Resources
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Send us an email: workabroad [at] interexchange [dot] org or schedule a free virtual call!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the arrival dates for 2026?
Orientation activities run throughout Wednesdays – Fridays, so we suggest that you arrive by Tuesday morning to allow time to settle in!
2026 Arrival Dates:
May: 19
June: 16, 30
July: 7, 14, 21, 28
August: 4, 11, 18, 25
September: 1, 8, 15, 22
October: 6, 20, 27
November: 10, 17
December: 8
*Please note that December orientation arrivals are intentionally limited prior and during Christmas Day through New Years. Many Australians go on their vacations and holidays at that time, so hiring typically slows and pauses during that period. It is recommended to arrive prior to or before late December.
For Aussie Autumn/Winter between February – June, arrivals are grouped to 1-2 cohorts per month as there are fewer arrivals overall.
What is the Australian Work and Holiday Visa and how does InterExchange help?
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 several months at a time. Our local team has a jobs board and text/chat group alerts so you won’t miss opportunities!
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. The most successful travelers keep an open mind and take opportunities as they arise – as they often lead to more.
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?
How much will I earn in Australia?
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?
When is the best time to travel?
We support travelers year round, but the majority of travelers arrive in September/October. Another great time to arrive is January/February.
It is not recommended to arrive before the December holidays if you are looking to start working quickly. This is because many jobs fill before the tourism high season is in full swing.
See arrival dates, which fall on Tuesdays. For most participants flying from North America this means you’ll depart on a Sunday or Monday for the Tuesday arrival. If you arrive a day or two earlier, we can arrange extra nights of accommodation for you.
How does the application process work?
Our online application is free to start and easy to complete. When you are ready to submit, you’ll pay a $100 deposit that counts toward your program fee. Once we approve your application we’ll send you instructions for next steps for the work permit, and determining your travel date.
Can I leave Australia and re-enter?
Do I have to stay in Australia for 12 months?
Can I extend my Work and Holiday Visa?
Can I work for the same employer the entire time of my stay?
On the Australian Work and Holiday Visa, you can work for employers for up to a year or the duration of your visa validity. Keep in mind that many jobs will be seasonal (3-6 months), which creates great opportunities to travel before starting another job!
