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Home > All programs > Australia
Working Holiday in Australia
Experience life in Australia with Global Work and Travel
Program
Working Holiday
Destination
Australia
Duration
6 to 36 months
Ages
18 to 35 years
Program overview
Australia is synonymous with adventure, vast landscapes, and an unparalleled sense of freedom. With its iconic beaches, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife, it’s no wonder the country attracts millions of young travellers each year. A working holiday in Australia offers not just a chance to explore this immense and diverse country but also to live like a local—working to support your travels and immersing yourself in Australian culture.
What sets Global Work and Travel apart from others in the industry is their ability to remove the common stresses and anxieties of relocating to a new country. Securing a job, sorting out accommodation, and understanding visa regulations can be daunting, especially if you’re going it alone. With Global Work and Travel, you’re never truly on your own. Their package provides an all-encompassing service that allows you to focus on the adventure ahead, rather than getting bogged down in logistics.
Australia’s working holiday visa scheme allows travellers from eligible countries to stay for up to 12 months, and for those with a taste for more, you can extend your visa for a second or third year by meeting specific criteria, such as working in rural areas or specific industries. This means your adventure doesn’t have to end with a single year—Global Work and Travel supports you every step of the way if you decide to extend your stay.
Lite vs Plus plans
Global Work and Travel offers two distinctive packages for those embarking on a working holiday in Australia: the Lite and Plus options. Both are designed to give travellers a seamless experience, but the Plus plan takes it a step further. The Plus plan is approx. £300 more expensive due to the additional features.
Lite plan
This package is tailored for those seeking a structured and secure working holiday. With the Lite plan, you’ll receive a guaranteed job match before you even leave your home country. This means you’ll hit the ground running in Australia, with peace of mind knowing that your employment is sorted. The Lite plan focuses on the essentials, offering support with visa applications, accommodation arrangements, and ensuring your arrival in Australia is stress-free.
It’s the ideal choice for first-time travellers who want a straightforward, well-organised experience.
Plus plan
For those looking for a more expansive adventure, the Plus plan goes above and beyond. In addition to securing a guaranteed job match in Australia, the Plus package offers the opportunity to extend your working holiday to a second country. Perhaps you’ll fancy spending a summer as a ski instructor in New Zealand or working in a lively London pub after your time in Australia? The Plus package opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to explore multiple destinations during your working holiday experience.
Alongside job matches, the Plus plan includes extra perks like guided tours, local excursions, and more comprehensive visa support for your second country.
Both plans share a core philosophy: ensuring you are well-prepared, well-supported, and fully immersed in your adventure. Starting with Lite doesn’t mean you have to limit your experience. If you begin your journey and decide you want more, upgrading to the Plus plan is easy and flexible.
Requirements
Securing an Australian working holiday visa is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key requirements you’ll need to meet. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- You must be 18 to 35 years of age
- You must be a citizen from either the UK, Canada, France, Germany (for the Visa Subclass 417)
- You must be a citizen from either the USA, China or Brazil (for the Visa Subclass 462)
- You must provide proof of AUD $5,000 in savings to support your initial stay
- Have no criminal convictions in the past five years
- Be in good health
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
The Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417 is one of the most popular choices for young adults looking to spend a year in Australia, balancing work with travel. It’s a flexible visa that allows holders to work across a wide range of industries, making it the perfect way to fund your adventures around the country.
The Subclass 417 visa is available to citizens of specific countries with reciprocal agreements with Australia. These countries include:
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- France
- Germany
- Ireland
- Italy
- Denmark
- Netherlands
- Sweden
- Finland
- Norway
- Japan
- Belgium
- South Korea
Generally, the age requirement for applicants is between 18 and 30 years old, but for some nationalities (including the UK, Canada, and Ireland), the age limit extends to 35.
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
The Work and Holiday Visa Subclass 462 is similar in many ways to the Subclass 417 visa, but it caters to a different set of countries. The main differences lie in eligibility criteria and the requirements applicants must meet before applying.
The Subclass 462 visa is available to citizens of countries that do not have the same reciprocal agreements with Australia as those under the Subclass 417 visa. Eligible countries for the Subclass 462 include:
- United States
- Argentina
- Brazil
- China
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Turkey
- Mexico
The application process can be complex, but Global Work and Travel’s visa guidance ensures your application is correct and successful, so you don’t encounter any delays.
Inclusions
- Guaranteed job match pre-arrival
- 2nd country job match
- Dedicated Trip Coordinator
- Working holiday visa guidance
- Pre-Departure Guide
- Personal Travel Concierge
- Private airport transfer
- 4 nights of hostel accommodation
- "Welcome to Australia" virtual orientation
- Aus SIM card & bank account
- Various experiences in either Melbourne or the Gold Coast
- Permanent accommodation resources
- Ongoing local team support
- Global Emergency Line
- gWorld and Social app access
- Marketplace deals
- £150 off your next trip
Details
Picture yourself working on the sun-drenched Whitsunday Island, surrounded by the sparkling blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Or maybe you’re nestled in a cosy café in Melbourne, serving up flat whites to the city’s vibrant crowd. Whatever your preference, Global Work and Travel makes sure you have a job that fits your skills and interests before you even arrive.
For many travellers, the biggest challenge when moving to a new country is finding employment. Searching for jobs while living off your savings can be a stressful and costly experience. However, Global Work and Travel’s Guaranteed Job Match Pre-Arrival means that the moment you step off the plane, you can breathe easy knowing your employment is already secured.
Your initial orientation will take place in either Melbourne, a cultural hub filled with art, music, and an exciting food scene, or Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, where beaches stretch for miles, and outdoor activities are part of everyday life. These cities offer the perfect introduction to Australian life, giving you time to settle in, meet new friends, and prepare for the adventure ahead.
After four nights in a top-rated hostel, you’ll have everything sorted—from a local bank account and tax file number to a mobile SIM card, ensuring you’re ready to start your Australian journey on the right foot.
Itinerary
The journey begins before you even leave home, with Global’s team helping you arrange flights, insurance, and providing you with a Pre-Departure Guide that covers everything you need to know.
Day 1
Upon arrival, a private transfer takes you to your hostel in either Melbourne or Surfers Paradise, where you’ll spend your first four nights. Use this time to explore your new surroundings and meet fellow travellers.
Day 2
Attend a virtual orientation session, where you’ll learn all the ins and outs of living and working in Australia. You’ll also get essential tools, including an Australian SIM card, a bank account, and your Tax File Number—everything you need to hit the ground running.
Day 3 & 4
In Melbourne, you’ll ascend the famous Skydeck for stunning views of the city, followed by a bar crawl through its vibrant nightlife. Or, if you’ve chosen the Gold Coast, get ready for an unforgettable wildlife encounter or a tour of the lush hinterlands.
After that
From here, the possibilities are endless. With Global Work and Travel’s support, you can land a second job in another country, take part in exclusive side trips, and attend Global Traveller meetups to connect with others on the same journey.
Jobs & locations
One of the most exciting aspects of a working holiday in Australia is the vast range of job opportunities and locations available to you.
Whether you’re looking to work in a bustling city, a quiet coastal town, or deep in the rugged Outback, there’s something for every kind of traveller. The diversity of work available not only allows you to fund your travels but also to experience Australia’s many unique environments, from iconic cities to remote landscapes.
Through Global Work and Travel’s extensive network of employers across the country, you can find yourself working in a variety of industries, gaining valuable skills, and meeting like-minded people from around the world.
- Bars, cafés & restaurants
- Island resorts & hotels
- The great Aussie outback
- Labour & construction
- Theme parks & tour operators
- Ski resorts
- Second year visa roles
- Sales & promotions
A working holiday in Australia allows you to fund your travels while gaining invaluable work experience. With Global Work and Travel, you’re not limited to one type of job or location—you have the flexibility to move between different industries and regions, making the most of your time in this incredible country.
From the glittering cities to the remote Outback, there’s a job waiting for you that fits your skills, interests, and sense of adventure. Whether you want to surf by day and work by night, or save up for side trips to Bali or New Zealand, the opportunities are endless.
Here’s a closer look at some of the incredible places where you could find yourself working during your working holiday in Australia:
Sydney
As Australia’s largest city, Sydney is a dynamic metropolis offering a wide range of job opportunities, particularly in hospitality, retail, and tourism. Sydney is known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, as well as its stunning beaches, including Bondi and Manly.
Working here allows you to live in one of the world’s most famous cities while enjoying its vibrant cultural scene, excellent dining options, and year-round events.
Job types: Hospitality (bars, cafés, restaurants), tourism (hotels, tour guides), retail, administrative roles.
Sydney offers a fast-paced environment where you’ll never be short of things to do on your days off. Whether you’re surfing at Bondi or exploring the city’s cultural hotspots, Sydney is perfect for those who enjoy a bustling urban lifestyle.
Melbourne
Melbourne is often described as Australia’s cultural capital, known for its eclectic mix of art, music, fashion, and food. The city’s thriving café culture is world-famous, making it a top destination for baristas and hospitality workers. Melbourne’s laneways are filled with street art, hidden bars, and quirky boutiques, while the city hosts countless festivals and events throughout the year, from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival to the Australian Open tennis tournament.
Job types: Hospitality (barista, waitstaff), retail, administrative roles, creative industries (arts, media).
Working in Melbourne offers a more laid-back vibe compared to Sydney but with just as much excitement. Its reputation as a melting pot of culture means you’ll never be far from a new experience, whether it’s discovering the latest pop-up café or enjoying live music at a local venue.
Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is the ultimate destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its golden beaches, surfing culture, and year-round sunshine, the Gold Coast is a haven for travellers looking to balance work with play.
It’s also home to a large tourism industry, with plenty of jobs in hotels, resorts, and theme parks. The region’s laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty make it a popular spot for working holidaymakers.
Job types: Hospitality (bars, restaurants, resorts), tourism (theme parks, tour operators), retail, adventure sports instructors.
Living and working on the Gold Coast offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re surfing at sunrise, exploring the nearby rainforests, or working in a luxury resort, you’ll experience the quintessential Australian coastal life.
Brisbane
As Queensland’s capital, Brisbane is a growing city with a laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want the amenities of a large city without the hustle and bustle of Sydney or Melbourne. Brisbane’s subtropical climate means it enjoys warm weather almost year-round, and it’s close to beautiful beaches, including the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. The city is also home to a strong hospitality and retail sector, making it an excellent spot for finding work.
Job types: Hospitality, retail, administrative roles, construction, tourism.
Brisbane is ideal for those who want a balance between work and leisure. With its proximity to some of Australia’s most beautiful coastlines and its own riverfront attractions, you’ll find plenty to do both during and after work.
Whitsunday Islands
For those seeking a tropical paradise, the Whitsunday Islands offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in Australia. Situated on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef, these islands are famous for their white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Many travellers find work in the luxury resorts and hotels scattered across the islands, and the chance to live and work in such an idyllic setting is a dream come true for many.
Job types: Resort staff, hospitality, tourism (boat tours, diving instructors), spa and wellness roles.
Living and working in the Whitsundays is an experience like no other. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the reef, enjoy world-class diving and snorkelling, and be part of a community of workers who are just as passionate about travel and adventure as you are.
Cairns
Cairns, located in tropical Far North Queensland, is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. This thriving tourism hub offers plenty of work in the hospitality and adventure tourism industries. Whether you’re guiding visitors on reef tours or working in a bustling café, Cairns is perfect for those looking to combine work with exploring one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders.
Job types: Hospitality, tourism (reef tours, dive instructors, adventure guides), retail.
Cairns offers a tropical climate, lush surroundings, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Working here provides the chance to explore one of the most famous natural sites in the world while enjoying a laid-back, beachy atmosphere.
The Outback
For those seeking a truly unique experience, the Outback offers a chance to work in some of the most remote and rugged parts of Australia. Jobs in the Outback are often related to agriculture, mining, or hospitality in rural towns.
The work can be physically demanding, but it’s well-compensated, and many roles come with accommodation, allowing you to save while experiencing the true heart of Australia.
Job types: Farm work, cattle station hands, Outback pub staff, construction, tourism (guides, camp operators).
The Outback provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in a part of Australia that few travellers get to see. From vast desert plains to ancient rock formations, the landscape is awe-inspiring, and the communities here are small but incredibly welcoming.
Perth
Perth, on Australia’s west coast, is known for its stunning beaches, sunny climate, and vibrant arts scene. As one of the most isolated major cities in the world, Perth has a unique charm, offering a slower pace of life compared to Australia’s east coast cities.
The mining industry plays a significant role in the economy here, but there are also plenty of opportunities in hospitality, retail, and tourism.
Job types: Hospitality, tourism, construction, mining support roles, retail.
Perth’s beautiful surroundings make it an appealing place to live and work. You can spend your weekends exploring nearby Rottnest Island, famous for its quokkas, or visiting the world-renowned Margaret River wine region.
Promo code
Unlock the adventure of an Australian working holiday with our exclusive deal. Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save £50 off any product or service from Global Work and Travel.
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save £50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save £50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save $50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save $50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
FAQ
What is a working holiday in Australia?
A working holiday in Australia allows young travellers to live, work, and explore the country for up to 12 months. With the right visa, you can work in various industries like hospitality, tourism, construction, and more to fund your travels while experiencing Australian culture.
What are the differences between the Subclass 417 and Subclass 462 visas?
The Subclass 417 visa is available to citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements, such as the UK, Canada, and France. The Subclass 462 visa is for other nationalities, like the USA and China, and includes additional requirements such as education qualifications and proof of English proficiency. Both visas allow you to work and travel for up to 12 months.
What types of jobs are available on a working holiday in Australia?
Job opportunities range from hospitality and tourism roles, like working in cafés, bars, and hotels, to outdoor work such as farm labour or construction. Popular roles include baristas, resort staff, tour guides, and even positions in Australia’s Outback or ski resorts.
What are the most popular cities and regions to work in during a working holiday in Australia?
Popular locations include:
- Sydney: For city life and iconic landmarks.
- Melbourne: Renowned for its café culture and art scene.
- Gold Coast: A beach lover’s paradise.
- Whitsunday Islands: For tropical resort work.
- Outback: Experience the rural heart of Australia.
Can I extend my stay in Australia after my working holiday?
Yes, both Subclass 417 and Subclass 462 visa holders can apply for a second-year visa by completing 88 days of specified work in regional Australia, such as farm work or construction. A third-year extension is also possible if you meet additional work requirements.
Do I need to secure a job before arriving in Australia?
With Global Work and Travel, you can secure a job before you arrive in Australia. They offer a Guaranteed Job Match Pre-Arrival, ensuring you have employment waiting for you when you land, helping you avoid stress and financial strain.
What is the best region to work in if I want to live near the beach?
If you love the beach, the Gold Coast, Whitsunday Islands, and Cairns are ideal. These areas are known for their stunning coastlines, tropical weather, and jobs in hospitality, resorts, and tourism.
How much can I expect to earn on a working holiday in Australia?
Australia has a high minimum wage, often around A$23 per hour. The pay can vary depending on the job and location, with roles in hospitality, construction, and rural work often offering competitive rates.
What support does Global Work and Travel offer during a working holiday in Australia?
Global Work and Travel provide visa guidance, job matching, accommodation assistance, and ongoing local support through their offices in Melbourne and the Gold Coast. They also offer help with flights, setting up bank accounts, and more to make your transition seamless.
Is accommodation included in my working holiday package?
Global Work and Travel offer four nights of accommodation in either Melbourne or the Gold Coast when you first arrive. After that, they help you secure accommodation, either through job placements that include housing or by providing advice on finding a house share.
Why Global Work and Travel
When it comes to a working holiday in Australia, Global Work and Travel offer a level of expertise and support that is hard to match. They’ve been in the business for over a decade and have helped nearly 90,000 travellers realise their dreams. But what truly sets them apart?
- Guaranteed Job Match: Many companies struggle to offer job placements to travellers, but Global Work and Travel ensures you have a guaranteed job before you even leave home, or within the first few days of arrival. This security is a game-changer, especially when navigating the uncertainties of living abroad.
- Second Country Job Match: The adventure doesn’t have to stop in Australia. With the Plus plan, you can seamlessly transition to another country, extending your working holiday and expanding your horizons.
- Comprehensive Support: From visa applications and travel insurance to securing accommodation and setting up local essentials like bank accounts, Global Work and Travel take care of the details. This ensures that you can focus on enjoying your new life down under.
- Local Offices: With two local offices in Melbourne and the Gold Coast, you’ll have on-the-ground support should you need it. Whether it’s advice on navigating your new job, or simply a friendly face to talk to
- Lifetime deposit guarantee
- Worldwide support
- 15+ years experience
- 94,000+ customers
- Payment plans
Other working holiday programs
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save £50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save £50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save $50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save $50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
Reserve with a £1 deposit now
Reserve with a $1 deposit now
Secure your place today and pay later. Use our promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” and save £50 🎉
Secure your place today and pay later. Use our promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” and save $50 🎉
