travel work in australia

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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.

• Jobs Abroad

9 Best Work Abroad Programs in Australia 

Kaila is a recent graduate from the College of Saint Benedict in Minnesota, where she earned her ...

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What do we love about the best work abroad programs in Australia? The pay well, the work is meaningful, and they’re really, really fun. ☆ As the saying goes, “not all jobs are created equal”, but neither are their job agencies. That’s why we’ve scoured high and low in search of the best job agencies in Australia. If your dream has always been to work abroad in Australia (who hasn't thought about it?) then you’ve come to the right place. While you may desire to live down under long term, there are also options for short term jobs abroad in Australia. 

Get a close up look of some awesome work abroad programs in Australia.

While living the Aussie life would be magical, it’s not always easy to find a job on your own. That’s where work abroad programs in Australia come into play. But which one can be trusted? Will they really find you a job worth while? These are very real concerns when looking for work abroad. So, now that you’ve come to the right place, continue reading below for some ratings and reviews of the 9 best job agencies in Australia. Because when you’re on the hunt for a gig abroad, the last thing you want is a job agency not getting the job done! 

Here’s a snapshot of top work abroad Australia programs to get you started:

• Alliance Abroad
• GeoVisions Foundation

Oyster Worldwide

• Greenheart Travel
• InterExchange
• Global Experiences
• The Intern Group
• Internships Down Under

The best organizations to help you work abroad in Australia without experience

Editor’s note: This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.

1. The Intern Group

“My experiences with The Intern Group, in Melbourne Australia, were fantastic. I made new friends immediately, starting with a shared cab with other interns on my flight into Melbourne. Arriving into a foreign country by yourself can be intimidating, but The Intern Group made the transition a smooth as possible with social activities and an informative orientation. The accommodations met expectations, and it was convenient having an on-site dining option. My finance internship provided me transferable knowledge and skills that I continue to utilize in my academics and further recruitment efforts.” Read more reviews from The Intern Group . 

• Where? Melbourne
• When? Year Long
• Why? Partnering with many great companies and NGO’s makes The Intern Group a top choice for those wanting to make Melbourne their home for a while. Featuring internships in a wide variety of sectors, it will be hard to choose just one! Plus, 24/7 local support and an international community to network with make this internship hard to pass up. 
• Read more The Intern Group reviews here

2. Alliance Abroad

“I used AA to get a job September 2015, I got a job at Ayers Rock resort any couldn't have had a better time. The staff at AA where incredibly helpful in helping me sort my paperwork and I even had a visit from one of there in country staff.” Read more reviews from Alliance Abroad here .  

• Where? Ayers Rock, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Port Douglas, Sydney
• When? Year Round
• Why? Get a PAID job or internship lined up even more arriving in Australia! Jobs are available in a wide range of industries and with reputable companies. The only catch? You must be 18-20 years old. 
• Read more Alliance Abroad reviews here

“It was a great experience for me and I am so happy to have had this opportunity! I was able to travel to another country and be immersed in their culture, all while have the satisfaction of working. BUNAC made the transition extremely easy and were always available if I had any questions. I had an amazing experience and would recommend to anyone thinking about working abroad in Australia!” Read more reviews from BUNAC .

• Where? Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu, Melbourne, Sydney
• Why? Join BUNAC’s Work Australia program, authorized by the Australian government to allow young American’s (18-30 years old) to work in Australia for up to 12 months. The program includes pre-departure planning and visa support as well as 2-7 days of accommodation in Sydney upon arrival. 
• Read more BUNAC reviews here

4. Oyster Worldwide

“This programme was really tough but so rewarding. The training is really fun and you get to meet loads of people - most of my group was from the UK, Germany and Denmark. When I got to my job I learnt so much about cattle and improved my horse riding skills no end. Be prepared, it's hot, dusty and the hours are long- the food is basic and the cattle can be rough and sometimes dangerous! I got to save all my wages because there was nothing to spend them on. It was a great way to allow me to travel to Sydney, Alice Springs and go diving in the Great Barrier reef afterwards.The only problem was that I didn't want to leave- i'm coming back next year to visit my employers.” Read more reviews from Oyster Worldwide here . 

• Where? Rural areas of Australia 
• Why? Do you have the work ethic and desire to learn new skills in Australia’s outback? Oyster Worldwide’s work abroad programs in Australia are the right fit for you. You’ll learn how to ride horses, drive tractors, use chainsaws, gain fencing skills and work with cattle. Yee haw! Your first job will be guaranteed and support will be provided if you choose to look for another. 
• Read more Oyster Worldwide reviews here

5. Greenheart Travel

“Australia was the best thing that ever happened to me. Thanks to Kara and the Greenheart Travel. I lost around 20 pounds, more self confidence, a better paying job, more social, and eating better. Sydney is a beautiful city and everyday I'm doing something different. I'm never bored and always happy. I recommend this company if you want a positive change in your life. I've never had any regrets.” Read more reviews from Greenheart Travel here . 

• Where? Sydney and other areas 
• When? Year-Round
• Why? Work in Australia for 6-12 months while gaining some professional experience for the resume! Greenheart offers programs year round with flexible start dates and plenty of time to travel on your days off. 
• Read more Greenheart travel reviews here

6. InterExchange

“I had an absolutely amazing time in Australia! However I received a lot less guidance than was promised. While staff was very kind and tried to help, the temp jobs try offered were few and far between. I was not satisfied with the money I paid for this company, but I will say that being able to partner with someone was a big reassurance when moving across the world. So for that, I say thank you. Thank you for giving me the little push I needed to get out and go!” Read more reviews from InterExchange . 

• Where? Lots of cities in Australia! 
• Why? InterExchange is geared towards those who want independence and a head-start with the job search. Fund your travel with a job here and there as well as support centers in Sydney and Melbourne. 
• Read more InterExchange reviews here

7. Global Experiences

“Being able to live and work abroad in Sydney has made me grow so much as a person. Weather it is traveling alone or with friends, there is much to learn throughout the process. I worked as a business intern for a startup and I loved being able to see the different views people had on this side of the world in relation to business in it helped me see some differences on what works well and what doesn't. Most importantly had a blast throughout the three months. I traveled all over Australia seeing all the famous cities/attractions and retained a lot of knowledge working through my internship. I would recommend this program to anyone looking for a life changing experience.” Read more reviews from Global Experiences . 

• Where? Sydney
• Why? You’ll get a guaranteed internship, career development, coaching, interview prep, and more with Global experiences! Learn and grow with fellow interns during social events and staff ready to help 24/7. Plus, you will be centrally located in Sydney! 
• Read more Global Experiences reviews here

8. GeoVisions Foundation

“This program has given me the ability to travel everywhere! I have had the opportunity while my host family was on holiday to visit Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast, Queensland. In May, when I complete my contract with my host family, I will be traveling to Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, then from Italy travel through Europe and some east coast stops in the US before returning to California.If you are hesitant or weighing your options to stay or go and they keep evening out, just go! GeoVisions was very open to setting this all up and giving me time to find the family that I thought was a best match for me.” Read more reviews from GeoVisions here .

• Where? Brisbane, Sydney
• Why? Get paid to work as an au pair and travel on the side! Decide on a host family that fits you for 6-12 months. On your days off, travel around the country and internationally. Be sure you can explain your previous child-care experience to get your foot in the door!
• Read more GeoVision Foundation reviews here

9. Internships Down Under

“The past 8 weeks, I attended an internship in Sydney. At first, I didn't know what to expect but after a few days, I felt very welcomed and a part of the team. I am glad to have had such an amazing internship with very nice people and a lot of fun. Besides the internship, I quickly made friends with other interns from all over the world and we explored the city and the surrounding areas together. I would recommend Internships Down Under for everyone who is not only looking for travelling but also for a mix of work experience and fun weekend activities.” Read more reviews from Internships Down Under . 

• Where? Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
• Why? Choose an internship in one of Australia’s major cities to enhance your experience and resume! Based locally in Australia and specializing in working with agencies as well as directly arranging internships, Internships Down Under will use their network to find the perfect match for you. 
• Read more Internships Down Under reviews here

[ Browse ALL Jobs Abroad in Australia Here ]

You’re ready to sign up for work abroad programs in australia .

Live your best life while working abroad in Australia!

Job hunting can be hard—especially in another country! That’s why it's so important to find an agency with the right connections and reputation. Reading reviews by past participants can help provide an idea of what to expect, but that should be just the beginning of your research! 

Do your homework and be specific with what kind of job you want. Do you want to be an au pair? Or is working in the country on a farm more your dream? Or are numbers and finance your thing? No matter what you hope to find, articulating your needs is important. Remember, you are hiring the job agency, not the other way around! 

Still feeling a bit confused on which of the work abroad programs in Australia is right for you?

Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare Job Agencies in Australia

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5 easy ways to travel and work in Australia

Australia’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife make it a dream destination for travellers. Once the holiday is over, you’re back in your own country.

But what if you could travel and work in Australia — and essentially have the best of both worlds?

The concept of working and travelling in Australia, often called a “working holiday,” has gained immense popularity among young explorers and career enthusiasts.

With an Australian working holiday visa, you’ll be able to live like a local, learn English and have the time of your life in a sun-kissed, far-away land Down Under.

Nothing would be better than an indefinite road trip around Australia and not having to work.

Sadly, the cost of travel in Australia and the size of the country means it’s not a reality for most people — something Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author, would agree with.

“I grossly underestimated how much I needed. It cost me double what I thought because of a strong Australian dollar and poor planning,” he writes in his blog .

“On my most recent trip, I spent US$3,400 in 33 days. It includes my day-to-day expenses, flights, transport, tours, and anything I bought. Averaging roughlyUS $100 a day, it would have been a lot more had I not been able to stay with friends and get discounted tours.”

Eating out can cost a hefty penny, where a cup of coffee can cost five Australian dollars, and a lunchtime meal can easily be over AU$20.

With such high costs, it makes even more sense to travel and work in Australia.

What’s more, Australia has one of the highest minimum wages in the world, currently at .

Even with the relatively high cost of living, this should be enough to break even if you’re considering living it up in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth or any of Australia’s other big cities.

With a working holiday visa in Australia, you can work as a bartender, among other jobs. Source: AFP

Pro tips for working in Australia

The first thing you need to know is that you need to secure your work visa — but not your employment — in advance. This means you need to coordinate your application for an Australian working holiday visa before landing there.

If you’re under 30 — or 35 in some cases — and hold a passport from an eligible country, you need to apply for the First Work and Holiday visa . This visa allows you to have an extended holiday in Australia as well as to work here to help fund your trip.

The visa fee is AU$635 ; if granted, you can stay for a year and do any work you want. 

Australia’s working holiday visa has made it an attractive destination for long-term travellers for years. This visa gives you the freedom to work in most sectors or jobs. Employers are used to taking on backpackers for work in hospitality, retail, tourism, construction, farming and more.

Take 22-year-old Japanese university student Yushin Tanaka, for example. Tanaka took a year off from university and flew to Australia on a working holiday visa. He works as a server at an Italian restaurant four days a week.

“I’m grateful that I can cover initial expenses with the money I earn from working,” he said. “I want to make use of what I learn here and of my English skills after returning to Japan.”

The best part? You can work anywhere in Australia as your visa isn’t attached to employment for a single organisation or company.

Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for a gap year adventure, a professional seeking international experience, or simply an adventurer at heart, here are five easy ways that can land you a job while you travel in Australia.

Working holiday visa programmes have long attracted the wanderlusters seeking to travel and work in Austrlaia. Source: AFP

1. Join a working holiday support programme

One effective way to secure a job on your Australian working holiday is to use a Working Holiday Support Programme. 

These work programmes can assist international travellers in finding employment and settling into Australian life seamlessly.

Among the providers are The Global Work & Travel Co ., Work N Holiday and Alliance Abroad , which provide guaranteed work opportunities for working holidaymakers throughout the duration of their stay. 

These programmes often include airport pick-up, an induction to help you get established, support in finding housing and social activities.

If you want to travel and work in Australia, start by knowing the visas you need to apply for. Source: AFP

2. Conduct an online job search

Several powerful tools – online and otherwise – can help you secure a job on your working holiday. 

You can check out job search websites in Australia designed for backpackers or use popular platforms like Seek and Indeed . 

When using these websites, focus on looking for short-term or contract jobs, as they are more likely to hire working holiday visa holders.

Apart from that, keep an eye out on Facebook’s Job Search tool, join industry groups, or check LinkedIn for positions; social media can be a fantastic tool for finding work with up-to-date listings.

Wait, there’s more. With the right skills and a good WiFi connection, many jobs can be done from anywhere. 

So, if you’re a freelancer in your home country, why not use your skills to work and travel around Australia? Some of the top freelancing sites include Fiverr , Upwork , and Freelancer.com . 

Meeting potential employers in person can be a great way to secure jobs, especially in hospitality. Source: AFP

3. Meet potential employers face to face

If you prefer to start looking for a job after arriving in Australia, meeting employers in person can be an excellent way to find work, especially in bars and restaurants. 

You can walk around and visit these places to check if they need bartenders or servers. 

Just remember that if you are serving alcohol, you’ll need to complete Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) training and get an RSA Certificate, as it’s a requirement in Australia.

It might seem like a slower way to find a job, especially in a world where we’re used to finding everything online. However, this way, you can explore a new city, connect with locals, and start conversations with potential employers.

Make sure you have a few CVs at the ready. 

Want to travel and work in Australia? Try asking temp agencies — they can link you to cafes and restaurants needing help. Source: AFP

4. Enlist a temp/recruitment agency

If you need help with your job search, a temp/recruitment agency can be a helpful place to turn. They can help you find jobs that match your skills, apply for positions you like, and get hired. 

Here, you can find temporary jobs lasting anywhere from just one day for emergency cover to as long as three to six months, such as maternity leave replacements.

Temp agencies are typically used to fill these positions, especially in city areas, quickly.

Since these roles are often more corporate and you’re stepping in temporarily, you can expect to earn higher than the minimum wage.

Some agencies, like The Kingsmen , specialise in industries like hospitality and construction, which are great for people who love to travel or are on working holidays.

Networking with fellow travellers can lead to some of the best job opportunities during your working holiday in Australia. Source: AFP

5. Find work as you travel

One of the greatest perks of a working holiday is the freedom it offers. 

If you’re adventurous and eager to explore different parts of Australia, you can find work as you travel. Job opportunities can pop up unexpectedly, so listen for any leads in your hostel and watch for job ads.

If someone in your dorm has recently completed farm work, they might have useful farm work contacts to share. Strike up conversations, express your interest, and see where it leads – you never know what opportunities may come your way.

The Australian government has put together a Harvest Guide for travellers interested in assisting with picking, harvesting, and gathering produce in the country’s charming rural farming towns. 

It’s an excellent resource for those looking to experience the beauty of Australia’s countryside while working.

You can even check if your hostel has any job openings. Hostels often serve as great hubs for backpackers, and they may have various flexible job options available, including part-time or full-time roles.

Take “ Wake Up! Hostels ” as an example. They’re constantly searching for enthusiastic individuals to join their team.

You could find roles in reception, housekeeping, maintenance, or even become a tour guide, leading social activities like city and beach walks and market tours.

One of the most effective ways to travel and work in Australia is to use a temp agency. Source: AFP

Tips for a successful work and travel in Australia experience

A successful work and travel experience in Australia requires careful planning.

Here are some tips to make the most of your adventure:

• Research: Thoroughly research Australia’s visa requirements, job prospects, and cultural aspects.
• Budgeting: Create a realistic budget to manage your finances throughout your stay .
• Safety: Prioritise safety and be aware of local guidelines and emergency contact information.

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• How it Works

Work Opportunities

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• Au Pair in Australia

Work & Travel Australia

Applications Open. Sign Up Today!

Now is a great time to apply for Work & Travel Australia. Included is not just an arrival week...it is a comprehensive package of jobs, travel, 24/7 support PLUS everything else you need in order to take the work out of your Working Holiday. Choose our pre-departure job option and your job will be locked in before you leave home!

Our experienced Work & Travel team can give you bespoke recommendations and insider knowledge about accommodation, travel and jobs. If you want to explore Australia, then Work & Travel is a great resource to have at your fingertips. Our team is on hand to provide comprehensive support to you throughout your entire time in Australia.

Learn More...

How It Works

Work & Travel Australia helps you with the big first steps in your experience down under. Whether it is finding work or seeking the best deal on a Reef tour, we have you sorted!

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.

We pride ourselves on being upfront and honest about our fees so you know exactly the costs, where your fees go, what's included and what's not. Our package includes all the essentials that you’ll need plus a few extras to make sure you have the best experience possible.

What’s Included

Orientation.

AIFS' Orientation covers job, travel, setting up your tax and bank account, plus all the information you need to get started.

Make the most of your time and budget - AIFS' dedicated travel desk will help you build the perfect travel plan.

Social Events

Travelling alone? No problem! With AIFS you have ready made opportunities to mix and mingle. Find new friends to work and travel together.

Money & Basics

Start your program with a bank account already sorted. We'll show you how to get set up for tax and all the other important money matters you'll encounter in Australia.

Get Started

Don't miss your chance to start your Working Holiday down under. Apply today or speak with one of our consultants.

• 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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• 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

You Might Also Like

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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How it works, working holiday in australia.

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Sydney. Melbourne. The Gold Coast. Just a few dreamy locations that should be on every traveller's list.

Get ready for an island paradise chock full of sun, sand, surf, iconic wildlife & fun laid back people. From Outback stars & the Great Barrier Reef, to tropical rainforests & golden beaches - and the only way to truly experience it all is by going on a working holiday.

But venturing into the unknown can be a daunting, lonely and costly endeavour, even for the most seasoned traveller. And although you technically  could give it a go on your own, it will often lead to a lot more headache, anxiety, cost & even failure. 

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.
• 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.

Don’t spend 4+ weeks job hunting in a foreign country alone with no income. Travel smart, prepared and hassle-free. 

Most travellers book 6-12 months ahead, dates are flexible, but spaces are strictly limited, so start planning today!

Looking for even more? Check out our Working Holiday in Australia (Plus) trip, which includes a 2nd country job match, epic side tours & even more support.

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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)

Dedicated Trip Coordinator

Handpicked from an experienced team who’ve been there, done that and ready to guide you through your entire journey and leave no question unanswered.

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

You'll get a personal Travel Concierge to plan your flights, insurance or any other add-ons to synchronise perfectly with your trip. Deal with a real human and get personalized booking help that ticks all your boxes.

Private airport transfer

Avoid the hassle of being stranded, lost or ripped off by a taxi and kickstart your trip the right way. A private driver will be waiting at the airport to transport you directly to your accommodation safely and comfortably.

3 nights of hostel accommodation

Don’t get stuck or overpay for accommodation when you first arrive. Kickstart your trip with 3 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

We’ll give you a SIM with your first month’s calls, SMS & data included, and help set up your Australian bank account and Tax File Number.

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.

Jet boat ride (Gold Coast*)

Departing from Surfers Paradise, strap in for a fun, wet & wild jet boat ride throughout the stunning waterways. *Gold Coast arrivals only.

Skydeck pass (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.*Gold Coast arrivals only.

Permanent accommodation resources

If permanent accommodation isn’t provided with your job opportunity, our local team can provide you with links and advice to find a place to stay. 

Ongoing local team support

Throughout your time here you will have the support of a local expert. They will help to open up the wonders of Australia, supporting your every need while you work and travel around the country.

Global Emergency Line

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

gWorld access

Stay organised with your personalised portal where you can keep all of your important documents and trip details in one spot and gain insider access to everything Global.

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 join exclusive, short bucket-list side trips in a small group of Global Travellers to awesome locations, so you can meet new friends and see more of the world together while abroad. 

Marketplace deals

Get exclusive access to deals and discounts through our online Marketplace. Save big on a huge range of products and services from our brand partners worldwide.

$250 off your next trip

The “Travel Bug” is a very real thing! Once you catch it, it really doesn’t go away! Book any other trip with us later and save $250. Why would you ever stop travelling?

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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.

A Working Holiday should be nothing short of fun, exciting and the adventure of a lifetime. Stressful? Hard? We don’t believe in that. That’s why we have designed our Working Holiday trips to help you secure a local full-time job in a great location, often with some amazing perks, right from the get-go and before you land. And here is how we do it:

After completing your quick & easy registration (by clicking the red ‘Check dates’ button) you’ll be given access to gWorld - your very first, and very cool, digital travel buddy & app.

This will enable you to get your adventure started off right. You can plan your trip, get exclusive deals, access over a dozen courses from language basics to bar work & customer service 101, and even make some new travel buddies on our exclusive social network.

On the human side of things, you will be assigned a dedicated Trip Coordinator. They will guide you through the next steps and answer all your questions, even those ‘better be safe than sorry’ questions the ‘rents might have. 

They’ll also help you with pesky visas. No guesswork – only the right paperwork in your hands, before you leave. These applications are often a one-shot deal, so not something you want to screw up. 

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. 

And of course, your guaranteed job match, that almost always happens before your arrival. This means you can jump on the plane feeling confident and excited, rather than nervous and worried about how long that travel budget will last (like most people winging it are doing right now!)

Once you arrive to Australia, there will be a private driver waiting to take you to your city-centre accommodation. This means no getting ripped off by taxi drivers or desperately trying to hook on to that airport WIFI to figure out where you’re going or cramming into public transport underneath someone’s smelly armpit. 

Your included accommodation is 3 nights at one of the best hostels in the heart of Melbourne or Surfers Paradise. You’ll meet other Global Travellers while you relax and settle in, then shake off the jet lag with a night out on the town.

During these first few days you’ll be heading out on some awesome tours, bound to make all your friends and family back home jealous.

Melbourne arrivals: First up - a Skydeck pass where you'll head up to the Southern Hemisphere's highest observation deck for epic views of the city and surrounding coastline. Next, you'll be heading out on the city's #1 bar crawl to experience Melbourne's incredible nightlife.

Gold Coast arrivals: Start your Aussie adventure off right by going to one best wildlife sanctuaries around. Here you can see crocodiles, feed kangaroos, even cuddle a koala! Next up, a heart-pounding jet boat ride throughout the spectacular waterways of the Gold Coast. While you're not holding on for dear life, you might get lucky and spot some local dolphins frolicking in the water and kangaroos sunbathing on the beach!

And for the boring (but also very important!) side of things, we’ll also help with all your local life essentials, including:

- Australian mobile number with 20G data, unlimited Australia talk & text and an international calling credit to phone home. So you can stay in touch with your new friends and employers, get an Uber late at night, or send messages back home.

- Australian bank account. Exchange rates? Withdrawal fees? Forget about it. With a local bank account you’ll earn - and spend - in the local currency. Saving you money and hassle in the process.

- Tax file number. This can be a long, tedious process. It’s best to listen to the Global team for tips and tricks on how to get this done as easily as possible. Yet another reason why having our local Global team on your side saves you time and stress. 

Speaking of paychecks. Finding a job on a Working Holiday is one of your main challenges. You’re competing with a bunch of travellers on the same mission as you. Plus – not all businesses will even hire a traveller.

We build & maintain relationships with a huge network of pre-approved local businesses who will hire travellers, just like you, allowing you to be matched with a job before you even arrive, or within the first couple days after getting in.

So that’s your job & income sorted, but what about accommodation? Most host companies provide live-in accommodation (which is an amazing perk and usually given to those who get in early enough), but if yours doesn’t our in-country team will provide you with all the guidance & support to find a safe, comfortable and affordable place to live. (In fact, you may even find your new flat-mate in our social network)

Our support doesn’t stop there either. We’ll be in touch during your trip to make sure everything is going smoothly. If you have any questions or concerns we’re one quick message, DM, email, or carrier pigeon away. 

When your trip eventually does come to an end, we’ll get your tax return organised through a partner to ensure you get the most back you’re entitled to, meaning this experience becomes even cheaper!

Word to the wise traveller - those who get started early (6-12+ months in advance) not only have something to look forward to, they usually get matched with the best job opportunities in the best locations. 

The first step can be the hardest, but we make sure every step after that is easy. So stop dreaming, start doing, and let’s turn your Australian Working Holiday dream into reality.

Did you know we have another working holiday trip to Australia? With more inclusions, side trips and support, check out o ur Working Holiday in Australia (Plus) trip.

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.

The beauty of this trip is that you have the freedom to create your own adventure and you can do it however you please. But, for a rough idea, this is how most travellers spend their first few days:

Once you’ve touched down at the airport in Brisbane or Melbourne, a private driver will be waiting for you outside. They’ll take you into Surfers Paradise or Melbourne city to your initial accommodation at a top-rated hostel where we’ll cover the first 3 nights for you. Relax, make some new friends and settle in!

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.

Check out these similar trips

20 Ways to Work and Travel in Australia

There would be nothing better than an indefinite road trip around Australia and not have to work. Sadly the cost of travel in Australia and the size of the country means it’s not a reality for most people.

We’re often asked a lot about how you can work and travel in Australia.

There is nothing we like more than to help people find ways to travel more without needing hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings. It can be done by getting your hands dirty and in lots of fascinating ways.

Today, we’re sharing a list of work and travel possibilities and useful resources. This is work we’ve done or witnessed others do on our 18-month lap around Australia.

20 ways you can earn money on an Australia road trip

1. freelance writing & design.

We met a couple of people who were freelance writers on our road trip around Australia. Some wrote for publications, others had their own copywriting businesses. We write for other online publications ourselves!

There’s nothing like writing a travel article from your beachfront camp chair. And it doesn’t have to be “travel writing”, if you have other industry writing skills, or editing or design skills, seek those out!

2. Be your own boss and take leave

My beautiful friend Nikki, who we travelled most of Western Australia with, has a thriving boutique recruitment company in Sydney, Beaumont Consulting .

She hired someone to take her place while she travelled around the country for a year and still had money flowing in. Such an inspiring story. She’s also just been nominated for Australian of the Year. Woop Woop!

3. Mobile coffee seller

This one is great. It is a challenge to get decent coffee in certain regions of Australia and at popular festivals and events. Particularly at the top end of Australia and from the months of May – Oct there are a lot of road trippers passing through craving a good cuppa.

We met a man who had an espresso machine in the back of his van and sold real coffees on the road! So clever. Got dietary requirements? Take some soy and almond milk with you and you might be on a real winner.

4. Chef / cook

Another friend of ours Pete (a chef) who we met on our trip, stopped to work at various cattle stations on his trip around Australia, cooking for the station workers. They earned money, were given food and accommodation for free, and the chance to explore the region when not working.

A handy site Pete used to seek out these jobs was via the Ringers from the Top End Facebook group. Such a useful resource.

5. Governess

Pete’s wife Julie worked as a governess while he was cooking. Cattle stations are remote and huge in Australia. There are plenty of opportunities to pick up some casual or part-time work.

6. Mustering

Another option when travelling around Australia (if you have the cowboy skills) is to offer your mustering services. What an adventure to be a Jackeroo or Jillaroo (that is male or female cowhand on horseback) on cattle stations around Australia!

The owner of Rainbow Beach Horseriding , who we met a few months back, mustered on his road trip around Australia and loved it!

7. Have your own travel TV show

Our friends, Jenn and Clint from the TV travel show, Places We Go , travelled around Australia for four months shooting footage for their TV series.

This one might be a difficult one for most people to achieve, but it all starts with a dream right? And if you have previous video and TV production experience, the world is full of endless and surprising possibilities.

8. Hospitality

A certainty for when you work and travel Australia is to pick up hospitality work. This is often a favourite of backpackers on the Australian working holiday visa . Find the nearest cafe, pub, hostel, and offer your services for a wee while.

Or try Gumtree .

9. Whip cracking

We were thoroughly entertained one evening at our campsite in the Northern Territory by a travelling whip cracking champion. He travels the country putting on shows in campgrounds and sells his amazing handmade whips.

Our friend, Nick could not resist buying one and would wake us up of a morning practising his whipping skills – only to end up with whipping elbow!

(What other unique skills and talents might you have that you can show off in campsites around Australia?)

10. Online business

An online business is the ultimate in flexibility and what we do. You don’t need a travel blog to make it work (it’s actually a difficult way to make it work), but you do need good internet, not the pathetic internet we have , argh!!!

My online naturopath friend Jess, is about to travel around the country taking her business (she has online courses as well as Skype consultations) she can take with her.

Our good friends Nick and Emma, The Blockshoppers, who we traveled with across Outback Queensland, the Northern Territory and Broome actually run The Block Shop online store (yes the one connected to the TV Show) while lapping around the country.

11. Travelling musicians

Would there be anything better than travelling and being a musician? If only I could sing! We saw plenty of musicians playing in caravan parks, cafes, restaurants, bars and on the streets, earning a few dollars as they travelled the country.

12. Fruit picking

There are plenty of opportunities to pick up agricultural work when travelling around Australia. Fruit picking is popular for backpackers on an Australian working holiday wanting to fulfil their rural employment requirements to gain an extra year on their working holiday visas.

Great resources are:

• Harvest Trail

13. Photography services

A friend of ours, Greg Snell travelled half of the country, taking incredible photos and selling them to the tourism boards and travel companies to use for their marketing materials. If you’ve got the skills think about all the businesses that might love your images.

Greg also won the Best Job in Australia for South Australia and had incredible travel experiences in the State. Greg is now travelling the world producing videos of people who actively empower positive change in the world. Check out the amazing videos here.

14. School of the Air

We met a lady who continually lapped around Australia picking up jobs. One of those was to work in the School of the Air office in Alice Springs. Plenty of the teachers we met at the same School of the Air were passing through and decided to stay awhile to teach.

15. Provide educational services

Our friends, Israel and Belinda from  The Root Cause , just left on their Australia road trip in a big green bus – The Root Cause. They are planning on educating children around the country about the importance of diet and good lunchbox nutrition. How super cool is that?

16. Landscaping and labouring

You can usually find work labouring or landscaping pretty easily in Australia. There are plenty of jobs around for those who are good with their hands and using their muscles.

17. Mining industry

Although, mining is on the decline and jobs are hard to find, if you have the qualifications, it’s one way you can pick up work around Australia that is paid well. There are plenty of mines in Australia with Western Australia reigning over the mining industry!

18. Pearl farming

Again, another industry on the decline in Australia. It took a huge hit in the Global Financial Crisis. But, you still might get lucky. Back in 2003 we worked for 5 months on a pearl farm in Broome . It was an awesome experience, allowed us to explore the region and made fantastic money. Kuri Bay farm is no longer open. But we met plenty of transient workers when we visited Cygnet Bay pearl farm at Cape Leveque in the Kimberley.

19. Tour guides and hosts

Of course, if you find a place you love and a great tour company, you can always see if you can become a tour guide or host. We met plenty of transient travellers doing that. Some stayed on more permanently, others moved on to find other work.

20. Caravan parks

We met a lot of people pausing their travels for awhile to help manage caravan parks. There’s an endless amount of jobs you can do: maintain the gardens and grounds, cleaning, office management, hosting entertainment and kids clubs, shuttle bus drivers.

How to find jobs on your Australian road trip

Be prepared with the right certification, visas, and tickets. Australia can be strict with having the right safety tickets for construction and mining, and RSA for hospitality, and all sorts of things.

When you work and travel Australia, have an idea of the types of jobs you want to pick up and research what you might need for it.

Ask people in the area

Locals don’t only know the best things to see and do in an area, they can also let you know of any developments happening and work opportunities. Strike up the conversations and ask what they know.

Craig found his first construction job in the USA by chatting with the guy who sold us our car. He had a friend looking for workers and he started the next week.

Ask your accommodation

Accommodation providers are often looking for an extra pair of hands. We saw plenty of signs up on our travels around Australia. Ask and be careful to check the conditions.

It might be just for accommodation exchange, but if that suits then go for it. They might also be able to point you to the right job opportunities within the town.

Look at community notice boards and papers

There are plenty of them around in supermarkets, visitor centres and community gathering places. You might be surprised at what you might find. Of course, the papers will list many opportunities as well.

Look online

Gum Tree  is a popular classifieds website offering all things for sale, plus jobs and services for hire. Similar to Craigslist in the States.

Other big recruitment sites online are Seek , Skilled , Hays and Manpower.

Offer your services

See an opportunity somewhere. Pitch your services and how you feel you can help that business.

Work and travel Australia Resources

There are hundreds of resources on the web that can help you for your specific needs related to your travel style and where you are travelling from. I don’t know enough to recommend them.

We have a lot of recommendations and resources on this page for those on a Working Holiday Visa . (Aussies, I’m sure the job finding sites will be useful to you as well)

I can also recommend the following we have discovered since!

READ MORE: What to work in Australia? Here are 5 of the Best Work Opportunities in Australia

Global Work and Travel

Want to work and travel the easy way in Australia?

Since 2013, Global Work and Travel have been helping travelers work and fund their travels through cultural exchange programs both paid and unpaid.

One of the elements of a successful working holiday is to find local, seasonal employment to use as a means to fund your travels around the country. This is not easy. But, Global Work and Trave l makes it so as they have spent years with hundreds of local businesses that do hire travellers.

We are enthusiastic partners of theirs as we believe in what they do, avid lovers of working abroad, and know they can help you!

They offer the complete package and, most importantly, help score you job interviews with awesome local businesses so you can stay longer and fund all your Australian adventures!

Their in-country team will help get you set up with all the essentials you need including working holiday visa application advice, transfers & accommodation, local experiences, an Aussie local bank account and mobile number, plus so much more.

Read our full review post here.

EXCLUSIVE DEAL:  Just for our readers:  $100 off your trip  (whatever your currency) You must use the code:  YTRAVEL

Click here to learn more and use your discount code!

Workabout Australia

This organisation offers support with your Australian working holiday experience and share many job listings and opportunities around Australia.

Can you recommend any other ways to earn money as you travel Australia or any other great resources?

About The Author

Caroline makepeace, 15 thoughts on “20 ways to work and travel in australia”.

Great Article Caz!! Lots of really good info and ideas for my next trip 🙂 Ciao.

Nice post guys, we rented a camper van. Australia costed so much eventhough we traveled thrifty. We worked on a horse farm for 4 weeks to off set our budget and it was worth every day of it!

This is nice post! I liked it very much. Both Traveling and working is a great concept to reduce traveling cost in Australia. It will definitely help me to travel in Australia much cheaper as I thought before. Thanks 😀 Ciao

Very interesting article, didn’t know there were so many ways to earn in Australia and I live here myself 🙂

Thanks for sharing this experience.Really would help those who would be travelling Australia in future.

Thanks for your inspiration and stories of your Aussie travel adventures. Seeing what you ( as fellow Queenslanders) have and others have done has given us the courage to set out on our own family adventure starting in January 1016 and featuring some pretty fancy healthy recipes. We are packing up our things into storage and setting out not even knowing when and where we will stop and where we will find our next family home. In the meantime home is where the tent is. And somehow this seems like a very satisfying and homely idea.

By the way you made it onto our top family travel blog list. Not a huge boon for your already successful blog I grant but appreciate your work and perhaps working with you down the rambling road somewhere.

Ricky, April and The Little One

Cheers guys. All the best with your trip next year. You’ll have a blast and figure it all out along the way!!

I think a travelling musician is the most interesting work but not sure that it would be able to earn more money.

Some great suggestions Caz and an excellent post, thanks for the info!

I like number 9 the best…possibly the most dangerous too haha.

No.13 could be in my future to give the bank balance a boost in the short term!

Thanks for sharing this 🙂 Myself and my partner are considering the working holiday visa in Australia for our next trip and it’s great to know about all the different work options available!

Hello! What kind of visa does one need for this? 🙂 Does it have to be a working holiday visa?

You would need a working holiday visa. There are many different types so you’d have to see what best suited your situation. The embassy is the best place to give you accurate information

Could not get link for online business Digital nomad toolkit

Oh we no longer have it. Thanks for bringing it to my attention, I will remove that link

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Workabout Australia have been so great to deal with in helping us get the word out and help us find Grey Nomads to help us on our beautiful outback property with a Farm Stay/B&B. We have had the most fabulous Nomads visit and help us. This sharing has opened up our world and we have developed wonderful friendships.

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Keep up the good work, we are proud to be one of your subscribers.

I have advertised several times through Workabout Australia for travellers to come and work for our company. I found Workabout Australia to be very helpful, they contacted myself and made suggestions to assist with my advert. The result has been that I had a large response from eligible people. Over time I have employed a number of these people, who were good workers and lovely people.

Just thought I would let you know we have found a terrific couple wonderfully suited to the position for helping with the kids’ activities.

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We have had numerous replies to our advertisement which has enabled us to select suitable employees.”

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“I have been dealing with Workabout Australia for a number of years now.

They are my “Go To” place when looking for staff, especially because we only require seasonal workers therefore it is a great place to locate staff who are happy for short term work.

Justine is excellent to deal with and I also love receiving the weekly newsletters even as an Employer.”

Jenny Ashcroft – Ashcroft Rural Enterprises

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I have found it to be a most effective platform to advertise particularly for Back packers, Grey Nomads, people travelling and in recent times Australians looking for work.  

Workabout Australia has established its self as a reliable and practical method for both employers and  employees to connect.”

Shane Todd – Hyden Hotel/Motel

“Just wanted to thank you for all your help  in listing my vacancy.

The word spread far and wide and we now have some great new staff.”

Jenny Townsend – Harbour Lights Caravan Park

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It is through your business we have had interviews, responses and offers, including this position.

Your site is easy to use and seems to have a terrific variety of opportunities.

We will recommend your site to others.”

“As a member for many years I always found this site extremely helpful when looking for job prospects.

As an employer I now use this site whenever we have a position going, I have found the applicants to be very  good and will continue to use Workabout Australia for seasons to come.

I have found the site most helpful especially recently when I gave 2 hours’ notice to get the last position in. Justine could not have done anymore and got the ad done and advertised in bulletin in record time..”

Sue Waite – Rollingstone Beachfront Resort

The Good Knights started working with Workabout Australia about three years ago and have been members for about 10 years, we could not be more delighted with the service Justine and the team at Workabout give us. Their web page is terrific and captures a lot of our market. Justine is so easy to work with, very accommodating, nothing is too much trouble, she is a real star. Workabout was an inaugural component of the Good Knights when we first set up our business and we are still working with them today. We have been very lucky to attracted many good relief managers through the site. Thank you Justine for all your hard work we really appreciate it

Julia Atkinson and Brian Knight – The Good Knights Relief Motel Management

Workabout Australia was very user friendly. We were able to get our advert up quickly, and had immediate responses from potential employees.

We were able to fill our position within a week of advertising.

Thanks for making the experience so easy for us.

Rayma – Bundaberg Tourist Park

“This is to confirm the fantastic response to my advertisement in Workabout Australia. We have received enquiries from all over Australia and it would appear that my labour problems of the past have been solved.”

“We are finally on the start of our Workabout Australia trip. We were successful with our application for the job in Burketown. Just want to say a big big thank you to you and the team for setting up such a great business. Keep up the good work, we like the around the campsite and the tips. I will let you know how we go. Keep the emails coming.”

” We have found the opportunity to advertise with Workabout Australia has always provided a fantastic selection of people to fill any position. The people applying have varied skills from professionals to labourers. We have met amazing people whom have also added to our business with their own skills.

We have also maintained many friendships from the people whom have worked here and continue to visit us after many years.

The calibre of people whom are members of Workabout and looking for work is exceptional.”

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“Workabout Australia has provided many helpful contacts during our last 18 months of travel working our way around this great land, and some of the tips have been more than helpful.”

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Past 12 Months’ of Bulletins

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Work and travel Jobs in All Australia

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Heavy vehicle mechanic.

Locum Dentist

This is a Contract/Temp job

• Locum Dentist role at Regional VIC public clinic | 1.5 hours drive from Melb
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Senior Bookkeeper for fast-growing online global travel company

Luxury travel consultant, travel coordinator - perth.

• Don't miss this chance to take your career to new heights
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Medical Aide - FIFO

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This is a Casual/Vacation job

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Last minute volunteer opportunities

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Registering as a Host

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From the surfing to sunshine, snakes to Sydney Opera House - there’s nowhere quite like Australia! With a landmass of approximately 7.7 million square kilometres, it's the sixth-largest country globally and a paradise for nature enthusiasts. You could spend years here and barely scratch the surface.

Visitors flock to Australia for a myriad of reasons. The country offers unparalleled outdoor experiences, from snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef to hiking in the breathtaking Blue Mountains. Its cosmopolitan cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane boast world-class dining, vibrant cultural scenes, and world famous architecture like the Sydney Opera House.

The wildlife in Australia is both a blessing and a curse. It’s the reason many people want to visit but also the reason many people want to stay away! On the one hand you have the unique opportunity to witness cute kangaroos, koalas and wombats in the wild. On the other hand, there are some of the world’s most deadly snakes, spiders and crocodiles who call the country home. The country's oceans host a mesmerising array of marine life, including the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest coral reef system.

Although the snakes and spiders may put you off, the wonderful weather will entice you back. Australia's seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere due to its position south of the equator. This means summer is from November to February and winter from June to August. The climate varies widely across the country from tropical in the north to temperate in the south. Its diverse landscapes encompass stunning beaches, the rugged Outback, ancient rainforests, and vibrant cities.

If you crave the laid-back Aussie lifestyle, there’s no better way to immerse yourself than a cultural exchange with Workaway. Alongside the opportunities for cultural exchange, the country offers Indigenous experiences, a popular Working Holiday Visa Scheme and a vibrant van life culture.

Overall, Australia feels like several countries in one, offering something for every traveller, whether seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or natural wonders. Are you ready for an Aussie adventure?

Working Holiday Visa Australia

While we’re here to encourage volunteering in Australia, if you want to top up your adventure fund too it's worth looking into their Working Holiday Visa. The Working Holiday Visa program allows young adults from eligible countries to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months (or 24 months for some countries).

Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old (35 for some countries), meet health and character requirements, and have sufficient funds for their stay. This visa permits travellers to work for up to 6 months with a single employer and engage in short-term study.

The Visa costs around £330 so although quite expensive, it's a great opportunity for cultural exchange, gaining work experience, and exploring Australia's diverse landscapes.

Learn more about the Australia WHV here .

Van life in Australia

In a country so vast and diverse, it's no surprise that van life in Australia is a big deal with both locals and tourists. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on a pristine coastline, then driving through red deserts, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities - all before bed time!

It’s no secret Australia is an expensive country, so many people choose vanlife to save on traditional accommodation. It also means you have your own kitchen on wheels to save on food costs. Why not find a travel buddy to split fuel costs and driving time? Or better yet, did you know many of our hosts accept volunteers with campervans? If you fancy mixing volunteering with vanlife, tick the “accepts campervans” box on the accommodation filter when searching on the host list!

Highlights of Australia by State

Australia is divided into six states and two territories. Each state and territory offers diverse attractions, climates, and experiences, catering to a wide range of interests and travel styles. Here's a rundown of each with highlights, top destinations, climate, and things to do:

New South Wales (NSW)

Varied, with coastal regions experiencing mild winters and warm summers. Inland areas can get quite hot in summer and cold in winter.

• Summer average temperatures: Range from 18.6 - 25.8°C (65.5 - 78.4°F)
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 8.8 - 17°C (47.8 - 62.6°F)
• Sydney: Visit the iconic Opera House & Harbour Bridge as well as the famous Bondi beach.
• Blue Mountains: A highlight for any hiker, expect bushwalks, waterfalls and Echo Point Viewpoint to see the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
• Byron Bay: A haven for backpackers thanks to the bohemian vibe. Byron Bay is world famous for surfing as well as the chance to witness humpback whales migrating between June and November.
• Wine Regions: For those travelling through their tastebuds NSW offers some of the best wine regions in the world including Hunter Valley and the Mudgee Region. Here you can enjoy (and volunteer!) on vineyards as well as indulge in delicious gourmet food.
• Newcastle: Australia's second oldest city, boasting beautiful beaches, street art, iconic ocean baths, cool cafés and more.

Offers a variable climate with four distinct seasons - sometimes all four in one day! One fun fact you may not expect is that you can find snow in the Winter months in Victoria, generally from June to August. Head for Mount Buller, Mount Hotham or Falls Creek in particular. These locations offer not only opportunities for skiing and snowboarding but also breathtaking winter scenery.

• Summer average temperatures: Range from 14 - 25.3°C (57.2 - 77.5°F)
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 6.5 - 14.2°C (43.7 - 57.6°F)
• Melbourne: As Victoria's capital city, Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts scene,iconic laneways, museums, and renowned restaurants.
• Great Ocean Road: One of the most beautiful road trips in the world! It offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, including the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches.
• Yarra Valley: Famous for its wineries, cellar doors, and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy wine tasting, gourmet food, and hot air balloon rides.
• Phillip Island: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, visitors can witness adorable little penguins returning to shore at sunset. It's also home to koalas and seals.
• Wilson's Promontory: Australia's southernmost point offers spectacular seaside scenery, hiking trails, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, including wombats and emus.

Queensland is one of the warmer regions in Australia, with an average annual maximum temperature of 29°C (84.2°F) and 62 percent humidity. Expect hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Flooding and thunderstorms are common during the rainy season which is December to March.

• Summer average temperatures: Range from 23.6 - 31.4°C (74.5 - 88.5°F)
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 17.5 - 26°C (63.5 - 78.8°F) and there is low rainfall (this makes it peak tourist season during these months)
• Cairns: Considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a tropical paradise with access to reef tours, lush rainforests, and the nearby Kuranda Scenic Railway. It’s also a popular spot with backpackers and a great place to volunteer in hostels or enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
• The Whitsunday Islands: A cluster of 74 idyllic islands, featuring white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and iconic spots like Whitehaven Beach. This region is best explored by boat, with many sailing and boating hosts in the area!
• Gold Coast: A city built literally on the beach. Famous for its coastline, surfing spots, and vibrant nightlife.
• Brisbane: As Queensland's capital, Brisbane is a sunny, riverside city popular with foodies and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Daintree Rainforest: As one of the world's oldest rainforests, Daintree is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, teeming with biodiversity, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife encounters. A forest so spectacular, Sir David Attenborough called it “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”
• Fraser Island: The largest sand island globally, Fraser Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring pristine beaches, freshwater lakes, and the iconic Maheno Shipwreck. It's also a popular destination for backpackers to camp, party and explore!

Western Australia (WA)

Varies across regions, from Mediterranean in the southwest to tropical in the north. During the summer months rain is unusual, but winter can bring downpours of rain and thunderstorms.

• Summer average temperatures: Range from 17.5 - 30°C (63.5 - 86°F).
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 8 - 19°C (46.4 - 66.2°F)
• The Kimberley: A rugged and remote region known for its wild beauty, including the Horizontal Falls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and the stunning landscapes of El Questro Wilderness Park.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles): A World Heritage Site in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia. Known for its distinctive beehive-shaped rock formations, it offers stunning landscapes and ancient Aboriginal culture.
• Margaret River: A haven for wine lovers, surf fans and adventure seekers thanks to world-class wineries and a stunning coastline.
• Ningaloo Reef: A lesser-known but equally spectacular reef system offering incredible snorkelling, diving, and the chance to swim with whale sharks and manta rays.
• Broome: Cannot miss Cable Beach with its pristine white sands and camel rides at sunset!
• Rottnest Island: Your chance to capture that adorable quokka selfie! This island is a paradise for snorkelling, cycling, and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
• Perth: Western Australia's capital city, known for its relaxed vibe, stunning Swan River, Kings Park, and vibrant dining and cultural scene.
• Karijini National Park: Featuring dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and ancient rock formations, it's a hiker's paradise with breathtaking landscapes.

South Australia

Expect a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Generally. It is hotter to the north (in Flinders Ranges) and cooler further south around Kangaroo Island.

• Summer average temperatures: Range from 16.7 - 28.6°C (62 - 83.5°F) and rainfall is sparse.
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 8 - 16°C (46.5 - 60.8°F)
• Adelaide: The region’s capital city known for its vibrant festivals, thriving arts scene, and beautiful parklands, including the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Fun Fact: Adelaide is also the driest of all the Australian capitals!
• Barossa Valley: One of the most famous wine regions in the world, home to renowned cellar doors and gourmet food experiences.
• Kangaroo Island: A natural paradise where you can explore pristine beaches, encounter wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions and visit the Remarkable Rocks.
• Flinders Ranges: Another popular spot with outdoor enthusiasts, this rugged and ancient mountain range offers breathtaking scenery, Aboriginal rock art, hiking trails, and the Wilpena Pound natural amphitheatre.
• Coober Pedy: An outback town famous for its underground homes, opal mining, and unique lunar-like landscapes - an otherworldly experience that’s so unique!
• Murray River: Australia's longest river, providing opportunities for houseboat Workaway experiences, river cruises, and exploring historic towns along its banks.

Much cooler than mainland Australia, and being positioned by the Southern Ocean (the world's weather engine) means the climate can vary greatly! The weather on Tasmania's east coast is often sunnier than other parts of the island. Rainfall also varies dramatically across the island. Hobart, is Australia's second-driest capital city (after Adelaide), while on the west coast receives an annual average of 2400mm of rain which ensures the rainforest thrives.

• Summer average temperatures: Range between 17 and 23°C (62-73° F)
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 3 - 11°Celsius (37- 51° F).
• Hobart: Tasmania’s capital where highlights include the infamous MONA museum, stunning Mount Wellington hikes and the Salamanca Market.
• Freycinet National Park: Home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, this park offers stunning coastal scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Port Arthur Historic Site: A must-visit for history fans, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former penal colony providing an insight into Australia's convict history, with well-preserved ruins and scenic landscapes.
• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: Known for its rugged landscapes, including the iconic Cradle Mountain, it's a haven for hikers. An absolute highlight is the Overland Track, beginning at Cradle Mountain and ending at Australia's deepest lake – Lake St Clair, this 65 kilometre, six-day trek takes you through the heart of the magnificent Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
• Bruny Island: A peaceful retreat offering stunning coastal views, wildlife encounters (including white wallabies).

Australian Capital Territory (ACT):

Cool winters and warm summers, experiencing all four seasons.

• Summer average temperatures: Range from 12.6 - 27°C (54.7 - 80.6°F)
• Winter average temperatures: Range from 1 - 12°C (33.8 - 53.6°F), dropping below 0°C at night. Snow falls in the nearby Australian Alps
• Canberra: After a dispute between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra became one of the few planned capital cities globally. It is renowned for its cultural institutions like the Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, and Parliament House, offering a glimpse into the nation's history, art, and government.
• Lake Burley Griffin: A picturesque artificial lake at the heart of Canberra, surrounded by walking and cycling paths, parks, and iconic landmarks like the Captain Cook Memorial Jet.
• Australian National Parks: Namadgi National Park and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve provide opportunities for bushwalking and wildlife spotting (including koalas and kangaroos).
• Mount Ainslie: A popular lookout point offering panoramic views of Canberra and its surroundings, accessible by walking trails or a short drive.

Northern Territory (NT):

Tropical in the north, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Central regions are desert-like with hot days and cool nights.

• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Home to the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), this UNESCO World Heritage Site holds immense spiritual significance for the Indigenous Anangu people and offers stunning landscapes and cultural experiences.
• Kakadu National Park: Australia's largest national park and home to Aboriginal people for more than 65,000 years. It’s Known for its diverse ecosystems, ancient rock art, lush wetlands and abundant wildlife including enormous saltwater crocodiles.
• Darwin: The vibrant capital city of the NT, it's named after the famous scientist Charles Darwin (although he’d never actually visited.) Expect a relaxed tropical atmosphere, multicultural cuisine, markets, and access to attractions like the Mindil Beach Sunset Market and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
• Litchfield National Park: Adventure seekers will love this natural wonderland with waterfalls, monsoon forests, and magnetic termite mounds, providing opportunities for swimming, hiking, and experiencing the beauty of the NT's natural landscapes.
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge): Featuring dramatic gorges and the majestic Katherine River, this park offers opportunities for boating, canoeing, and exploring ancient Aboriginal rock art sites.

Volunteering in Australia

Now you’re clued up on the different regions of Australia, it’s time to get planning your trip of a lifetime. Who wants yet another beach holiday when you can be part of an unforgettable cultural exchange? It’s time to throw on your sunscreen and stay with friendly locals for a sun-filled Aussie adventure – all for less than the price of a night in a hotel room!

As the world’s leading community for volunteering and cultural exchange, Workaway is the perfect platform to connect with locals in Australia. Whether you are a solo backpacker trying to find a travel buddy , recently retired or setting off on a grown up gap year – we can help you find your perfect host. Best of all, you can join as a solo traveller , as a couple , or even as a family !

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your host will usually provide free accommodation and meals. Whether you want to witness cute koalas roam the wild, improve your surf skills, or master that famous g’day mate like a local, with Workaway you can do it all at the click of a button by signing up today!

Making a difference in Australia

From hostels to house sitting there are so many types of hosts ready to welcome you in Australia. Here are just a handful of examples of the type of projects you could get involved in:

• Fruit Picking, farming & vineyards: It’s easy to find farmstay experiences in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. Popular areas include the Yarra Valley (Victoria), the Sunshine Coast (Queensland), and the Riverland (South Australia).
• Hospitality and Tourism: Especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns. You can find projects behind the scenes for example in marketing, photography or web development as well as front of house helping with DIY, restoration, tours and more.
• Au Pair/ Babysitting: There are family and homestay opportunities all over the countries, particularly in urban areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. This type of volunteering allows you to live with a local family, gain hands-on experience working with children while living authentic Aussie family life.
• Conservation and Wildlife Volunteering: Various wildlife sanctuaries and conservation projects offer volunteer opportunities, with notable locations including the Great Barrier Reef (Queensland), Kangaroo Island (South Australia), and Perth (Western Australia) for marine and wildlife conservation. Thanks to the mild climate it’s also a popular place to give off grid living a chance with eco-farms, permaculture projects and sustainable construction proving popular.
• Sports/recreation: Australia has one of the biggest surf cultures in the world which goes hand in hand with the laid back lifestyle. It’s also a popular destination with yogis if you fancy volunteering with wellness centres or yoga retreats .

While we pride ourselves on being a cultural exchange, Workaway is also a great way to boost your CV , learn a new language and make friends all over the world . With over 1500 hosts in Australia alone, there are so many ways you can share your time and make a difference while enjoying this epic destination.

How to find the perfect host in Australia

As well as using the regions above as a guide, you can use your skills and interests as keywords in the search box to find your perfect host in Australia. Whether you’re enticed by the surfer culture of Byron Bay, dream of turtle spotting on the Great Barrier Reef or dream of hiking your way across Tasmania – your perfect host is literally a few clicks away.

Best of all, when you join Workaway you are not limited to one project or region. For a small membership fee you have access to over 50,000 volunteer opportunities across 170 countries. After Australia, why not continue exploring the rest of Oceania ? We also have hosts in New Zealand , Fiji , French Polynesia and even Tonga .

With its breathtaking landscapes, insane wildlife and fascinating history, Australia offers endless opportunities to make memories as well as give back to the community. Whether you want to support local NGOs , snorkel with sharks or enjoy BBQ’s for breakfast, lunch and dinner with Workaway you can do it all.

Your next adventure begins today

Join the Workaway community today to unlock unique travel experiences with over 50,000 opportunities around the globe.

Important information about visiting: Australia

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Upon request all workawayers based in Ukraine will have their accounts extended for free until further notice.

Hosts in Ukraine have been temporarily disabled for safety reasons.

If you are a host and are able to take in refugees please add the information in your account and you will be added to our last minute host list .

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A Guide to Jobs in Australia

The iconic Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, beautiful beaches, and friendly people are only a few of the many charms found in Australia. Spanning the quiet coasts of Perth, the desolate red rock of the Outback, and the pristine waters that surround the Great Barrier Reef, the land Down Under draws travelers of all kinds. But why not trade in your tourist visa and really get to know the true Aussie lifestyle—by working abroad in Australia? Whether you love the world of sports, animals, mother nature, business, or children, you’ll find a position that aligns with your interests.

Best Cities for Expats

While it may seem on the surface that Australia is only home to blonde surfer babes, it’s actually a great place to meet cultures from around the world, from it’s large Asian immigrant population to its indigenous Aboriginal communities.

Sydney . The most populous city in Australia and one of the world’s most livable places lies on the east coast. The backdrop of skyscrapers, markets, and beaches make for the ideal setting on the job or off the job. The city is booming with tourism, as many visitors flock to this destination, so the most popular jobs in Sydney are in the hospitality industry.

Melbourne . You’ll find this coastal capital in southeastern Australia in the state of Victoria. With its hip, chic vibes of street arts, beating restaurants, historical museums, and hidden bars, this metropolis is worth the visit. As the home to many sporting events, government buildings, businesses, and financial centers, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for working in Australia.

Perth . Perth’s easygoing and informal lifestyle complements its cosmopolitan scenes and outdoorsy activities. Due to its location, Perth is sprawling with hands-on jobs such as mining and agriculture. You’ll be able to live in relaxed vibes while working in Australia—the perfect balance.

Popular Job Types

Whether you’re looking for office or outdoor work, there are various jobs for working abroad in Australia. Most travelers get jobs in Australia in the service or hospitality industry, or seek work through temp agencies that can find them short-term jobs in Australia.

Au pair . If you like working with children and have some experience doing so, then au pairing may be a great job in Australia for you. Au pairs typically live with the family and share meals with them, which will cut down on living expenses and offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Australian culture.

Hospitality . From hostels to restaurants in the cities and coastal towns, Australia is a hot destination for adventurers and vacationers. If you have good customer service and some background in the service industry, you can find a jobs in Australia working as a tour guide, bartender, housekeeper, and more.

Agriculture . Love animals, the land, and getting your hands dirty? The plethora of ranches, farms, and cattle stations throughout the outback are in need of people like you who aren’t afraid to work hard, drive tractors, mend fences, and ride horses or dirt bikes. In many placements with agriculture, the room and board are included.

Estimated Salaries

Even though the minimum wage in Australia is around $17 an hour, and usually between $20 to $25 for foreign workers for some jobs in Sydney, Australian cities are some of the most expensive places to live in the world. Expats’ salaries can range from $25,000 to $75,000 depending on the job, program, and placement.

While meat pies and coffee are fairly affordable, you’ll find that alcohol, entertainment, and rent can be quite pricey. You can minimize costs by sharing accommodation and sticking to a budget. Luckily, most program fees will help pay for the job search resources, housing, food, and excursions.

Accommodations & Visas

Finding housing while working abroad in Australia can pose a challenge, as there are many other foreigners in Australia also searching for living space. Several options from flats to hostels are available, however, and some work abroad Australia programs offer assistance and guidance to help you find the best for your needs, so you’ll feel right at home like a joey in a pouch. Plus, if you live with roommates to cut down on costs and beat the crowd to find housing, you’ll have built in mates to travel and hang with.

Most people don’t realize that getting a visa to work in Australia is relatively easy. Filling out a simple online application and submitting some basic documents is usually all it takes to secure a one-year working visa in Australia—you can read more about visa requirements for your country via GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory . A standard work visa allows the holder to accept any sort of position for a maximum of six months during the year-long visa, and work up to 40 hours per week. This gives you ample opportunities to play and work in Australia.

GoAbroad's Inside Scoop

By working in Australia, whether in small towns or large cities, you’ll have the chance to network with people from all over the world. You’ll be able to expand your professional contacts, which could lead to future jobs in Australia or at home. This international work experience in Australia will help you become more confident navigating new cities, cultures, and work environments. Even if your position is temporary, it will help you stand out in your job search back home!

Although English is spoken here, don’t get too comfortable, English speakers: Aussie slang can seem like a foreign language! Aussies will often make up slang on the drop of the hat. Rolling with the punches and joining in on the fun of their dialogue will not only add to the experience, but will provide some great lingo to bring home! Embrace the relaxed lifestyle and the upbeat people. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for adventure and making new friends—even if you can’t always understand their English.

Whether you’re trekking in the morning or bungee jumping in the afternoon, the laidback lifestyle will complement your work abroad in Australia.

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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.

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Australia’s working holiday guide

This guide provides tips and resources on working in Australia.

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Gunn Point, Darwin, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Jake Appleby 2019

How to apply for a Work and Holiday visa

If you’ve dreamed of spending a year in Australia, here’s how to score yourself a Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462).

Work and Holiday visa application FAQs

On this page, we’ll give you all the details you need to apply for Work and Holiday visa (WHV) subclass 462, which is available to visitors who are aged 18 to 30 (inclusive) and hold a valid passport for any of the following countries: 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; Switzerland; Thailand; Turkey; USA; Uruguay; and Vietnam.

You may also be required to demonstrate a level of "functional English". For the full list of eligibility requirements, visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

If you hold a passport from 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) or the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, you’ll need to apply for a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417). All the details for that  can be found here .

When applying for your Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462), you need to be aged between 18 and 30. If you apply for the visa when you’re still 30, but turn 31 before the application has been approved, the visa may still be granted. 

To apply for WHV 462, you need to go online, create an  ImmiAccount  and fill out the details.

You may be asked for a number of documents during your application process, such as:

• the pages of your passport showing your name, personal details and passport issue and expiry dates
• a copy of your birth certificate showing both your parents’ names
• evidence of funds (usually AUD $5,000)

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may also be required to provide:

• character documents
• proof of English language proficiency

Document requirements can change, so check the  Department of Home Affairs' website  for the most up to date document requirements.

The online application form for a WHV 462 is not difficult to fill out, but it may take a couple of hours to complete it and add all the documentation required.

You’ll first need to create an  ImmiAccount  and confirm your email address. Once you’ve started your application, you can save it and go back to it later to finish filling it in.

Before you begin your application, check to make sure that applications are still open for your country of passport. The Department of Home Affairs website gives up to date information on the  status of country caps .

All documents you attach to your application must be in English. Those that aren’t have to be supplied with a translation.

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.

Your only other obligation is to sign the Australian Values Statement. This is a document that confirms you agree to respect the Australian way of life, and obey Australian laws while you’re in the country.

Most applications are processed within 79 days, but it can take longer in some cases, especially if you don’t fill out the form correctly or forget to attach the right documents.

Visa processing times may vary. For the most up to date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

When you apply for your Working and Holiday Visa, you’ll have to pay AUD $635. You may also have to pay for extras like health checks, police certificates or biometrics (facial photograph and finger prints). Be sure to check the Department of Home Affairs 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.

You should also note that you are responsible for any health debts you run up while you’re visiting Australia. You should ensure you take out sufficient travel or health insurance to cover illness and accidents during your stay.

You should have savings equivalent of AUD $5,000 – be prepared to show proof of the funds in your bank account . On top of your savings, you need a return air ticket or enough funds to pay for a flight home.

The WHV allows you to stay in Australia for 12 months from the day you enter the country. During that time you can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you like, but once the visa is activated it can’t be extended. All that really means is that if you spend a month somewhere else that time won’t be added to the length of time for which your visa is valid.

The idea of the WHV is to allow you to take on short-term and casual jobs to fund your travels and help you pay for your holiday. For the most part, you can stay in one job for a maximum of six months, although this can be extended with special permission in some cases .

If you fall in love with life in Australia (and who could blame you?) it is possible to extend your time here. If you do at least three months of  specified work  in eligible northern and regional areas of the country you can apply for a Second Work and Holiday visa that will give you another year to explore and top up your funds. To find out how to do it, head to our  information page 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-462 .

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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With cost of living on the rise, can you afford to travel to work?

Can Australian cities adapt to become more commuter-friendly or will the financial burden of travel force a fundamental shift in work arrangements?

Australia’s rising cost of living is squeezing household budgets, and with high fuel prices and public transport costs increasing, many Australians face the reality that the expense of commuting to work may no longer be financially sustainable.

The Australian Commute report showed that the average daily cost for an Australian to get to and from work is $20, totalling $5020 annually. Collectively, this translates to a national expense of $43.2 billion a year. The cost of public transportation is also increasing; Opal fares rose by 3.7 per cent in October 2023, as reported by Transport for NSW.

UNSW Business School's  Associate Professor Evgenia Dechter says the complex relationship between commuting costs and salaries is primarily based on preferences and household constraints. “Individuals make choices based on their preferences, budgets and time constraints,” she says. “Subject to constraints, some prioritise shorter commutes by living closer to work hubs, even if it means higher housing costs and lower quality housing. Others prioritise better living arrangements and may accept longer commutes.”

This raises the question: With rising economic pressures and commuting costs, will Australian cities transform to be more commuter-friendly, or will work arrangements undergo a fundamental shift?

The economic impact of commuting

While salaries may indirectly reflect commuting choices, A/Prof. Dechter acknowledges the growing economic pressure on workers and the current cost of living crisis combined with high inflation rates.

“For many households, the current economic conditions imply tighter budget constraints, putting immense pressure on workers, which may in turn affect their commuting and employment choices,” says A/Prof. Dechter. “Traditionally, commuting costs haven’t been directly factored into salaries, but some employers are starting to explore ways to compensate for them.

“Employers offering remote work options are a positive development in mitigating commuting costs. Remote, hybrid and flexible work arrangements may not only alleviate the financial burden on employees but also potentially broaden the talent pool for firms struggling to find workers,” she says.

Read more: How BVN is striking the right balance with hybrid working

Public transport offers a cost-effective alternative for many commuters, but A/Prof. Dechter says improving infrastructure can also help with travel times. “According to the 2016 Census , only about 12 per cent of Australians who commute to work utilise public transport, highlighting the high costs associated with public transportation and the existing limitations in infrastructure, thereby indicating potential areas for improvement,” she says.

“Investments in public transport infrastructure have the potential to substantially enhance both the affordability and efficiency of commuting for a considerable segment of workers.”

City infrastructure is not designed for everyday commuting

The travel-to-work challenge is further amplified by the design of Australian cities, with urban sprawl leading to longer commutes and a need for more suitable housing options near workplaces.

“The ugly truth of the matter is the shape of our cities is far from ideal to support sustainable and efficient commuting,” says Professor Philip Oldfield , a leading expert in architecture from the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture at UNSW.

According to the Regional Movers Quarterly Index released in late 2023 by the Commonwealth Bank and Regional Australia Institute, this trend is reflected in a significant shift in migration patterns. The report highlights a 12.6 per cent increase in the population moving from capital cities to regional areas compared to pre-pandemic figures.

The rising cost of living may not be the only reason why it’s harder for Australians to travel to work. Prof. Oldfield says that cities are expanding outwards with residential densities decreasing.

“It’s often cheaper and easier to build housing on the edge of cities rather than trying to ‘infill’ gaps in the city. In Sydney, 21 per cent of homes built in Greater Sydney were on the city edge across the last decade. We call this urban sprawl, and it’s apparent in virtually all cities worldwide,” he says.

Using Sydney as an example, Prof. Oldfield says we don’t see enough family-friendly and three-bedroom apartments built near city centres and places of work.

Learn more: The UNSW Business School Hybrid Work Leadership Research Lab

“This is because developers are creating apartments for those who purchase them – which tends to be owner-investors, and not those who ‘actually’ live in them, which includes families with children. Owner-investors prefer one- and two-bedroom apartments and that’s why these get built.

“The impact of this is that families may want to stay in centrally located neighbourhoods, but because of a lack of family-friendly apartments, they either have to ‘cram in’ to two-bedroom units not suited to the family dynamic or move further afield where more ‘conventional’ and affordable detached homes are located,” says Prof. Oldfield

The knock-on effect is if they move further away, commute times increase, which he says can increase costs and lost time and subsequently make working at home more attractive.

The power of hybrid and flexible work

With the economic and urban landscape placing a strain on wallets, hybrid work arrangements are becoming increasingly popular.

Dr Andrew Dhaenens, an expert in workplace relationships from UNSW Business School, says that working from home and with more flexible hours is becoming more attractive. “For those with longer commutes and caregiving responsibilities, working from home offers a significant financial benefit,” he says. “There’s also a perception among employers that remote workers are more productive, further incentivising flexible work models.”

Dr Dhaenens says employers are becoming more accommodating to hybrid and flexible work patterns, yet employees are facing new pressures to spend more time in offices. The Hybrid & Flexible Working Practices 2023 report showed that almost half of the employers say that they have a minimum requirement for full-time employees to be at the workplace between three and five days a week, up from 37 per cent during the same period in 2022.

Dr Dhaenens says that hybrid and flexible work is key to easing financial pressures and believes that hybrid models will likely stay the norm. “Additionally, we know that work-life balance is key to employee wellbeing and productivity,” says Dr Dhaenens.

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While some employers require employees to be in the office for a set number of days, Dr Dhaenens emphasises the negative impacts of return-to-office mandates. “Both employers and workers are still adjusting to remote work, and new management strategies will emerge to ensure effective collaboration and communication, but an additional day in the office often comes at a direct cost to employees,” he concludes.

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What you need to know about work-related travel expenses in Australia

I f you are required to travel as part of your job, then you likely incur various costs. Whether making a short trip to attend a meeting or taking an overseas trip for an extended period, you can deduct your travel expenses. However, the laws surrounding travel expenses are complicated, and the Australia Taxation Office (ATO) keeps close tabs on  travel expenses . So, it's vital to pay close attention to what you claim to avoid mistakes. 

What is work-related travel expenses

Work-related travel expenses are expenses incurred while travelling for work. If you incur any expenses related to work-related travel, such as accommodation or meals, you may be able to claim them as travel expenses on your tax return.

Using your car for work 

If your job requires you to use a personal vehicle, you are entitled to deduct the motoring costs you incur while completing your job. This does not generally include the commute you make from your home to your place of work. 

Eligibility

However, there are  limited circumstances  that may allow it. For example,

• An employee travelling between work sites throughout the day can claim their commute. 
• If you travel directly from one job to a second job, as long as you do not return home in between. 
• If you are travelling to a course or meeting for work, you can deduct expenses. 

Methods to calculate work-related travel expenses

There are two options when it comes to vehicle travel for work tax deductions. 

• As of April 2023, there is a  flat rate  of  78 cents  per kilometre, and you can claim up to  5,000 km . You will need to keep a log of your travel to determine how far you travel for work purposes. 
• Use a  logbook  if you travel and detail your running expenses, from mileage to fuel, servicing, repairs, insurance, and depreciation. If you use the logbook method, your logbook needs to show your work-related trips for a minimum continuous period of 12 weeks

Alternatively, you can use a r eputable tax software  that will provide you with  mileage auto-tracking  and a simple snap and store for all of the receipts related to your business expenses. 

Ensure you maintain your logbook for a minimum of  12 weeks  before relying on it for your income tax return. The log should include odometer readings to determine the proportion of time you use it for work purposes. Store all receipts and invoices noting your spending on your vehicle so that you can claim the correct percentage of vehicle expenses. 

Travel to and from work is considered a private expenditure unless your employer requires you to transport bulky equipment and vehicles. That being said, the ATO pays close attention to these types of claims and may disallow them. 

Other work-related transport expenses in Australia

There are other expenses that can also be claimed for work-related travel if they are for:

• Heavy vehicles and utes if they have a carrying capacity of more than one tonne
• Vans with a carrying capacity of 9 or more passengers
• Fees for hiring or renting a car
• Costs incurred while driving someone else's vehicle for work purposes, such as fuel expenses
• Public transportation fares, including air, bus, train, tram, ferry, taxi, ride-share or ride-sourcing fares
• Expenses associated with work-related transport expenses such as bridge tolls, road tolls, and car parking fees

Other travel expenses 

You can claim additional work-related travel expenses for costs you incur that your employer doesn't reimburse. These travel expenses must be work-related rather than your daily commute to and from work. 

• Airfare and taxi fares
• Tunnel or bridge tolls
• Car parking
• The cost of public transport

If you are fined for a motoring offence, whether it is for parking, speeding or otherwise, you cannot claim these.

Overnight meals & accommodation 

If you are travelling away from home, you can claim accommodation, meals and entertainment. You cannot claim meal expenses if your employer reimburses you or provides you with a full allowance for these expenses. A number of businesses will provide an allowance, expenses included, so the employee doesn't need to cover the costs. You may be taxed for those allowances, in which case a deduction is possible for costs incurred. 

The ATO provides a lengthy list of what is viewed as a reasonable spend on accommodation, meals, and incidental expenses. You won't need to produce detailed records with receipts or invoices if you claim below the specified ATO allowance. If you exceed the reasonable amounts as laid out by the ATO, or you don't receive an allowance, then you need to keep detailed records to show your spending wasn't extravagant. 

The ATO established a reasonable amount to highlight when detailed records must be kept. Many people would assume that they can claim this maximum amount, but we don't recommend you do this. You must only claim the amount of money you spent. 

Even if you claim below the reasonable amount, you should be able to prove the expenses you incurred. A bank or credit card statement is viewed as sufficient evidence should the need arise. It will help support your claim that you were in the particular area at the time you claimed. 

As long as your travel includes an overnight stay, you can claim business meals, food and beverages. You can't claim meals when you work from home. You could claim tax travel expenses if you always work from home and need to travel to an office. 

What you can’t claim

Travel for personal reasons or between your home and your workplace can’t be claimed Examples include:

• Travel between your home and regular place of work or vice versa
• Travel for personal reasons, like running errands on the way to or from work
• Travel for overtime or out-of-hours work
• Travel from your home (which is also your place of work for one job) to another location where you work for someone else

Read our  guide to tax deductions  to learn about other tax deductions.

Other situations that allow you to claim travel deductions 

You may be able to claim work-related travel expenses tax if you attend a work conference or course. If it is local, you can claim transport or mileage. If it's interstate or overseas, you can claim accommodation, airfares and meals. 

In all cases, your best bet is to visit a tax agent to ensure your travel deductions are above board. 

This article originally appeared on QuickBooks  and was syndicated by  MediaFeed.org .

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Budget will consider Hecs relief and assistance for people on practical placements: Chalmers

Turning to education, and Jim Chalmers said the government was looking at both Hecs relief and assistance for people undertaking practical placements in its budget.

He noted that education minister Jason Clare was leading the work when it came to considering recommendations of the Universities Accord.

The Universities Accord is a first class piece of work and we’re giving it the attention that it deserves. As the prime minister indicated last week, we do acknowledge that students are under pressure and if we can afford to do something to help on that front, that’s obviously something we’ll consider as we finalise the budget.

‘Easy, but wrong’ for states to blame commonwealth for budget pressures: Chalmers

Turning to New South Wales, Jim Chalmers has responded to comments from the state treasurer, Daniel Mookhey , that the GST carve-up has stripped more from state revenue than Covid-19.

Chalmers said it would be “easy, but wrong” for any state or territory government to blame the commonwealth government for pressures on their own budget.

I engage respectfully and pretty frequently with treasurer Mookhey and indeed with the treasurers of all the states and territories … Decisions around the allocation of the GST are taken at arm’s length from the government by the commonwealth grants commission and it’s not unusual for a state or a territory … to have a different view about the allocation. It’s also entirely unsurprising that the states and territories would like more money to fund their priorities. I understand that as well.

Chalmers said NSW was “already receiving billions of dollars in extra funding” from the commonwealth around health, hospitals and housing, and the no-worse-off guarantee.

Because we do recognise the pressure on state and territory budgets.[However] … It would be easy, but wrong for any state or any territory to blame the commonwealth government for the pressures on their own budget.

Cost-of-living help to feature in budget, Chalmers says

Jim Chalmers said the government was still aiming for a second surplus.

We feel like the first surplus last year – the first in 15 years – was an important way to put downward pressure on inflation, so our objective is still a second surplus … The degree of difficulty on that has come up a bit, but that is still our objective.

Chalmers said cost-of-living relief would still form part of the budget, designed in a way to “take the edge off inflation rather than add to it”.

We want our cost-of-living help to be part of the solution to inflation rather than part of the problem, and so that will be a feature as well.

Chalmers fronts media on downgraded growth forecast ahead of federal budget

The treasurer, Jim Chalmers , is speaking to the media from Canberra, providing an economic update ahead of the federal budget.

As we flagged earlier , global financial uncertainty has prompted Treasury to downgrade its growth forecasts for major economies ahead of the budget.

Chalmers told reporters just now:

Because of this international uncertainty, the budget will downgrade forecasts for growth in most of the biggest economies that the Treasury provides a forecast for. There will be a downgrade for China, Japan, and the UK, and there’ll be other changes in the forecasts that we’ll finalise in the next couple of weeks. The budget will have a premium on responsibility and an emphasis on economic security, and what we will see is a budget strategy which will evolve along with our challenges.

12 people police are looking for believed to have come from outside church

New South Wales police said the 12 people they are looking for in relation to last week’s riot came from outside the church, where bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel was stabbed and the incident was broadcast on a livestream.

The initial response from the people inside, they did a great job holding the [alleged] young offender down… The police investigations are based around that fact that obviously thousands of people have come from surrounding suburbs to the location [after seeing the livestream].

The police officer could not say “what a single person’s thoughts might [have] been” but some people came to the church “for the wrong reasons”.

NSW police address media after calling for assistance in locating 12 men

New South Wales police are speaking to the media after it appealed to the public for information on 12 men earlier today, in relation to the riot in Wakeley last Monday.

Police released the images of 12 people they are most wanting to speak with, but said there are up to 50 people they are looking for in relation to the riot. Police believe 2,000 people in total were in attendance.

We know there’s groups of families involved that have gone there to support their parishioner. We’re not looking for those people. But we’re looking to speak to them if they can provide information about the people involved in that [alleged] violent behaviour.

Investigators are working through up to 600 hours of footage, including body-worn footage, police said.

‘It just doesn’t work’: Liberal senator weighs in on job-sharing MP proposal

It should come as little surprise that Australia’s major political parties are not warming to the idea of allowing parliamentarians to job-share after one left-of-field proposal over the weekend.

To recap, two Melbourne women – Lucy Bradlow and Bronwen Bock – have announced their plan to run for federal parliament as independent “job-sharing candidates” in the seat of Higgins.

Higgins was snatched by Labor for the first time ever at the 2022 federal election but is historically a blue ribbon Liberal seat.

The shadow foreign minister, Simon Birmingham , weighed in against the idea of the two-for-one deal the aspiring politicians are offering. Speaking to ABC News Breakfast this morning, Birmingham said the idea “just doesn’t work”, citing examples of minor parties who have combusted over the years.

The idea that you have representative democracy is to vest that in an individual [and] that is an age-old proposition. It requires an individual to exercise their judgement, but also to be able to do so consistently. I think if you think about how many of the smaller parties and others have operated over recent years, we often get in – the most recent example was Jacqui Lambie and Tammy Tyrrell , two members supposedly of the same party elected, but then they go their separate ways during the course of the parliament, because they have legitimate disagreements in how they work together or the issues they stand for. It just doesn’t work to have a member of Parliament split in two as two different individuals, and then expect they’re going to be able to operate in consensus and deliver the type of consistency that’s required.

As my colleagues Ben Smee and Lisa Cox canvassed over the weekend , constitutional law experts aren’t quite in agreement over whether the idea could work in reality.

Professor Anne Twomey said she was “very doubtful” it would be constitutionally valid while Professor Kim Rubenstein believed it was “entirely consistent” with the constitution.

Federal government ‘still in discussions’ with NSW around distribution of health funds

As Peter Hannam reported earlier: NSW will “almost certainly” lose its top-notch debt rating after a carve-up of GST, the state’s treasurer Daniel Mookhey has said.

The assessment comes about a month after the commonwealth grants commission revealed how it would allocate GST money. NSW complained it would lose $1.65bn even as its population swelled and other states, such as Victoria, got extra funds. You can read all the details on this below:

Speaking to ABC Radio earlier today, Mookhey said the changes flagged by the commonwealth grants commission were expected to cost NSW nearly $12bn in the coming four years:

That’s the equivalent of about 19,000 health care workers, that’s 16,000 teachers ... $11.9bn is how much we spend on mental health, Tafe and the NSW police force combined every year. To put this in really stark relief, NSW has lost more revenue with the commonwealth grants commission than we did during Covid-19.

The federal assistant treasurer, Stephen Jones, told ABC Radio his government was still in discussions with NSW about the distribution of funds under health, education and other deals:

In the area of health, we’re negotiating with NSW and other states around the new health and hospitals agreement. We’re in discussions around the NDIS, we’ve provided a record new injection into housing funding – $2bn last year alone.

Circling back to Erin Patterson’s case, which resumed after about 10 minutes:

Tim Walsh , the magistrate, said he would not be able to accommodate the dates put forward by Erin Patterson ’s lawyers for a committal hearing – the hearing in which the evidence against her will be tested for the first time.

He asked her lawyers whether they had considered moving the case to the Melbourne magistrates’ court, or applying to have it fast tracked through the supreme court.

But Colin Mandy , for Patterson, said it was her wish for the case to be heard in Morwell, regardless of any prospective delays, which Walsh said could mean she spends at least 15 months on remand before the committal hearing.

Walsh said he was concerned by the delay, notwithstanding Patterson’s wishes.

Mandy said that it was standard practice for a court to hear matters as close as possible to where an alleged crime occurred and to the home of the accused. The crimes allegedly occurred at Patterson’s home in Leongatha, about 60km away.

Mandy said:

It’s not only a matter of principle and there are powerful reasons for the committal having to take place in the local community.

Walsh responded: “It won’t be in the local community, it will be in Morwell.”

Mandy then said, “That’s close to Ms Patterson’s home in the context of regional Victoria.”

Patterson was remanded in custody until 7 May, when the matter will return for a committal mention.

Gap between Labor and coalition remains tight, according to latest polls

Anthony Albanese remains the preferred prime minister over opposition leader Peter Dutton after two new polls found the major parties are running neck and neck ahead of the May budget.

A Newspoll published in The Australian shows most voters think Albanese is the better leader at 48% against Dutton at 35%.

On a two-party preferred basis, Labor narrowly leads the opposition at 51% to 49% – unchanged from the previous poll. At the same time, Labor’s primary vote sits at 33%, below the coalition at 38%.

The results tally with another poll published by Nine newspapers today. The Resolve Political Monitor also shows Albanese leading Dutton on the preferred prime minister stakes, at 41% to 32%. But after preferences, the two parties are tied at 50%.

The Newspoll also asked voters about Labor’s Future Made in Australia Act , and found 56% of voters agreed the government should actively invest in green projects, against 38% who disagreed.

The Resolve poll asked voters about cost of living pressures, with 55% saying they would struggle to raise the few thousand dollars needed for a major expense. The poll also found Australians are most concerned about grocery costs (55%) and utility bills (37%).

The 2024/25 budget will be handed down on 14 May. The Newspoll of 1,236 voters was conducted online between 15 April and 18 April.

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Anthony Albanese travels to PNG to walk historic Kokoda Track for Anzac Day

Anthony Albanese will this week become the first sitting prime minister to walk the historic Kokoda Track. Here’s why that matters.

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Anthony Albanese will make history this week when he becomes the first sitting prime minister to walk part of the gruelling Kokoda Track.

Accompanied by his Papua New Guinean counterpart James Marape, Australian Defence Force representatives and a select number of media, the group will walk from Kokoda Village through the unforgiving jungle to Isurava Village.

It’s there he will join Australians and Papua New Guineans for the annual Isurava Anzac Day service on Thursday.

His trip comes with a diplomatic element at a time of intense competition in the region and just days after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited the small Pacific nation on the weekend for the first time since 2022.

But as he prepared to board his flight, Mr Albanese said the trek would allow him to pay respect to the Australian service personnel who fought and died during the important Second World War battle of Kokoda.

What is Albo doing?

After attending an Anzac Day commemoration dinner hosted by Mr Marape on Monday, Mr Albanese will begin his 17km track on Tuesday morning.

Although just a small section of the 96km total trail, for two nights Mr Albanese will camp in the same places Australian soldiers did when they fought off the invading Japanese.

On his first day, he will pass through the Hoi Village and camp overnight in Deniki.

Then, on Wednesday, Mr Albanese and his travel companions will continue the walk to Isurava ahead of Thursday’s Dawn Service.

Ahead of his departure, Mr Albanese said being accompanied by Mr Marape “says a lot about how close the relationship is”.

“We’ll be paying tribute to the courage, the endurance and the sacrifice which Diggers made in World War II,” he said.

“Anzac Day is a sacred day for Australians, but it’s also a day that is commemorated in Papua New Guinea. And our relationship is very strong.

What is Kokoda?

The Kokoda campaign, which began in July 1942 and went until November, was part of Japan’s attempt to capture Port Moresby when it was an Australian territory.

For Australian forces, holding Port Moresby was crucial in defending Australia.

“Kokoda is the stuff of legend,” Mr Albanese said on Monday.

“As young Australians, we all learned at school the legendary status of those brave soldiers who fought against the odds at Kokoda.”

It began when the Japanese landed in Buna and Gona on the north coast before they made their way over the Owen Stanley Range – a mountain range that separates the northern part of the country from the south.

Over four months, the Australian and Japanese forces fought along a number of foot tracks, including at Kokoda, Deniki, Efogi, and Isurava.

Papuan Infantry Battalion soldiers fought alongside Australians, while thousands of civilians – who became known as the “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels” – provided support, carrying supplies, building bases and evacuating the sick and wounded.

The Battle of Isurava – where Mr Albanese will mark Anzac Day – was the scene of some of the most intense fighting during the Kokoda campaign.

An estimated 99 Australians were killed and 111 wounded over six days in August 1942.

Australian forces re-entered Kokoda on November 2, and November 3 is now commemorated as Kokoda Day.

Mr Albanese will become the first sitting prime minister to walk the track, but some of his predecessors have visited the region before. Paul Keating famously kissed the ground at the Kokoda Memorial when he visited in 1992, and John Howard and Malcolm Turnbull both visited memorial sites during their prime ministerships.

Kevin Rudd walked the track while opposition leader in 2006 alongside then-government minister Joe Hockey. Scott Morrison walked the trail in 2009.

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