and travel to the Blue Mountains National Park, a short drive from Sydney. Enjoy hiking, visit waterfalls, spot wild kangaroos, and take in some of the Bluey’s spectacular views!

Friday: Happy Friday! You will visit Sydney’s famous cliff-top coastline and walk from Coogee to Bondi beach. You’ll explore six beaches along the way! It’s the perfect way to take multiple swims or work on your tan before taking in the sights of Bondi!

Saturday: Immerse yourself in the true-blue Aussie tradition that is ‘catching a wave’ at our half day group surf lessons. Our qualified and local surf guide will teach you the ins and outs of surfing with ocean safety, surfing techniques, warm-up, and time in the water. You’ll be gliding along a wave in no time. After a day at the beach, you’ll get dressed up for a fun night on the town! Meet the group at one of our favorite party bars before starting our Sydney Pub Crawl.

Sunday: Your first week down under comes to an end. The itinerary is over, but your adventure continues – on Sunday our team will assist you with any remaining questions you’ve got and also onward travel planning.

*** Welcome week activities are subject to change based on seasonality.

During your first week in Sydney, you’ll attend a brief orientation to prepare you for your job and housing search. Before you arrive, your bank account will already be opened – you won’t have to research Australian banks or finalize your account. Instead, the team will have prepared all of your paperwork in advance. They will also set you up for the Australian tax system and give you your Tax ID so you file taxes before you leave.

During orientation you will meet the team and get all the information necessary to start planning your time in Australia. You will learn about life in Australia, when to work, where to work, where to travel and when to travel.

At orientation, you will:

• Learn about Australian culture!
• Review the yearly job market; what jobs are abundant and where.
• Be introduced to online job boards for future jobs.
• Sign up for any required courses you may need to be eligible for work, like the RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) if you plan to work in environments where you serve alcohol (resorts, bars, cruise ships)*
• Receive assistance in finding short or long term accommodation.
• Receive tax ID and learn how to file taxes when you leave the country.

*These courses may or not be available, as not all services are fully up and running

Job Consultation

You will have the opportunity to meet with a job consultant and talk about your resume, what other skills you may have that aren’t listed on your resume, and to set your expectations for the type of work that you would be best suited for.

After the job consultant gets to know you a little better, you will be put on an Availability List along with all the other travelers. This list shows who is available to work, what their skills and preferences are as well as who is traveling and unavailable for work. This list is constantly changing as 50-60 employers call every day looking for employees to start working ASAP.

Our in-country staff will call you to let you know when you have been matched with a job, which you can take or turn down. Travelers who are open minded to the work they do may start working the day after they are placed on the Availability list, where others may hold out for their preferred position or decide to travel first. If you’re looking to work, you should expect to have a job within 2-3 weeks.

You may use this method to find work later in the year, though most travelers prefer to use the online job board to find subsequent work, especially if they have relocated outside of Sydney.

Most of your job opportunities will be in the Sydney area and in the southern region of Australia around Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns. Resort and agriculture jobs are offered in the Northern Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. Greenheart Travel’s partner has professional relationships with trusted employers around Australia who pay fair wages and alert us whenever they have positions available.

What are the most common job types?

Hospitality, customer service, and office work are by far the most common job type as Australian companies report that the high level of service in the US and Canada tends to produce workers who are well-suited for these types of positions.

Seasonal work in amusement parks, resorts, and on offshore cruises, etc. are great positions for more consistent and long-term jobs (3-6 months) where jobs in restaurants, bars, hostels, and hotels are widely available for shorter contracts.

Working on farms and WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) are also popular among Working Holiday travelers who want to experience a different type of work outside of a city.

Can I change jobs while I am there?

Yes. Many jobs are seasonal, so it is likely you will hold more than one job in your host country. Also, visa requirements dictate that you will not be allowed to work for a given employer for a period longer than six months. Due to these factors, most Work and Travel travelers hold 2-3 jobs over the duration of their stay, which is a great way to travel to different parts of the country and experience as much authentic Aussie culture as you can!

You will have access to an online job board which will enable you to check employment postings wherever you are. You should also call or visit the Center in Sydney regularly to keep informed of new work opportunities.

Greenheart Traveler, Ashana, and her fruit picking co-workers!

There are advantages of applying for this program through us:

• 33 years of experience with cultural exchange programs.
• Friendly, responsive, and professional support from your program manager!
• We make our program fees as inclusive as possible. We include things like extensive medical insurance for the duration of the program, airport pickup, and extensive pre-departure and on-program support, so you’re not on your own for any part of your adventure.
• Our alumni recommend us! GoAbroad.com Reviews
• Exclusive access to the Greenheart Atlas, our interactive program that will guide you through your cultural immersion experience before, during, and after your program.
• Hands on support and personal attention every step of the way.
• 24/7 emergency phone number to reach a staff member at any time.
• Pre-departure “Culture Shock and Adjustment” Webinar before you leave.
• Discounts for future Greenheart Travel programs.
• We are a non-profit, mission based organization.
• Continued support throughout your program.

We also have some unique offerings to our Greenheart Travel participants and alumni!

• Greenheart Grants: Greenheart Grants are funds awarded to Greenheart Travel participants to use for community development projects in their host or home country. A Greenheart Grant is the opportunity to create, improve, or maintain an impactful, community-focused project abroad or at home. Grant funds could be applied to supporting women’s cooperatives, schools, community centers, or health clinics, for example. Grant winners will be featured on our website, social media, and blog. You can see our past winners on our blog here.
• Greenheart Alumni Program: We created the Greenheart Travel Alumni Program to provide resources and a community to support alumni in their advancement as global leaders, and a way to celebrate and reward our participants for being ambitious, inspiring catalysts of cultural exchange!
• Greenheart Global Leaders Conference: Each August Greenheart offers full ride scholarships to over 40 alumni to attend our annual conference in Washington, DC. Participants even get a chance to advocate for cultural exchange in a presentation to the US Department of State. You can see more about what GGLC is and what you could do at the conference here.

Read more about why people are choosing Greenheart Travel: Why Choose Greenheart Travel? 

What will my first week look like?

Your first week is a time of exploration, preparation, and fun!

All programs begin on Thursdays. The program start date that you select from our website will be your arrival date. Our travelers use this time to settle into their accommodation, review their itinerary for the week, explore a bit, and recharge for the rest of the welcome week ahead!

The next 6 days will be dedicated to reviewing job resources, becoming familiar with local transportation, learning about housing, solidifying tax documents, meeting new friends, and getting to know Australia!

Where will I live during welcome week?

We have all of our travelers meet up at a hostel in the center of Sydney so everyone can get acquainted! For the first week you will live in shared hostel accommodation.

Where will I live when I am hired?

Shared flats, hostels, Airbnbs, and homestays are all potential accommodation options based on the lifestyle you would like to lead (i.e. backpacker or sedentary).

Some jobs, especially those on resorts and farms, include housing or subsidized housing. Our in-country partner does take housing requests within the Sydney and Melbourne area. Regardless of where you plan to live, they are happy to provide guidance and resources to help you find accommodation.

As a note, Sydney generally has the highest cost-of-living. In Sydney, you will likely pay $160-$200 for a shared room per week. If you want your own room, it is more expensive. If you are staying a while, think about renting an apartment with some friends or moving in with some Aussies, as it is generally the cheapest option. However, some jobs will only be short term (1-2 months) and it can be difficult to find a short or open lease, so you may need to spend more towards $200 AUD/week to stay at a hostel. Melbourne and other major cities have a lower cost of living than in Sydney, but most jobs are available in and around Sydney.

Do I have to stay for the full 12 months?

No, you don’t have to stay for the full 12 months.

We recommend that our travelers plan a trip that is 3 months or longer, but it isn’t mandatory. In our experience, we find that it takes our travelers a month or so to get acclimated in their new surroundings. The first few weeks are used to secure jobs, accommodation, and tax information. Having a handful of months in Australia will allow you to fully settle in, work, and travel comfortably.

If you’re looking for programs that range from 1, 2, or 3 months, take a look at a few of these program options:

• Work Abroad Argentina 
• Thailand Business Internship
• Homestay Abroad 

How long does it take the get a job?

This varies. During the busy season when lots of jobs are available, sometimes several job prospects are already awaiting you when you arrive and you can start work right away. Other times it can take up to 6 weeks. Usually if there is a delay it is because you have rejected initial job prospects because they did not meet your expectations for some reason.

Can I get a career-oriented job?

The visa you’ll get only allows you to work at any one job for 6 months or less. Since employers looking to fill high-skill positions generally want someone for longer than that, it’s unlikely (although not impossible) that you’d get a more professional or high-skilled position. This program caters to people looking for a more casual work experience, and who are more focused on travel.

Can I work for longer than one year?

United States citizens are eligible for a second Working Holiday visa if they spend 3 months working in Northern Australia in one of the following industries:

• plant and animal cultivation
• fishing and pearling
• tree farming and felling
• tourism and hospitality

This means you could work for three months in one place, then have 21 more months to work and travel as you please in Australia! Our in-country staff will help you secure this type of work if you’re interested in taking advantage of this policy.

Will I need a car?

No, public transportation is widely available in Australia, especially within the cities and urban areas.

Will I meet other travelers?

Yes, we’ve designed this as a group program! Each start date allows for up to 25 travelers.

Our welcome week includes an orientation in addition to numerous group activities that allow you to meet a bunch of individuals who are also looking to work and travel throughout the country. Since you’re all on the same program, you’ll already have a lot in common!

What qualities does Greenheart Travel look for in Australia Work Abroad applicants?

We look for applicants that are open-minded, flexible, adventurous, hardworking, and communicative!

Open-mindedness and flexibility are qualities that we seek because it is not uncommon that travelers work 2-3 jobs during their stay abroad. Not everyone will start off with their dream job, BUT everyone gains valuable experience—the more open-minded you are, the sooner you will find work!

Adventurous individuals are great for this program because Australia provides ample opportunity for travelers to be engaged in nature and participate in exciting activities.

We seek hardworking and communicative individuals because each traveler must be willing to do their share of work in order to solidify housing and employment. Our team works hard to assist and support our travelers, but travelers must be willing to attend job interviews and communicate with our team abroad.

1.   Start Your Application  Here .  You will be sent more information as well as the link to our application portal to begin your formal application.

2. Submit Basic Program Information:  The first step in our application portal will be basic things like your chosen start date, etc.

3. Submit your Application Fee : A $300 fee is required in order to apply for the program. This is subtracted from your total program fee. If we are unable to accept you following your interview (very unlikely!) we will refund your application fee in full.

4.   Complete Application & Documents :  Provide more detailed information about yourself in Part 2 of the application. In this section, you’ll tell us more information like your work history, motivations for joining the program, travel history, and emergency contacts. You will also submit your documents (below) within your portal account.

5.   Zoom Interview: Once you have submitted your online application and paid your application fee, you will be asked to schedule a video interview with a Greenheart Travel representative.

6. You’re Accepted!  Woohoo! We are usually able to accept people within 1-2 weeks of their interviews.

7. Commitment Payment: Once you are accepted to the program, you will need to submit a $300 commitment payment within 14 days to confirm your spot on the program. Once you submit your commitment payment you will unlock the acceptance portion of your portal, which includes things like pre-departure videos, travel and arrival information, the Greenheart Travel Atlas, and more.

9. Book your flights, and get ready for your adventure to Australia! The rest of your balance is due 60 days before you leave.

The above process can take as little as 1 week to complete, so it’s up to you how quickly you’re able to complete each step.

Take a glimpse into life in Australia through some Greenheart Traveler’s photos. Make sure to also check out #greenhearttravel on Instagram for more!

Sound like your kind of adventure?

Want access to our Facebook group to talk with travelers on this program? Click here! ​

Greenheart Travel Adventures

Alumni spotlight on nora weiss: finding perspective, patience and mermaid pools in australia, how to navigate an international airport, ashana’s nine months in australia: work, save and then travel.

• How it Works

Work Opportunities

• Travel with AIFS
• Costs & Inclusions
• Other Costs to Consider
• Prepare For Your Trip
• Au Pair in Australia

LET'S GET STARTED

To get the most out of Work & Travel Australia it helps to plan ahead.

Taking the time to research your travel plans and preferred work will save you time, and help you after you arrive.

You may have firm plans about the type of work you want to do when you arrive. It is possible that as Australia reopens some controls will be placed on the type of work you can do and where. AIFS is working closely with employers and contractors to ensure we are ready to give you the correct advice and source. This is another reason why it is important to consider a package like AIFS’.

Ensure you have realistic expectations about working in Australia. Some jobs you do can be more about the opportunity to earn money and make friends than direct related experience to your studies or prior employment in your home country.

Remember that the Australian government requires proof of funds totalling $5,000 (Approx. $US3700). These funds are designed to cover the first weeks before you earn a wage and the costs that quickly add up for board and accommodation.

I wanted to thank you, the AIFS team again. You always stood behind me and encouraged me to try situations where I would have normally thrown in everything and flown home. learned a lot in Australia. Thank you. Ollie

Preparing For Your Trip

The big day is getting closer, so it is now time to prepare. Your successful entry into Australia depends on you completing ALL the necessary steps required by the Australian government at the correct time. We have provided this list, however, you will receive detailed information after you apply to ensure you understand all the necessary steps prior to departure.

Lock in your job before you leave or use the AIFS' Job Desk after you arrive. We provide expert advice including one-on-one consultations and CV checking service.

Australia is on everyone's bucket list. As an AIFS traveller you have access to exclusive discounts and honest advice about what to do and where to go. AIFS Travel saves you money and time and gets you the best deals. Click here to learn more.

Australia's working holiday visa opens up to those over 30 years

Jul 3, 2023 • 5 min read

Jobs in the agricultural sector are abundant – and can be demanding if highly rewarding © Jason Edwards / Getty Images

If you think you missed out on the "gap year" or working holiday experience because of the global lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, we have some good news.

Since  Australia   reopened its borders  in 2022 it has been experiencing labor shortages in a host of industries. In response, the government has just increased the eligibility for some working holiday makers from 30 to 35 years to attract more workers Down Under.

And there's more: the range of jobs available to working holiday makers in Australia means taking a year out to work and travel doesn't have to derail your career (something the gap year naysayers might tell you).

Keen to  spend a year or two living, working and traveling in Australia  in 2023 or 2024? Read on for everything you need to know to make it happen. 

What are the new rules for working holiday makers in Australia?

As of 1 July 2023, citizens of the UK, Canada, France, Denmark, Italy and Ireland are eligible to apply for an Australian Working Holiday visa up to the age of 35. For the other 40 countries participating in the program , the 30 year age restriction remains for now.

Industry groups are calling on the Australian government to go further and lift the age of working holiday visas to 50 years to help plug skills gaps, especially in management level roles, but nothing has been decided yet.

Some of the requirements for extending the visa beyond an initial 12 months (such as undertaking farm work) will also be dropped for British passport holders from 1 July 2024 as part of the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement.

Commenting on the changes, Sally Cope, Tourism Australia’s Regional General Manager for UK & Northern Europe said, “Every year, more than 35,000 young Brits head to Australia to work and play, the Aussie way.

"Our research reveals close to half of 25- to 34-year-olds are considering working abroad to advance their careers, so this five-year age range increase presents a world of openings to these young professionals.

"Australia also offers an incredible lifestyle – where else can you be in the boardroom at 4pm and by the beach an hour later? We’re sure there are many 30–35-year-olds who thought they had missed their chance to live and work Down Under, who will jump at this exciting prospect; and Australia is ready to welcome them.”

So, is there a downside? Well, while eligibility has increased – so has cost of the Working Holiday Maker visa, rising from AU$510 to AU$640 from 1 July. Perhaps it's a government incentive to stick around for longer and make the most of the opportunities in Australia.

How long does it take to get a working holiday visa?

Provided you have an up-to-date passport, satisfy the age requirement (which varies by citizenship ), have some savings, and meet the health and character requirements for a Working Holiday visa , you can apply immediately. 

As long as you have all the necessary documentation ready, visa approvals can be turned around in less than a day. 

How long can I work in Australia?

To extend your initial 12-month Australian Working Holiday visa for a second year (and even a third year), most travelers need to do at least 12 weeks (3 months) in a "specified industry" and/or region. These are places where workers are most needed in Australia: farming, fisheries, construction or remote-area tourism gigs. 

However this requirement is changing in 2024 for British travelers thanks for a reciprocal agreement between the two nations. 

The former rule that you can only work for one employer for a maximum of six months is being reinstated, after a temporary amnesty. This was a condition industry wants removed, particularly in more remote locations where it's harder to attract good staff. Workers take time to learn the ropes, and to build strong relationships. 

To further entice willing workers, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s tourism group is encouraging employers to stump up the visa fees (AU$640) to get people over to fill their job vacancies.

If you're applying for a job from home while applying for your visa, there's no harm in asking your future employer to help you out with the fee.

What jobs are there in Australia for working holiday makers?

Matthew Heyes of Backpacker Job Board , Australia’s largest recruitment website for working holiday makers, says, “Job opportunities for working holiday makers are widespread, covering a range of different sectors. There are fruit-picking…and other agricultural-based [jobs], which are really popular because these roles contribute to the second- and third-year visa-extension program. The roles are also seasonal and offer the opportunity to earn well while the seasons are high. 

“Other cornerstones of backpacker employment include au pair work, plus sales and marketing positions as well as other broader hospitality jobs.”

A strong Australian dollar is another key incentive for workers who might be seeing their local currency tanking. Work hard enough and save well, and you could go home with some major dollars in the bank – that is, if you don’t spend it all having the time of your life traveling around Australia.  

I'm over 40, can I work in Australia for a year?

The proposal to extend the maximum age for the Working Holiday visa to 50 has certainly piqued a lot of interest. The mid-career sabbatical – sometimes called an “adult gap year” – was already gaining traction before the pandemic.

The global shutdown also saw a lot of people reviewing what is important in life. Taking a year out from an established career to work, travel and meet new people is just the kind of radical change many now crave in place of being tied to a screen all day.

Matthew Heyes sees the potential for extending the age for working holiday . “It will completely change what it is to be a backpacker,” he says. “No longer will it be confined to the youth travel market. We could see a more diverse profile of traveler in Australia’s adventure travel sector. I believe this could be a huge win for Australia.

“If it goes ahead, it will also introduce a workforce to Australia who have a broad wealth of skills and qualifications. Their career experience would benefit the Australian economy.” 

Doing something really different – whether working outside or in a public-facing role – somewhere as friendly, safe and beautiful as Australia could be the adventure of a lifetime. No matter your age.

This article was first published January 2023 and updated July 2023

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How it works, working holiday in australia (plus).

High demand. 500 + views in just the last 24 hours! Book soon to avoid losing your place.

Australia – The Land Down Under. Famous for friendly people, world-class beaches, and unlimited fun.

Australian people are well-known for their sense of adventure. Discover the country that inspires this adventure by living and working in Australia for up to three years on a Working Holiday. 

You could wing it and try to do everything yourself. Sure, some people do, but more often than not, it’ll be confusing, expensive, anxiety-inducing and time-consuming heading to a land unknown for the first time. This is an experience you’ll likely only do once, and the last thing you'd want is to be returning home with your tail between your legs just after you had your going away party (& blown all your savings). But, luckily, we've been working on the solution since 2008 that close to 90,000 others before you have chosen, as the world's leaders in working holidays. What if you could instead:

• With our  Money-Back Guarantee in place, receive an Australian Job Match before you even arrive* – year-round & all-done virtually from home (with no job fairs to travel to & compete at, unlike our competitors).
• Land a job almost anywhere , from tropical island resorts to outback pubs , with the largest network of partner companies loaded with perks like staff accommodation, tours + more!
• Keep the adventure going with a second country job match included in another destination for the ultimate work & travel experience around the globe!
• Meet others before you go   through our exclusive app . Join Global Traveller side-trips & meet-up events too.
• Save time, money, and stress with your own dedicated Trip Coordinator .
• Get help with  flights, travel insurance, accommodation, visa applications & more.

The ultimate way to have a hassle-free working holiday. Working to live (and not living to work), meeting other travellers, waking up every day to a new adventure, and making everyone back home severely jealous of all your stories.

Land in Australia prepared & excited, not anxious and scared - life’s too short for that.

*For a similar trip with the essentials only, check out this Working Holiday in Australia package. Keep a very careful eye on dates though, as capacity for both these trips are limited.

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Guaranteed job match pre-arrival*

A lot of companies don’t hire travellers, but we partner with many of the best that do. This means you will be pre-matched with an open position before you even arrive (or in your first couple days). And we're so sure of it, that we offer a money-back guarantee if you don't. (*TCs apply)

2nd country job match*

When you’re done here, head to another country for your next adventure! This trip includes another Working Holiday job match, or switch it up as an Au Pair or Tutor, in any other country we offer, except USA, Germany & South Korea. Visa guidance & virtual orientation included too! (*TCs apply)

Dedicated Trip Coordinator

Working holiday visa guidance.

Get your working holiday visa approved as cheap and easy as possible with our step-by-step instructions and personal guidance by your Trip Coordinator.

Pre-Departure Guide

Our in-depth pre-departure guide will have all the information you need about your trip & destination, at your fingertips.

Personal Travel Concierge

Private airport transfer.

Don't get stuck, lost or waste money on a taxi. Start your trip off right and roll up like a VIP. When you arrive a private driver will be waiting at the airport to whisk you straight to your included accommodation in style.

4 nights of hostel accommodation

Don’t get stuck or overpay for accommodation when you first arrive. Kickstart your trip with 4 nights in a 4-6 bed dorm at a top-rated hostel in the heart of the Gold Coast or Melbourne. Meet new friends, check out the sights, chill, party - we’ll leave it up to you!

"Welcome to Australia" virtual orientation

Our virtual orientation will get you up to date with everything you need to know about living and working in Australia. You’ll be an Aussie in no time!

Local life essentials

Bar crawl (melbourne*).

You haven't been to Melbourne if you haven't experienced its nightlife, known for being the best in Australia - and why not do it in style? Join the city's #1 bar crawl with up to 100 others for an unforgettable night with VIP entry and free shots at four of the hottest bars around. *Melbourne arrivals only.

Surf lesson (Gold Coast*)

Surf's up! Feel on the top of the world and make everyone jealous back home while you catch waves on a 2-hour lesson at world famous Surfers Paradise beach. *Gold Coast arrivals only.

Skydeck tour (Melbourne*)

Get high in Melbourne by heading up 300m to the Southern Hemisphere's highest observation deck. Soak in breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding coastline. *Melbourne arrivals only.

Australian wildlife encounter (Gold Coast*)

Come and explore Australia's incredible native wildlife! Spend the day feeding kangaroos, cuddling koalas, and making some amazing memories. *Gold Coast arrivals only.

Aussie experience day (Melbourne*)

Time to get your Aussie on with your choice of an epic day trip! Option 1: Phillip Island - home to 32,000 little penguins.  Although these penguins are the smallest species of its kind in the world, they'll leave you with the biggest smile! Witness the fascinating Penguin Parade, as well as taking in some stunning coastal vistas. Option 2: Great Ocean Road - one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world. On your trip from Melbourne, take opportunities to snap incredible photos and spot Australian wildlife like kangaroos. Don't miss the incredible surf beaches and guided walk in a rainforest to the 12 Apostles in Port Campbell National Park. *Melbourne arrivals only.

Aussie experience day (Gold Coast*)

Your choice of two unforgettable day trips. Option 1:  Whale Watching - Embark on an unforgettable boat tour from Surfers Paradise witnessing the amazing spectacle of migrating humpback whales. Marvel at these beautiful giants, with the possibility of encountering dolphins and sea turtles (*only available May to October). Option 2: Rainforest tour   - Get lost in the depths of gorgeous tropical rainforest. Visit the majestic Natural Bridge and Springbrook National Park, renowned filming sites for UK's "I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here." Here, prepare to stumble upon exotic wildlife, lovely waterfalls, and incredible views. *Gold Coast arrivals only.

Great Barrier Reef excursion

Discover the beauty and mystique of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays! On a full-day sailboat excursion (lunch included), you can explore the world-famous Whitsunday Islands and even snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef. And, for the perfect finale to an unforgettable experience, you’ll get to enjoy a spectacular sunset cruise back to the shore.

Permanent accommodation resources

If permanent accommodation isn’t provided with your job opportunity, our local team can provide you with links and advice so you can find a place to stay. In most job locations, you’ll be able to connect with like-minded travellers who you could join for a fun house share.

Ongoing local team support

Global emergency line.

Feel confident knowing we have a worldwide emergency team on standby, 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday. 

gWorld access

Travel alone but never lonely with Social! An exclusive social network inside our gWorld app to talk, share & meet-up with other Global Travellers in your region, with a dedicated Community Manager.

Global Academy

Gain access to an ever-growing range of skills & languages to learn before & whilst you travel.

Invites to Global Getaways

Be invited to exclusive customer only bucket-list side trips, so you can meet new friends and see more of the world while abroad.

Marketplace deals

$250 off your next trip.

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Just in case it’s not clear already, we’re not an employment or recruitment agency. Read more

To qualify for this trip you must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18 - 35 years of age
• Be a citizen of an eligible country
• Have no criminal convictions in the past 5 years

Ask a question

Chat with us online now, or we can call you back for free, 24 hours Mon-Fri.

Can you picture it? You’re working on a tropical island at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. After cooling off with an afternoon swim, it’s time to meet your new international besties for a sunset beer at the local pub. Time to start planning the next great adventure. Outback road trip? Ski trip over to New Zealand? Or is it time for a quick jaunt up to Bali?

All this sorted without potentially spending over a month or longer hunting for a job in a foreign country with no income and your savings dwindling by the hour!

Get a job sorted before you land with our Guaranteed Job Match Pre-Arrival*, the ultimate way to explore another country without having to chew through your savings like most people who decide to wing it generally do.

Our robust trip planning process, perfected after serving tens of thousands of Global Travellers since 2008, includes visa guidance and a virtual interview you can do from the comfort of home.

Our team will be in your corner to answer any questions you or your family may have too, so you can exchange most of those nerves with pure excitement about the adventure of a lifetime ahead.

Accommodation? We can help with that as well. Your first 4 nights are covered at a top-rated hostel in the heart of Melbourne or Surfers Paradise, depending on where you choose to start out your adventure. After that, some jobs provide staff housing at a really low rate (but these ones can go quick).

If your job doesn’t, our team can provide you with links and advice on securing yourself a houseshare - yet another reason why going with Global means you get the best of the best with access to a local team and  two local offices in Melbourne & the Gold Coast (unlike our competitors).

As for the solo traveller side of things, you’ll have an instant friend group wherever you end up, too – even if you land a job in a tiny town in the Outback. How? 

Because our social network app – gWorld – connects you with other Global Travellers in your area. So you can go on a hike, meet at the pub, talk to someone with the same accent as you.

We take care of pretty much everything so you don’t have to. 

And when it’s time for a change of scenery during or after your initial job, book a short and cheap flight up to Asia. Or better yet - hop on an exclusive Global Getaway alongside other Global Travellers to a bucket-list location!

And lucky you – you’re earning more than enough in full-time positions where you get 100% of your earnings (unlike some recruitment agencies), with Australia paying around A$23/hr or more, to thrive and still have some left over for spontaneous trips or general shenanigans. 

As you embark on this side trip, you can rest assured knowing that the thrill of exploration won't be dampened by worries of your adventure overseas coming to an end. Why?

Because you've shared your aspirations with your dedicated Trip Coordinator, expressing your desire to pursue your included second country job match, in a fresh and captivating corner of the globe. We know that after this first experience you probably won’t want to go home just yet, so with your newfound work & travel confidence and know-how, head somewhere new to keep on exploring.

Our team springs into action, mapping out the vast possibilities across borders. Will your next endeavor lead you to working at a mountain resort in New Zealand? Perhaps as an English Tutor for a summer in the south of France? You decide. All backed up with our support and app. Work, travel, rinse & repeat!

BUT! There’s a catch….

Most travellers book their trip 6-12 months in advance, or more! Dates are flexible, but spaces are limited, and intakes are closing off regularly without much notice. So if you’re serious about living in Canada, check dates & prices now to get things started before you’re too late, or too old.

With our Book Now, Decide Later option, you can get started with a small deposit today, and take up to a full year to choose your dates. 

We’ll take over from there, helping you with visas, flights, accommodation, and matching you with a job opportunity before you go*. 

If you’re after the ultimate, and the best, working holiday to Australia out there, complete with everything you need and 24/7 worldwide support, click the red box and follow the quick & easy steps to secure your spot. You, your parents and your bank account should thank us later.

If you’re looking for less, but still want to travel with the best, check out our other Working Holiday in Australia package too (but this one is our best & most popular).

Requirements

To qualify for this trip you must meet the visa requirements , and have 6 months of paid work experience by time of arrival.

What extra costs will I have?

Flights, travel insurance, visa, criminal background check, souvenirs & spending money.

Your Working Holiday in Australia (Plus) trip is designed to help you find local, seasonal employment as a means to fund your travels further, and for cultural exchange. Our goal is to save you time, money, and stress while eliminating the risk of returning home early. Here’s how we do it:

Before you leave

Day 3 & 4.

We’re on your side from the moment you get started. You’ll be assigned a dedicated Trip Coordinator. They’ll guide you through the next steps and answer all your questions. They’ll also help you with the pesky visa. No guesswork – only the right paperwork, approved the first time, and in your hands well before you leave. 

Your personal Travel Concierge will help with flights, insurance, and any add-ons you’d like for your trip. These are real humans too – no robots here. 

Most travellers have their job match before they’ve left home. If you haven’t had yours within 4 days of arriving, we’ll extend your accommodation for free until you do. And if you’re not successful with your first interview - no biggy! We’ll just keep trying (*see TCs for details).

Working Holiday jobs & locations in Australia 

Land an entry to mid-level job in Australia which will be fun and social, so you can make friends, learn new skills and have the freedom to explore down under! Located all across the country, here’s a list of the industries most of our Australian Partner Organisations are in, and where you can expect to find yourself being matched with too!

• Hospitality, like bars, cafés & restaurants
• Tourism, such as theme parks & tours
• Island Resorts & Hotels
• Ski Resorts (Not a typo!)
• Australian Outback
• Second Year Visa roles
• Labour & Construction
• Sales & Promotions 

Important to remember:  The host company decides who they hire and for what, so you need to be flexible & open minded. You’ll be matched with something you are suitable for.

From coastal towns to rural landscapes and bustling cities, a working holiday in Australia offers a wide selection of iconic locations. We’ve got connections to host companies dotted all over the country, so you could find yourself working in any of these Australian destinations!

• Melbourne 
• Brisbane 
• Fraser Island
• Port Douglas
• The Outback
• Whitsunday Islands

We'll try for your preferences, but locations are subject to availability at your time of arrival.

Robert H Very happy to be in Australia, good help from Global Work and Travel. Nice to have everything sorted out for me and helped with everything. Accommodation is good and nice to meet new people from around the world. Lovely city and good weather.

Luke H Top tier service! Would travel with them again. They have been very helpful with my flight and living conditions. The people on the phone have been very patient and my meeting at the Global headquarters went very smoothly. Can't say enough good things about this travel agency.

Raimundo T Very good service and the staff are exceptionally helpful. I found the experience thus far fun and enjoyable. Australia is extremely hot however this has not hindered my level of excitement from being here at this current moment. It is fun and the people are nice.

Ashley E Stacey has been so helpful and kind through all the processes with getting me to New Zealand. She is very friendly and I love how everyone who I have spoken to is just so welcoming and it instantly feels like I have already made friends. Everyone really lightens the mood and real ... Read more

Taylore-Beth S The service was amazing and very thing was done smoothly and stress free. Will highly recommend to friends and family.

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Frequently asked questions.

As the world’s leading gap-year and "work & travel" company, we pride ourselves on providing a premium service for Global Travellers. Choose from a variety of awesome experiences worldwide, and let us assist you with visas, pre-departure preparations, flights, insurance, and tours. Throughout your journey, our cool tech features will support you every step of the way. As a Global Traveller, gain access to gWorld, our personalised app designed to enhance your travel experience. Keep important documents and trip details handy, and take advantage of exclusive Marketplace deals, a vibrant social network, language learning resources, side trips, meet-ups, and more. It's like having all your favorite travel apps merged into one, but even better! But our support doesn't end there. With four international offices, over 100 dedicated staff members, a 24/5 emergency team, and the backing of over 90,000 Global Travellers who have turned their travel dreams into reality with us, rest assured you're in good hands. We also proudly boast the most and best reviews in the biz, and maintain a massive following on our social channels including Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Embark on your next adventure with confidence and ease. Join us and discover the world in a meaningful way!

While we would love to include flights and insurance in our trip packages, it is not feasible to have a fixed price due to the diverse destinations, trip durations, and individual coverage needs of our travellers from around the globe. However, once you register for the trip, we will assign you a dedicated Travel Concierge. They will work closely with you to arrange the ideal flights and insurance tailored to your specific adventure. Rest assured, our team is here to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience from start to finish!

When it comes to accommodation, we have some great options available for you. Many of our partner organisations offer staff accommodation as a fantastic perk. This usually entails a shared apartment or house with other like-minded travelers, conveniently located near your job. The best part is that these accommodations are often available at a subsidised rate, allowing you to save more toward side trips and fun! In the event that staff accommodation is not included with your job match, don't worry. Your Arrival Coordinator will be there to provide you with valuable resources and helpful tips on finding a suitable place to stay.

The Standard and Plus Working Holiday trips offer similar features, such as our comprehensive job matching process. However, there are a couple key differences between the two: Standard: With the Standard trip, you will receive a guaranteed job match prior to your arrival*. Plus: The Plus trip includes a guaranteed job match prior to your arrival*, just like the Standard trip. In addition, it offers the unique benefit of a 2nd job match in an entirely new country! This includes any Working Holiday, Au Pair or Tutor trip we offer, except USA, Germany & South Korea. Visa guidance will also be provided, TCs apply. Along with this, the Plus trip also provides additional tours and a side trip to enhance your experience. If you like the idea of working and travelling in more than one country, the Plus option is best suited for you. It provides the opportunity for ongoing exploration and variety during your time abroad. No need to make a decision right away on which option to choose. If you initially book the Standard trip, you can always upgrade to the Plus trip after getting registered and connecting with your dedicated Trip Coordinator.

While we strive to take your preferences into account, it's important to note that we are not a recruitment agency. Therefore, we cannot guarantee job matches in specific professions, fields, or locations. As a foreign worker on a temporary visa, it can be challenging to compete with locals for more specialised positions. Employers often prioritise candidates they can train and retain in the long term, rather than taking a risk on someone who may leave in a year or two, or less. However, the jobs we help organise on your working holiday will offer a fantastic experience. They will be enjoyable and social, allowing you to make new friends, acquire new skills, and have the freedom to explore exciting new places. Our aim is to provide you with an amazing working holiday experience, where you can embrace adventure and create unforgettable memories.

A job match is a seamless process designed to help you secure a suitable job opportunity. Here's how it works: First, we arrange an interview for you, taking into consideration your preferences whenever possible. The interviews are typically conducted virtually over platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime, making it convenient for you to participate from the comfort of your home before you embark on your trip. The key to a successful job match is simple: attend the interview on time and approach it just like any other professional interview. By demonstrating professionalism and enthusiasm, you'll increase your chances of securing a job offer without any complications. In the unlikely chance you are unsuccessful with your initial interview, our team will get to work organising you another interview. You can rest assured we are committed to finding the right opportunity for you and guiding you through each and every step of the job matching process to ensure success. For more details, please refer to your booking conditions.

Absolutely! While the jobs we help you land usually provide full-time hours, they often come with flexibility that will allow you to take time off for side trips, exploring, and fun. We understand the importance of travel experiences, and our aim is to provide opportunities that balance work and leisure. While the level of flexibility can vary based on the specific job and employer, we strive to match you with positions that provide allowances or arrangements for time off. This way, you can plan and enjoy additional adventures before, during, or after your work placement!

Ever since our inception in 2008, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional job opportunities to our travellers. We take pride in having built the largest network of partner organisations across the country, all vetted and perfectly suited to host a working holidayer. One of the greatest advantages of going Global is that we streamline the entire process for you, meaning, you won't need to go through the hassle of attending job fairs (like our competitors make you do) or spending countless hours job hunting. We take care of the hard work by understanding your job and location preferences, then connect you with one of our awesome partner organisations. We then ensure you are well-prepared for the interview, to help you land a job before you leave home*. To explore all the amazing options available, we invite you to check out our Working Holiday jobs & locations section located above.

The benefits of doing a Working Holiday trip are numerous. It offers you the opportunity to experience a new country, immerse yourself in a different culture, gain international work experience, develop new skills, make lifelong connections, and create unforgettable memories. It is a chance to combine travel and work while exploring a new destination.

We provide comprehensive support throughout your Working Holiday trip, from the initial planning stages until your return home. Our team is available to assist you with visa applications, job placements, accommodation options, and ongoing support from our worldwide offices while you are overseas, including a 24/5 emergency line. We also provide pre-departure guidance and resources to help you prepare for your adventure.

Absolutely! While the earning potential may vary based on your destination and job type, the income you'll receive is more than sufficient to support you comfortably while abroad. It can cover all your living expenses, accommodation, transportation, and even allows for savings to explore your new home or continue travelling afterward. Additionally, many of our partner organisations offer fantastic perks like discounted staff housing, food and beverage, ski passes, and more, helping you save money and make the most of your Working Holiday experience.

After the last unexpected disruption to travel caused by the..c word..people are now more eager than ever to venture out and explore the world, determined not to miss out on any experiences. Global Work & Travel works on a first-in-best-dressed basis. Booking earlier ensures that you don’t miss out on the best intake, season, placements and more! We recommend our travellers take 6-12+ months to plan their trip for a reason - to make sure you’ve got everything organised perfectly, stress-free. As a Global Traveller you’ll get exclusive access to gWorld, our personalised app where you can keep all of your important documents and trip details in one spot and gain insider access to everything Global. This is where you will find exclusive Marketplace Deals, a unique social network to connect you with other like-minded Global Travellers, access to our Academy with an ever-growing range of skills & languages, and so much more. Think all of your favourite apps merged into one, but like, better? Why not give yourself something to look forward to by booking that trip!

Yes you can! Simply tell your Trip Coordinator after booking that your friend is also going and they can link your profiles. For most of our trips we should be able to have you and your friends placed together or nearby. Meaning that you can live, work, play & travel together! But wait there's more! Not only can you travel the world with your besties at your side, you can also earn some extra cash towards your own trip just by referring your friends to Global Work & Travel. You can learn more about the great referral rewards program inside your gWorld account once you join. And for those who decide to go-it-solo, we’ve made it easier to meet other Global Travellers in the same region as you. Just like any other social platform, you’ll be able to interact, share, chat and meet with some really cool people who are doing trips just like you!

At Global Work & Travel, we share a deep love for animals and fully understand the special bond you have with your pet. We recognise the challenges of embarking on a trip without them. Due to travel restrictions, requirements, and limited pet-friendly accommodations among our host organisations, we regretfully cannot facilitate their inclusion in the journey. However, many of our customers choose to entrust their pets to a family member or friend, embark on their adventure, and return home to wagging tails and furry cuddles.

We know that life can get in the way of travel, so all our trips come with a great deal of flexibility. In most cases, if you cannot travel on your selected date, you can place your trip on hold to deal with whatever is holding you back, and continue in the future without incurring any penalty. You may also have the option of transferring to an entirely different trip and destination as well, or even transferring your trip to a friend or family member. In the event that you need to outright cancel your trip, if you give us 84* days notice you can do so with only a 50% cancellation fee. Your refund of the balance will come in the form of a Store Credit which you can put toward any other trip that we offer, including tours through third-party providers, as well as holidays through DealsAway.com, and is valid for 2 years from date of issue. As international travel can be complex, your options are based on the progress of your trip organisation and our support team can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

1. Choose a trip style

Find your dream experience & destination, then secure your spot with a flexible & low deposit. Activate your gWorld to unlock some cool perks. Well done! The hardest part’s over!

2. We become friends

Book a time to meet your dedicated Trip Coordinator who knows all the ins & outs of your trip. They’ll be by your side and working behind-the-scenes to pull everything together.

3. Time to go!

We’ll get your tickets, accommodation & transfers ready. Our in-country team or partner will have everything prepared & waiting for your arrival. Get on the plane with no worries!

4. 24/5 support

Never stress, knowing we’re there with you when you need us with ongoing & unlimited local team support. And just in case, we’ve got an emergency team on stand-by, 24 hours, Mon-Fri.

Still have questions?

Why go global, flexible trips.

The unexpected can happen sometimes. Can't travel right now? Swap your trip, gift it or save it for later with our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee.

Worldwide support

Know that someone is always ready to assist throughout the journey & they’re only a call, tweet, comment, text or double tap away, 24/5.

We're the experts

With over 10 years in the industry and a team of over 90 passionate pros, you can bet we know our stuff better than anyone else.

Partner network

We have over 1,200 partners around the globe, so we have access to plenty of exclusive opportunities to make your trip the best it can be.

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10 Things to Know Before You Work & Travel in Australia

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Clock out quick—it's time to catch some waves!

Do you dream of work and travel in Australia? Right on! Here are a few things to know before you go deeper into planning your journey abroad.

Sunshine, sandals, and... paychecks. Working in Australia is a popular right of passage for many young expats keen for adventure and sustained world traveling. With dozens of job possibilities, thousands of opportunities, and a little thing called the Australian Work Visa program , it’s no wonder that intrepid globetrotters head south to Oz every year in droves. 

But is it all tan lines and cute animals? What should you be prepared for as you plan your own work abroad stint in Australia? We’re glad you’re asked. Traveling and working in Australia is about as close to a walk in the (very sun-soaked) park as you can get. Read on as we share our must-know tips for those considering work and travel in Australia .

Pro tips for working in Australia

1. there are a lot of different jobs to consider..

Australia’s working holiday visa programs has made it an attractive destination for practical long-term travelers for years. We’re not really sure which came first. The fun, temporary jobs abroad in a variety of sectors? OR the hoards of international travelers looking for fairly low level, low commitment jobs? It’s a real chicken or egg situation (or are we say cassowary or egg situation).

The most popular short term jobs abroad in Australia are in the hospitality (hostel employment, bartending, barista gigs) and agriculture (physical labor like harvesting crops) sectors. You can also find plentiful work as an au pair abroad and in entry-level marketing and communications positions. If you have your sights set on mid-level or advanced positions, there’s absolutely opportunities for you—it’ll just require a more polished resume and more power heels and dress shoes in your backpack than thongs (flip flops!!!). Not to worry though, because companies like Alliance Abroad or InterExchange are here to assist you through every step of the process!

2. Australia is really, really big—and diverse.

You might look at that country populating the southeast corner of your map and think, “Sure, Australia is big, but I can conquer it all pretty easily.” Think again. A flight from Perth to Brisbane—on opposing coastlines—will take you 4.5 hours. The vast Red Center takes hours (if not days) to cross by train. The tropical rainforests of the northeast give way to one of the biggest deserts on the planet. You can find shrubs and low lying grasses across the southern coastline.

Plenty of options in Oz for a more urban experience—or you can plan to go further afield & work abroad in the Red Center!

Mountains more your style? Stick to traveling and working in Australia in Sydney and the east coast. Love feeling “away from it all” (except maybe quokkas?)? There’s an entire state for you: Western Australia. Laid back, artsy, and uber cultural destinations like Melbourne are a nice respite from the dusty, sun soaked, indigenous vibes of Alice Springs and provide yet another unique Aussie experience for the engaged traveler. Moral of the story: Australia is chock full of unique locations to explore, all overflowing with a variety of cultures and customs to experience.

And if you love to spend your time off the clock by the water, you’d be hard pressed to find a destination with more mileage of beautiful coastline. Talk about a good tan!

3. You need to secure your work visa—but not your employment—in advance.

It’d be really awesome if you could just land in Oz after your direct LAX —> SYD flight and get hired ASAP, but alas, the world doesn’t work this way. You need to research and coordinate your application for a working holiday visa in advance of arriving to Australia.

On the bright side, so long as you fulfill the minimum requirements and can fork out the fees, you are close to guaranteed access to this work abroad opportunity. Further, you don’t need to secure your employment in advance, which gives you a lot of flexibility to find opportunities as they arise. However, companies exist to assist you in securing working opportunities before transitioning to Australia, making your Australian journey that much more smooth from the start! 

And one more bright side: Your visa isn’t attached to employment for a single organization, company, etc. You can move about at-will!

4. The fashion culture is unique—it's not all khaki!

Khaki is out! You might be browsing the internet in search of shades of tans and greens to stuff in your suitcase—“To look like the locals, of course!” And while we applaud your interest and efforts to be culturally sensitive, the khaki has got to go. While some might think Australia is simply removed from many common conventions, that simply is not the case. In fact, the land down under is very keen on staying with the trends. You can dress in western fashion for most employment in Australia but will want to bring additional tools or equipment if you’re planning for specific jobs (i.e. leather work gloves for hard labor).

You'll fit right into Aussie's laidback, western fashion sensibilities

Outside of work, showing off skin is fine, as are yoga pants. There’s a very laid back approach to modesty and fashion, which allows you to let your own style dictate your wardrobe.

While we’re on the subject of stereotypes that aren’t quite true: Aussies don’t actually put shrimp on the barbie. They put prawns on ‘em.

5. You’ll earn money in the Aussie dollar.

While traveling and working in Australia, you’ll be earning the local currency—Aussie dollars (or notes)! The Australian dollar is a strong, stable currency. Some jobs may pay you direct in cash, whereas others will set up direct deposits or even distribute checks for every pay period. It would be wise for you to create a system in advance for where you plan to store your income (in a local bank). If you do opt for the local bank, be sure to transfer bulk amounts of cash periodically back to your home bank account. If you do this systematically, you can avoid hefty transfer fees over time! 

6. Eating out will cost you a pretty penny.

There are some destinations where eating out is encouraged, as the food is cheap and plentiful and wonderful. There are others where affordable street food reigns and you can live like a king. And then there’s Australia, where a cup of coffee can cost you $5 and a lunchtime meal can easily be upwards of $20.

While there are certainly budget options out there (*mmm meat pies*), you should be prepared to make a game plan for feeding yourself through home cooked meals whenever possible. A life of white bread and vegemite isn’t one we’d encourage (though you should still try it!), but having some basic pasta dishes or favorite salads in your back pocket is smart planning. Ideally, these meals can be easily made in a shared kitchen!

7. You don’t have to work on land.

Work in Australia on a tourist boat or as a SCUBA instructor!

Do you dream of a life at sea? Then all aboard, baby! Dozens of vessels make daily trips for tourists to the beautiful coral reefs or nearby islands, and working on these boats can be a “salty experience” (in the right way). Become a ship hand, chef, or other crew member. Dream big, captain! 

Tourism is another area of employment that is poppin’ for international travelers. While the pay might be less than ideal, you’ll walk away rich in experience and waterlogged with new skills. Not bad for a trip abroad!

8. For professional jobs, you need to bring your A game.

If you’re looking to add some serious sauce to your resume with a full-time job in Australia, come prepared with your best foot forward. The financial centers of Sydney, Brisbane, and Canberra offer dozens of jobs in finance, banking, and business.

These jobs are incredibly competitive and will require you to have that extra “oomph” to hire you instead of a local. You should treat these lines of work with the same earnest and professionalism that you would afford to an application in your home country.

9. You should take your job seriously, no matter what you do!

Finding jobs abroad in Australia is NOT synonymous with backpacking and traveling in Australia. While you can absolutely adventure with your new mates and see some pretty amazing sites (Uluru is a *must*), your focus should remain on the commitments you make as an employee to a company.

True meaningful travelers follow through with their work and do their best to integrate into the local communities, both in their workplace and beyond. They add value rather than only extract, and part of doing this is holding yourself accountable to the job that you have taken. This doesn’t mean that you have to stay forever or that there aren’t bummer jobs out there on the market that you should consider leaving, but we do recommend that you keep your intentions top of mind with every decision you make as expats in Australia.

Don’t give us (traveling Americans and other nationals) a bad rap in Oz, pretty please?

10. There are organizations that can make working abroad in Australia even easier.

Work in a hostel in exchange for free room & board! There are plenty of paid jobs abroad in Australia to choose from—and even more organizations out there that can help.

One way to approach working abroad in Australia is to wing it. Arrive in-country with your work visa, head to that hostel you pre-booked online, and start to network and get a lay of the land. You might end up getting a little desperate after a few weeks with no bites to your resume, and end up taking a job you *did not* envision for yourself (law office secretary?).

For example, if you want to bypass the potential stress of low quality employment, consider hiring an organization, such as Alliance Abroad or BUNAC. They'll secure and coordinate beneficial employment on your behalf (fo' real!). This not only takes the unexpected out of the equation but can hook you up with ancillary services like on-the-ground support or even instant community with other program participants. 

Immediate paycheck, immediate friends, and a person to turn to if you get in a pickle. Not bad if you ask us! This can be the final notch on your to-do list to an amazing experience traveling and working in Australia.

Next steps to work and travel in Australia

Now that you have the inside scoop and know where many would-be expats fail in their job hunt, it's time to choose who you want to work abroad through! Choosing a work abroad program isn't as hard as it sounds, especially if you follow these steps:

• Decide where to go. Figuring out where YOU should work abroad is paramount. Have a short list of Australian cities that sound ideal for your goals. Don't let your experience (or lack thereof!) hold you back—choose a place that's right for you.
• Pick your job. Do some reflection on what skills and knowledge you bring to the table, and which type of company or organization—and role within—would best benefit from your time and energy.
• Choose from the best work abroad programs in Australia. Pay attention to past participants’ reviews, program/university reputation, location, and how the project's needs match your skills. Some programs may even share contact info for ambassadors or past participants if you want the REAL dirt. Here are more considerations to make as you figure out how to choose the right job program for you. Pro tip: You can use MyGoAbroad to compare programs side-by-side.
• Plan your finances. Sort out funding before you go to afford daily essentials and splurge on travel (in addition to program costs and airfare). Learning how to save for jobs abroad is essential prior to your travels!
• Get prepared! Preparing to work and move abroad is as fun as it sounds. With the days til departure number dwindling and your excitement boiling, it can be easy to overlook the details. Lean on us to help guide you through your pre-departure process—that's what we're here for.

Run quick to these temporary jobs in Australia

Get in touch with your wild side while doing farm work in Australia.

The Australian work visa is a magical ticket to adventure in one of the coolest—not to mention the oldest—places on earth. Wash your hands in the world’s oldest river after a long day of apple picking. Share a smile with a weary traveler as you show them their room in the hostel. Tag along with on your new au pair family’s vacation to the Whitsundays. Give a powerful presentation on potential earnings to high brow executives.

Whatever your style and goals for working abroad in Australia, remember this: vegemite and cheese is a delicious combo. We mean, um, just keep swimming. ;-) You’ll have the time of your life while working in Australia!

Get Matched with 5 Work Abroad Programs in Australia for FREE

This article was written with help from Alliance Abroad . Alliance Abroad is a cultural exchange organization that specializes in offering a variety of programs that enable individuals to work and travel in Australia anywhere from six months to four years!

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How to apply for a Working Holiday visa

If spending a year Down Under is on your hit list, here’s how to go about getting an Australian Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).

Working Holiday visa application FAQs

If you’re aged between 18 and 30 (or 18 to 35 in some cases) then you may be. On this page, we’ll give you all the details you need to apply for WHV subclass 417, which is what you need if you hold a valid passport for any of the following countries:

Belgium; Canada; Republic of Cyprus; Denmark; Estonia; Finland; France; Germany; Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (including British National Overseas passport holders); Republic of Ireland; Italy; Japan; Republic of Korea; Malta; Netherlands; Norway; Sweden; Taiwan (other than an official or diplomatic passport); and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

If you hold a passport from Argentina, Austria, Chile, The People's Republic of China, Czech Republic, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Peru, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, USA, Uruguay or Vietnam, you’ll need to apply for a Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462), for which you can  find the details here .

Whether you’re applying for your first or second Working Holiday visa (subclass 417), you need to be aged between 18 and 30 (or 18 to 35 in some cases). To find out which age range applies to you, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

You can still apply for a visa if you are in your final year of age eligibility.

Applying for WHV 417 is a straightforward process. Go online, create an  ImmiAccount  and fill out the details. You’ll need a number of documents on hand to aid in the process, including:

• the pages of your passport showing your name, personal details and passport issue and expiry dates; and
• a copy of your birth certificate showing both parents’ names.

Anyone who can’t provide a birth certificate should provide a copy of the identification pages of one of the following documents:

• a family book showing both your parents’ names;
• government-issued identification; or
• a court-issued document that verifies your identity.

If you’ve ever changed your name, you’ll also need to provide a marriage or divorce certificate, change of name documents from a relevant overseas authority, and documents showing other names you’ve been known by.

You should have copies of your bank account showing you have adequate funds to support yourself (usually the equivalent of AUD $5000), as well as a return air ticket or extra funds to be able to pay for your journey home.

You may be asked to provide character documents, including military records, but someone will contact you if they’re needed.

You need to first to create an  ImmiAccount , which is easy and allows you to save your application at any time and go back to it later if you realise you need extra information or different documents. Set aside a couple of hours to make sure you fill out the form correctly, and add all supporting documentation required.

All documents you attach to your WHV application must be in English. Those that aren’t, have to be supplied with a translation that includes the translator’s details. You’ll need clear, colour scans or photographs of each of these documents. If a document has more than one page, it should be saved as a single file.

Most applications are processed within 14 days, but it can take longer if you don’t fill out the online form correctly or forget to attach the right documents. Once your visa has been granted, you have 12 months to fly to Australia and begin using it.

When you apply for your WHV, you’ll have to pay AUD $635. There may be extra costs relating to health checks, police certificates or biometrics (facial photograph and finger prints). Be sure to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest information.

If you’re applying for a WHV from a country with a high risk of tuberculosis, you may need to undergo a medical examination and chest X-ray.

Ultimately, you’re responsible for any health debts you run up while you’re visiting Australia. Our public healthcare system, called Medicare, has reciprocal agreements with some countries (Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden, and the UK) that will cover the costs of care from illness or injury that can’t wait until you return home. 

For visitors from New Zealand and Ireland, non-hospital care is not covered. This reciprocal arrangement only lasts for six months for Italian and Maltese citizens.

Otherwise, you must have sufficient travel or health insurance to cover the costs of illness and accidents while you’re travelling and working.

You should have savings equivalent to AUD $5000 – be prepared to show proof of the money you have in your bank account. On top of your savings, you should have a return air ticket or enough funds to pay for a flight home.

This WHV allows you to stay in Australia for 12 months from the day you enter the country. You can either stay for the entire 12 months or leave and re-enter as many times as you like during that period.

You can apply to stay for an additional year in Australia with an extension on your WHV. For residents of most countries, you must have undertaken at least three months of specified work in approved industries including plant and animal cultivation, fishing and pearling, tree farming and felling, mining and construction. To find out how to do it, head to our  hints and tips here .

Note : Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority.  The visa granting authority is the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. For up-to-date information, please refer to their website:  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417 .

The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.  Please consult with an Australian qualified immigration lawyer or migration agent if you are seeking legal advice.

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• American Summers

Work & Travel Australia

Experience living and working in austrailia.

While a working holiday in Australia is quite a new concept for Americans, it’s a rite of passage, a matter of when, not if, for many young people across the globe. Their friends and family have done it and exclaim ‘you just have to do it’. A working holiday in Australia can offer you so much, it allows you to get out of our comfort zone, experience living and working in a new country, meeting new people, picking up new skills and broadening your horizons and opinions on matters further afield than your front door. A working holiday in Australia is a truly life changing experience that can only benefit you on a personal, and professional level. For an employer, someone that has done a working holiday, demonstrates that they are adaptable, independent, flexible, dynamic, organized, can think on their feet and isn’t overawed by new challenges.

So Why Australia?

Australia has so much to offer. This is a country that is home to:

• The Great Barrier Reef
• Global cities such as Sydney and Melbourne
• K’Gari (Fraser Island), world’s biggest sand island
• Uniquely incredible wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos
• It’s a place where you can surf, ski and scuba dive, all within a week if you want!

So how does a working holiday in Australia work?

Americans are able to get a Work and Holiday visa ($462AUD). Some facts about the visa:

• It is for people between 18-30: This is a pretty big age gap and gives a lot of people the opportunity to participate.
• It lasts 12 months (initially): This is great as it means that you have time to experience working in different places, as well as travel around, ticking off your Aussie bucket list.
• It can be extended: By doing specified work (rural work, tourism and hospitality) in specific areas, you’re eligible to get a 2nd and 3rd year visa.
• The 2nd and 3rd year visas don’t have to be used immediately: This is great because it means you can complete your first year and the specified work within it, then decide whether you immediately extend your visa or return at another time.
• The Wages Are High: Australian wages are very good. The minimum wage is $19.83AUD for full- time work and $25.41AUD for casual work.
• Businesses love internationals: So many different businesses love to enrich their workforce by employing the working holiday participants. This works especially well in seasonal jobs.
• There are so many other people just like you: Over 200,000 a year do a working holiday in Australia.

Watch this video and be inspired by fellow Americans that recently did a working holiday in Australia.

Job Opportunities

In-depth, customized employment help.

Understandably, getting a job is something that is on the front of people’s minds. You’ll be in a new country, with no contacts and no previous work experience there.  Welcome to Travel’s founders were previously working holiday makers and they understand your needs and wants firsthand. They’ve used their, their team’s and all of their travelers’ experience to create in depth, customized employment help for when you arrive.

This includes

• An employment presentation
• CV/Resume Writing Help
• Interview Questions Help
• Australia workplace specific advice
• Access to a live job portal
• A 2-hour employment and travel advice 1:1 meeting (on tour)
• Access to an employer database
• Regular job opportunities emailed
• Monthly Work and Travel Drop in Clinics

Just like the accommodation help, as long as you’re in Australia, our partner Welcome to Travel will be able to help with your employment needs. A lot of people also want to know what they can earn when in Australia.

Hospitality is a hugely popular sector for people on a working holiday. Australia doesn’t have a tipping culture and the tip you’d expect in the US, is already factored into wages in Australia, where wages are high.

The minimum wage is:

• Part-Time/Full-Time: $19.83AUD
• Casual Work: $25.41AUD

We’ve explained more on wages and cost of living in these really helpful blogs and vlogs here:

• The Positive Change to Fruit Picking Wages
• The Big Mac Equation
• How does Australia’s Minimum Wage Compare?

On the IENA Work & Travel Australia Program, you can take any job you are qualified to do, but can only work for the same employer for six months’ maximum. Work and Holiday Visa holders can take casual incidental work to supplement their income while exploring this amazing country. If you would prefer to stay in one location, that is okay too! It’s your choice! We have hundreds of live job listings which are no more than 3 weeks old. Find current job listings .

I think this program is an amazing opportunity for inner growth and I would recommend it to anyone who wants a life-changing experience.

Accommodations

Welcome week.

Our Partner – Welcome to Travel’s Hosts Welcome Weeks which include 7 nights dorm accommodation. Having your first week is such a great feeling as it means you can relax and get used to a Country and City, with that added support. Not only this but they are also able to help organize your accommodation before and after the tour, whether that’s another night in the same hostel, or a week’s accommodation 3500km away. Not only can they do that, they offer advice on longer term accommodation in an apartment/house in Australia. As long as you’re in Australia, Welcome to Travel is able to help with your accommodation needs.

To give you an idea on the cost of accommodation, check out our estimates below:

• Extra hostel night with Welcome to Travel: $35AUD
• Long term hostel: $165-$220 AUD a week
• Room in an apartment: $180-$250AUD a week

Travel Information

What to see in australia.

Enough about working, let’s talk about travelling around this incredible country. The best thing about Australia’s high wages is it means more money to experience more things, in more places!

From surf to desert to city, Australia really does have it all and the list of travelling opportunities is well and truly endless. Australia’s golden trail for travelers is the East Coast. The traditional East Coast route is the 2500km of road stretching from Melbourne to Cairns.

There are thousands of backpackers and students on their own journey but on a similar path, getting the experiences they want to. This journey includes all of those places you’ve heard of such as:

• Surfers Paradise
• Fraser Island
• Whitsundays
• Magnetic Island

On this route you can experience incredible things such as:

• Surf world class surf beaches
• Visit 1 of 2 Everglades National Parks
• Watch sunset in Australia’s most easterly point
• Drive a 4WD around the world’s biggest sand island
• Spend 2 days/2 nights on the Whitsunday Islands, visiting the World’s Best Beach
• Snorkel or Scuba Dive The Great Barrier Reef
• Visit the World’s Oldest Rainforest

With so many travelers in Australia, there are plenty of great options for travelling around. You can choose to travel the East Coast in a car or campervan rental with friends, or by taking the bus. The bus is perfect for solo travelers as the ticket last for 3 months and lets you get off in one town, explore the place for a few days before getting back on the bus to the next town when you’d like to move on. This is called a Hop-On Hop Off bus pass and it’s extremely cost effective.

Once again, this throws up many questions and there are so many different things you can do. Welcome to Travel’s expertise really has no limits and they help with every single aspect of travelling Australia. You may want to book a 5 week East Coast trip, 1 day car hire in Brisbane, a 5 day Scuba Diving Trip on the Great Barrier Reef or a 3 month Campervan hire around the country, they can help with any of it.

Welcome to Travel is a great place to learn more about the East Coast, as well as get in touch for help on the adventure you’d like to take. Don’t worry if you’d like help travelling to somewhere other than the East Coast, they can do that too.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re looking to be inspired whilst also learning about Australia, check out Welcome to Travel’s helpful blogs and videos .

Questions About Traveling

Yes, you do! If you’re coming here just as a tourist to visit Australia, you’ll need a Visitor Visa. If you’re coming here to work while you’re on holiday, you’ll need either a Working Holiday Visa ($417AUD) or a Work and Holiday Visa ($462AUD), depending on which country you’re from. Find more information and a list of the various visas .

Questions About a Working Holiday in Australia

Our Partner – Welcome to Travel will provide exclusive tips, resources, and guidance towards finding a job and farm work in Australia.

They will provide you with all the basic information needed to get started, and give you access to Their huge database of employers and contacts in sectors such as hospitality, retail, construction, sales and marketing and many more. This is all before having a 1-on-1 meeting with them, where they will go over how they can specifically help you find work. They also send out a weekly update email that highlights the most recent job and farm work opportunities they come across.

Do I have to do farm/regional work? No! However, if you are on a working holiday visa ($417AUD) and want to extend your visa to a 2nd or even a 3rd year, then you would need to do some specified work, often farm work/rural work. All the necessary specifications can be found on the government website. How do I get a 2nd year and 3rd visa?

If you are on a Working Holiday Visa ($417AUD) or Work and Holiday Visa ($462AUD) then you need to complete at least 3 months of specified work in a specific area of Australia to earn a 2nd year visa.

The specified work differs between $417AUD and $462AUD visas. $462AUD visa holders have the additional sector of tourism and hospitality (in northern Australia only) added to the specified work list. You can find all the necessary specifications for a $417AUD visa and a  $462AUD visa on the government website.

How do I apply for a visa?

We recommend applying as soon as possible. The application can be completed through your travel agent, or directly through the same Australian Government website as above.

We always recommend checking Australian Government website for any specific inquiries.

What is Superannuation and am I entitled to it? Superannuation is Australia’s pension fund scheme.

Being on a working holiday, you’re entitled to have a superannuation account and your employers have to pay into this account. Do I need a bank account?

If you’re traveling as a tourist for just a few weeks, you don’t need one – a travel card will be great. With cheap rates, tiny fees and a really to use app, we always recommend Wise .

If you’re here for a longer period of time (for example, on a Working Holiday Visa) then it’s highly recommended to open an Australian bank account. It’s an extremely easy process that our Partner – Welcome tours will assist you with. Not only will you save a lot on exchange/transaction fees, but employers will only pay wages into an Australian account. Don’t worry about it now, Welcome tours will help set it up for you in the weeks leading up to your arrival.

What is a Tax File Number?

This is basically a personal identity number created for you by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It is required if you want to work in Australia, so that you can be correctly taxed on your income from day one.

You will provide this number to each employer you have while you are in Australia and your tax will be deducted from your wage accordingly, just as it would be in your home country.

Application and Fees

Stage 1 of the application.

Please set up an IENA account and complete the online IENA Outbound Program application. We will assess your application and then invoice you for payment of our program fee. After payment is processed and you are accepted to the program you will be emailed stage two of the application process.

Stage 2 of the Application

• Applying for your visa – don’t’ worry, IENA will provide step-by-step instructions and guidance on how to secure your visa!
• Booking your flight to Australia – IENA’s preferred travel provider can assist with flights.
• Purchasing travel and medical insurance – it is a visa requirement that you have proof of medical coverage (including medical evacuation and repatriation of remains) on entry to Australia. Note: You will not be covered under the socialized medical system in place in Australia.
• Job reference from a previous or current employer.

Application Deadlines: Please allow 4-6 weeks for application processing.

Program Fees

Essentials: $485

Other costs to consider for all options:

• Flights – Special flight deals are available through our preferred travel provider
• Travel and medical insurance (this is a visa requirement)
• Visa fee currently AU$485
• Support funds equivalent to AU$5,000 (this is a visa requirement)

Cancellation Conditions

If you cancel from the program before your stage two deadline you will be charged a cancellation fee of $100. If you cancel after you have reached stage two, no refund is possible.

Any cancellation must be received in writing and is only effective from the date we receive it. Please note that separate cancellation fees and conditions will undoubtedly apply to any flight bookings you make.

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Work in Australia

Find out everything you need to know about working in Australia before and after graduation. Know your work rights, get work ready and set yourself up for career success.

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Working while studying is a great way to gain practical experience and get a taste of the local culture. The Australian international student visa (subclass 500) allows you to work while you study. Look for jobs that offer flexible hours to balance your study and work commitments.

work Work hours

You can work up to 48 hours every two weeks while studying and unlimited hours during study breaks.

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Student visa holders granted offshore can start working once their course of study begins. However, different work rights can apply. Check your ImmiAccount to find out your visa conditions.

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You have the same protections at work as anyone else working in Australia.

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• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Travel and Work in Australia

Last Updated: October 30, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Deirdre Nero . Deirdre D. Nero is an Immigration & Nationality Law Attorney and the Founder of NERO Immigration Law, P.L., based in Miami, Florida. With nearly 20 years of experience, she specializes in business-based immigration, family-based immigration, and naturalization. She earned her law degree from the University of Miami School of Law and her BA from Florida State University. In 2014, Deirdre won Business Immigration Lawyer of the Year–Florida in the Global Mobility & Immigration Awards given by Acquisition International. She’s also earned an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which annually rates lawyers on their abilities and ethics. Additionally, South Florida Legal Guide named her a Top Lawyer in South Florida several years in a row. In 2019, Deirdre was honored to receive the Outstanding Entrepreneur Award at the 2019 AXA Businesswoman of the Year Awards by the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce and the Merrick in the Making Award by the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. In 2019 and 2021, Deirdre was named to Florida Trend Magazine’s Legal Elite. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 143,302 times.

Australia is a popular destination for expatriates. Many people enjoy the climate, culture and communities enough to seek temporary or permanent employment in the country. If you want to work in Australia, you will need to find an employment scheme that sponsors your work visa. There are different options available, depending upon your nationality. On your visa application, you will be awarded points based on your qualifications, which will then determine if you get a visa. This process can take anywhere from 3 months to 18 months, so you may want to get a travel visa to visit Australia in the meantime. Find out how to travel and work in Australia.

Australia Travel Options

• Any website that ends in .gov is an official government website—you can trust the information on there.

• This visa will cost $20. You can apply at www.eta.immi.gov.au. If you currently hold another type of visa, or you are applying after an ETA is expired, you may have to appear in person at an Australian consulate to reapply.

• Visit www.immi.gov.au/e_visa/evisitor.htm to start an eVisitor application. Charges will apply.

• Visit www.ecom.immi.gov.au/visas/app/uu?form=VSS to apply for a tourist visa. Some nationalities are not able to submit an online application. In this case, you will need to visit an Australian consulate.

• People from a specific list of countries, including the UK and many European countries, should apply for a subclass 415 visa to gain short term employment in Australia. [6] X Research source With this visa, you can stay and work for up to 12 months, study for up to 4 months and work during this period. Visit www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/417/how-to-apply.htm to get applications and learn how to complete them.
• People from various Asian and South American countries and the United States can apply for a subclass 462 visa. [7] X Research source The restrictions on this visa are similar to the subclass 415 visa; however, you can only work with 1 employer for a period of up to 6 months. Visit www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/462/usa/how-to-apply.htm to download applications and learn how to apply.

Australian Work Options

• Contact a recruiter in Australia to get help with finding a position. You can find recruiters through Internet searches, and you may be required to pay for their services. This is a good idea if you have a highly specialized profession that is listed on the SOL.
• Register for a free "work in Australia" online job board. These sites ask you to sign in and allow you to look for job boards.

• Visit www.immi.gov.au/skilled/_pdf/sol-schedule1.pdf to read the most up to date SOL.
• Do research on international companies that have bases in Australia. Applying for work in 1 of these companies may allow you to go through training in Australia or work in an Australian office.
• Search for applicable jobs in large Australian companies. Very large companies are more likely to hire international employees because they can afford the visa costs. Keep in contact with all of these companies and search often for new jobs.

• If you are planning a business visit, you will need to apply for an ETA or eVisitor visitor visa before being granted a subclass 956, 977 of 651 visa. Visit www.immi.gov.au/skilled/business/business-visit-visa-options.htm to find out how to apply.
• You will need to apply for a short stay business visa if you are not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor via. Visit the link above to apply for a subclass 456 visa. [11] X Research source

• Visit www.immi.gov.au/skillevents/upcoming-events.htm to view a list of these events.

Community Q&A

Things You'll Need

• Valid passport
• eVisitor visa
• Application fees
• "Skills Australia Needs" recruitment event
• Skilled Occupation List
• Business visa
• Employer sponsored visa
• Skilled independent visa

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Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about working abroad, check out our in-depth interview with Deirdre Nero .

• ↑ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/how-to-apply.html
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/repealed-visas/foreign-government-agency-visa-subclass-415
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-462
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsoring-workers/learn-about-sponsoring
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/repealed-visas/business-short-stay-visa-subclass-456
• ↑ https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189

About this article

If you want travel and work in Australia, apply for a working holiday visa, which allows you to travel and supplement your income with work for up to 12 months. Next, find an employer to sponsor your visa by contacting an Australia recruiter, or register for a free online job board. If you’re a professional working in a field such as medicine, engineering and computers, consult the skilled occupation list (SOL). Search for jobs in large companies, since they can afford the visa costs. For more information on traveling and working in Australia, including visa options for visits shorter than 12 months, keep reading. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Work and Travel in Australia

Work and Travel Australia! This word group alone awakens dreams of adventure, casual lifestyle, endless sunshine, and lots of seas. Australia has long been the strongest magnet among the backpacker destinations and even today it never lets its visitors down. Kangaroos, the Opera House, and the Great Barrier Reef are still great, and what makes Australia really special, the friendly people and the diverse landscape, even more so. Those who have lived and worked in Australia for one year will surely have found their second home here on the fifth continent.

Australia Remains Fascinating (and) Simple

Australia has simply killed all the birds with one stone: an extreme landscape, cosmopolitan cities, and a fantastic indigenous culture. The copper-red deserted outback is unique in the world; in contrast to this is a picturesque coastal region with a pulsating city bustle. And all this without any culture shock, because Australian cities are as well organized as we know them and the people are as friendly and casual as we like them. The best conditions to work and live here for a while.

Typical Aussie!

Tanned skin, casual sands, and anyway the whole day on the beach! What is really true about the stereotype Australian? What is really typical Aussie ?

Work and Travel Made Easy

The Working Holiday Visa for Australia offers the ideal start into the adventure Down Under for Work and Travellers up to 30 years. It is easy to apply for online and with 100 Euro it is quite affordable. There is also no limited allocation. Simply apply at the Australian Embassy website, print your visa and show it at the airport when you enter the country. There it is already available in electronic form, but the copy is still obligatory. It could not be simpler. Definitely a plus point for Work and Travel in Australia. The only drawback: You are not allowed to work for more than 6 months for one employer. Then you have to move on. But since it is not supposed to be a "Work and Stay", this is quite bearable.

The Start in The Big City

The best way to start the Work and Travel Down Under is to go to one of the bigger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, or Perth. Because first of all, working in Australia should come first, and the chances are good here. And if not there, at least many hostels or job search desks offer tips on where to look for work. Moreover, these cities are a magnet for work and travellers, to which they return again and again. Just a short small talk might be enough and you have already made more job contacts than you would after a night in an internet café. In general, however, backpackers with less job experience have better job opportunities outside the cities. After all, Australia is more than just Sydney, Melbourne, and Co.

Jobs in Australia

Work and Travel in Down Under means gaining international work experience while living Australian everyday life and exploring the diversity of the continent. Of course, this also includes enjoying island life and partying. But this is something you have to work on first. There are plenty of jobs available, especially in the gastronomy, tourism or farm work. Some of the jobs are paid and in others accommodation and food is provided. If you have special experience, you can also find good jobs as a nanny in Australia or in child and youth care. To ensure that you are responsible when serving alcohol, all jobs in bars and restaurants require an RSA certificate, which is best obtained online in advance. It's worth investing the time to plan, as the exam costs only AUD 50 online and AUD 140 on-site!

Expensive? Only at First Glance

That Australia is expensive is in any case no rumour. That expensive is only relative, but also. At first glance, food, restaurants, accommodation and transport may appear to be higher priced than at home and other Work and Travel countries like Canada, but one should not forget that salaries are higher than in Europe and life outside the big cities is much cheaper. More tips on how to calculate costs and save money can be found here!

Travel through Australia!

Australia is huge! Therefore transport - how and what costs are involved - is an important issue. But fortunately the infrastructure is very well developed in favour of the backpackers. During your job, in order to save money, you should preferably walk to your workplace, or in the best case even be accommodated there (like when working on a farm, for example). Otherwise, there are local buses or metro lines in the big cities, which are good ways to get from A to B. For your onward journey to the next town, the Greyhound interurban buses are particularly suitable. But also domestic flights and rental cars are available. If you have planned a lot of time for travelling after work, it is probably best to buy a car. With it, you will be well-equipped for your entire trip and you can sell it before you leave.

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Work and travel in Australia

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Global travel advisory

For all essential travel, check travel advisories and requirements before you leave Canada.

Follow all additional local public health measures while travelling.

Stay informed when you  return to Canada .

How to apply

Who can apply.

To work in Australia through the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417), you must

• be a Canadian citizen
• be between 18 and 35 years old (inclusive)
• have a valid Canadian passport

Other requirements may apply, check  Australia’s website  for more details.

What type of work visa do I need?

You need to apply for a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).

Do I need a formal job or internship offer?

No, you don’t need a job offer (prearranged contract of employment) or a formal internship offer.

In  most cases , you can work for the same employer for a maximum of 6 months.

How long can I stay and work?

You can participate in Australia’s Working Holiday program up to 3 times (for a total of 36 months).

For the first 12-month participation:  You can work for up to 12 months (typically 6 months maximum per employer) and study for up to 4 months. The total participation is 12 months.

For the second 12-month participation:  You can work for up to 12 months and study for up to 4 months. The total participation is 12 months.

• You can only participate if you completed at least  3 months  of “ Specified work ” while holding your  first  Working Holiday visa.

For the third 12-month participation:  You can work for up to 12 months and study for up to 4 months. The total participation is 12 months.

• You can only participate if you completed at least  6 months  of “ Specified work ” while holding your  second  Working Holiday visa.

Specified work

Specified work is work that is undertaken in a specific field or industry (typically in agriculture, construction, fishing, or mining) in a designated regional area (typically rural or remote communities).

Start your Adventure

About australia.

Australia is on the world’s smallest continent, but is the sixth-largest country. Its amazing geography includes mountains, deserts, tropical forests, cultural cities and over 23,000 kilometres of coastline. There is no shortage of things to see and do once you arrive! Find out how you can get to Australia with International Experience Canada.

Economy and jobs

The Australian economy is well developed and among the largest in the world, focusing on IT, finance and tourism. Australia also has strong mining, manufacturing and agriculture industries.

Culture and language

Australia’s more than 500 First Nations give it a rich Indigenous history. They are a part of the longest continuous culture on earth.

English is the most common language in Australia, but Australia is also home to more than 45 Indigenous languages.

Plan your trip

The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our  travel checklist  to find out what you should know or do before travelling to a foreign country and working there.

Before you leave, remember to  register as a Canadian abroad  to receive notifications in case of an emergency while you are abroad or of a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.

Recognized organizations

Need help planning? One of International Experience Canada’s  recognized organizations  might be able to help you find a job and transportation, and provide travel advice.

Most recognized organizations charge a fee for their services.

Read the guide

Australia’s working holiday guide

This guide provides tips and resources on working in Australia.

Tourism Australia

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