Lots of young people dream about combining work and travel, experiencing the best of both worlds, and Australia is a very popular destination for working holiday aspirants. The underwater treasures of the Great Barrier Reef, the lush landscapes of the Daintree Rainforest, the breathtaking outback, Sydney’s iconic Opera House, Melbourne’s quirky coffee culture – Australia has them all. While enjoying these wonders, why not make some money on the side? A “working holiday” in Australia can make this dream come true.
But to make your working holiday in Australia a resounding success, you need foresight, a good dose of planning and the right approach. We’re here to guide you on this thrilling journey! So, buckle up as we share our top tips for a successful working holiday in Australia.
Get The Right Visa
Before you hop on to the plane and set sail to the land ‘Down Under’, understand the visa requirements. Look out for the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) or the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462) depending on your country of residence. These visas allow you to work, study, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months.
House Keeping
One’s health and wellbeing should be a top priority. Due to the high cost of healthcare in Australia, arranging appropriate insurance coverage is crucial. Keep in mind, the Australian government’s healthcare agreement might not cover everything, specific to your country. So make sure, you’ve got all the bases covered. It is also good to have a plan for your accommodation once you arrive, know where you will be staying before you arrive. Once you arrive you will need to open an Australian bank account, apply for a Tax File Number with the Australian Tax Office, and of course, make sure you have a economical local Australian phone number. People will be put off if you provide your international phone number.
Plan Your Journey Well
Discuss and research about what you want to explore in Australia. Do you prefer the bustling, cosmopolitan life of cities; or does your heart yearn for the tranquillity of Australia’s countryside? Perhaps you’re drawn towards the spiritual charm of its ancient Aboriginal lands. Knowing the answers to these questions can help you plan a better, more fulfilling journey.
Budget Wisely
Australia is a diverse country and the cost of living varies greatly between urban centres and rural areas. It is tempting to splurge on exciting activities or delicious food, but forgetting to keep an eye on your expenditure can put a dent in your plans. Remember, a solid budget plan can act like a compass, guiding you through your working holiday. Also, a WHV 417 requires you to provide evidence of a minimum of AUD 5,000 in your bank account before being granted.
Be Flexible with Work
Flexibility is a trait that will take you far. The job market is competitive, and sometimes you need to grab opportunities as they come rather than waiting around for the job of your dreams. It can mean working on a farm, waiting tables, or working in retail – but each experience will enrich your journey in its own unique way. Make sure your resume is prepared in advance and you have your referees ready to respond to requests. Make sure you have your qualification records ready to present.
Depending on the work you are seeking, you may be asked to participate in pre-employment background screening. Have your ID documents ready to be used for this purpose.
Make Connections
Networking is crucial when you’re in new country. You can start by making yourself know to several recruitment agencies who may specialise in the type of work you are seeking. Make an effort to meet locals, fellow travelers, or colleagues at work. They can be your best sources of information and can introduce you to new experiences. After all, the memories of the people you meet and the friendships you form might just outlast every other experience.
Respect The Country and Its Traditions
Australia is a country steeped in First Australian and European settlement history and tradition. Make an effort to understand and respect its unique and developing heritage, culture, and its culturally diverse people. Remember, showing respect goes a long way in forming a positive image.
So, grab the bull by the horns and get ready to experience a unique adventure in Australia. Your journey may be filled with surprises, but equipped with these tips, your working holiday in Australia will surely be a rewarding experience.
From planning your journey to respecting the local traditions, you’re now equipped to kickstart your Australian adventure.
Who knows what’s waiting for you in the land ‘Down Under’? The sun-drenched beaches, the whispering eucalyptus trees, the peculiar wildlife, or the heartfelt Aussie hospitality – every day promises to be full of new discoveries.
So, pack your bags and open your heart to a journey like no other. Remember, every epic journey starts with that single step and perhaps this blog was yours. Now all there’s left to do is take the leap, and start living your Australian working holiday dream.
