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Resources

These resources should help answer any questions you have about your program. Send us an email for any more.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re available along the way for any questions but here is a general overview of how it all works!

What are the start dates for 2024?

Arrival dates occur weekly in busy seasons, and less frequently in the off-season. Arrival dates are on Tuesdays, with orientations and activities taking place over the next three days.

January 9
January 16
January 23
January 30
February 13
February 27
March 12
April 16
May 28
June 18
July 9
July 16
July 23
July 30
August 6
August 13
August 20
August 27
September 3
September 10
September 17
September 24
October 8
October 15
October 22
November 5
November 12
November 19
December 3

What is the Australian Work and Holiday Visa and how does InterExchange help?

InterExchange provides an initial arrival package, plus travel, logistics, job, and emergency-based support throughout your trip. Seasoned program staff are available both in-person, by phone, and email and can be a source of support throughout your stay in Australia.

What is the Surf Camp add-on?

The Surf Camp is a great option for those who want to continue settling in and explore another bit of Australia with new people for a few nights at the beach after the initial arrival package. Adding the Surf Camp means you’ll have two additional nights in Sydney, then transportation up to Gerroa near Seven-Mile Beach (about two hours away) where you’ll stay from Monday to Friday. Lessons and meals are provided every day. Learn more about the Surf Camp add-on. Please note that this add-on is not available during certain weeks in Australia’s winter (in 2023 it’s closed between June 19 – July 16).

What types of jobs are available?

Most jobs on a working holiday tend to be seasonal positions such as hospitality, retail, office temping, manual labor, fruit picking, retail, and event set-up. Jobs can range from one day to a few months at a time. While there are certainly busy and slow seasons, Australia’s vast land and robust backpacker tradition means great chances for finding both work and adventure year round.

How do you help me find a job?

Your pre-departure handbook includes basic job readiness tips. Upon arrival you will attend an orientation where you’ll be introduced to other services including the Jobs Desk, job support staff, and you can access one-on-one support. You are encouraged to have some flexibility for the initial start of your trip as you acclimate to your surroundings, and check-in often about open positions even if nothing is immediately available when you first arrive. Please also see our job support information.

Can I get a job placement before I travel?

We offer an optional job pre-placement service add-on for those able to commit to six months in hospitality jobs (kitchen staff, wait staff, chefs, baristas, etc) or at least three months in agricultural jobs (usually fruit picking). Some experience is required, so be sure to contact us early in your process if you are interested in this option. You can add this before traveling to secure a virtual interview, or, if you’d prefer to scope things out in Australia, you can see how things go and add the placement service later on.

How long will it take me to find a job?

Sometimes it can take 2-4 weeks to land your first job. Securing employment anywhere depends on previous experience, attitude, and the degree to which you utilize the job support available to you. Since this program is meant to be a cultural exchange and a chance to experience Australia (not only a working program) we recommend budgeting for at least a month of costs upon arrival. Please note that some employers pay bi-weekly but some may pay monthly.

How much will I earn in Australia?

Australia’s minimum wage is AUD $23.23/hour as of 2023. Based on Australia’s laws, individuals under 21 can be paid less but as there is a high demand for seasonal employees, there are normally many opportunities to earn upwards of the minimum wage.

How do I find housing?

Our support team in Australia can provide suggestions for how to book housing after your pre-booked program accommodation ends. While traveling around the country, hostels will be a great option. If you are planning on settling into a city for a few months, you might want to arrange a place for a longer stay. Many shared rooms in apartments rent week to week or month to month, so you don’t have to sign into anything for too long. Here are some other accommodation options you can consider. WWOOFing is also a great add-on option, especially if you like being outdoors.

How much does housing typically cost?

For major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, it’s recommended to budget between $200-400 weekly. Rents are often paid weekly, and accommodation prices vary by location, season, and housing type of shared room vs. single room.

When can I start?

You’ll want to arrive on one of the dates listed on the website. If you arrive a day or two earlier, we can add extra nights of accommodation for you. Many participants purchase a one-way ticket initially, allowing ultimate flexibility.

How does the application process work?

Our online application is free to start and easy to complete. Just a few forms and documents and we’re always here if you have any questions. Once we approve your application we’ll send you instructions for getting your visa, which is a simple online process. If you have any questions about the process we’re here to help.

Can I leave Australia and re-enter?

Yes. The Work and Holiday Visa is a multiple-entry visa, which means you can leave the country and come back during the 12 months your visa is valid. Make sure you are aware of entry/exit requirements for any other countries you visit.

Do I have to stay in Australia for 12 months?

No. You can stay as long as 12 months (with the option for a second-year visa), but there’s no minimum stay. We recommend staying for at least 6 months in order to get the full experience. If you can only do 3 or 4 months, you might want to contact us for some ideas so we can make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running when you arrive.

Can I extend my Work and Holiday Visa?

U.S. citizens who work in northern Australia for at least 88 days in tourism, hospitality, agriculture, forestry or fishing can apply for a second Work and Holiday visa. Those who complete 6 months of such work during their second year may apply for a third.

Can I work for the same employer the entire time of my stay?

On the Australian Work and Holiday Visa, you can only work for the same employer for up to 6 months. Keep in mind that many of the jobs you find will be shorter than this, which creates breaks to travel before you get back to work.

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Get ready to immerse yourself in Aussie culture while funding your adventures with short-term jobs.