Work & Travel Australia

What are the start dates for 2023?

Arrivals are Tuesdays and your accommodation will be pre-booked until Saturday morning. Extra nights can be easily added before or after this window.

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

U.S. citizens between 18 and 30 have access to a Work and Holiday Visa in Australia, which is a government authorization letting you travel and take on paid seasonal work for up to one year (with the possibilities for second- and third-year extensions). InterExchange provides an initial arrival package so you will meet a few new people, enjoy activities around Sydney, and have orientation and support from seasoned program staff available to speak with you about your job search and other logistics. This team is available both in-person and a member lounge available to you, and of course also via phone or email.

For those seeking a job prior to traveling we offer a pre-placement option, described in our job support information.

You can read more on the concept of a working holiday or drop us a line.

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 hospitality, retail, office temping, manual labor, fruit picking, retail, and event set up. Jobs can range from one day to a few months.

How do you help me find a job?

You’ll receive a pre-departure handbook including basic job search tips. Upon arrival you will attend an orientation where you’ll be introduced to other services including the Jobs Desk, job support staff, and more. You are encouraged to 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). You can add this before traveling 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, but this depends a lot 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. Many employers pay bi-weekly but some pay monthly.

How much will I earn in Australia?

Australia’s mininum wage is AUD $21.38/hour as of 2022. Based on Australia’s laws, individuals under 21 can be paid less but there is a high demand for seasonal employees so there are normally many opportunities to earn upwards of AUD $22/hour.

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, but 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?

Sydney and Melbourne are generally the most expensive cities for accommodation. You’ll probably pay around $200 AUD for a shared room per week if you are in short-term accommodation. If you want your own room, it’ll cost more.

If you are staying in a town or city, it’s worth thinking about staying in an apartment, or sharing an apartment. It’s generally cheaper to do this, and you’ll be paying by the week rather than by the day.

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.