A long trip to the southern hemisphere is on many people’s bucket lists, but how will you spend your time when you get there? Can you swing it so that all of your time is dedicated to experiences? Or should you get the type of visa that allows you to work while you’re there to give you more financial freedom?
On one hand, working in Australia is what many backpackers do, but on the other hand, not working will allow more free time to explore the beautiful land down under.
Is a Working Holiday in Australia Right for You?
There are several possibilities when it comes to funding an extended trip to Australia. Certain options will be aimed specifically at gap year students, but if you’re older (but under 30) and hoping to live out your travel dreams, there are still plenty of things you can do.
What you need to know about working in Australia – Getting a Visa
Travelling to Australia requires a visa whether you choose to work or not – even children require a visa for Australia. Usually once you’ve applied for your Australia visa, it’ll take a few working days to be granted, so make sure you apply for it in plenty of time.
There are different types available, depending on how you plan to spend your trip. You need to decide whether you’ll work or not before you apply. The eVisitor visa is probably the most popular one, but it doesn’t allow you to undertake paid work whilst you’re there. If you’re hoping to work while you travel, you will need a Working Holiday Visa or a work permit.
Types of work you can undertake on the Working Holiday Visa
Any type of work is permitted when travelling with a working holiday visa. Some people choose to extend their stay and need a second one, which comes with some limitations. In order to qualify, you need to have completed at least three months of either, agricultural labour, fishing, tree farming and felling, mining or construction – bear this in mind.
Employment options to consider
A lot of gap year travellers opt for farm work because it’s available at different times of the year, depending where you are. The work is seasonal, but as each state has different climates, timing your travelling with the farming season is an option.
Nannying is also a popular choice for visiting workers as is can be both casual and flexible.
Some people who have planned the journey for some time are able to teach English as a foreign language remotely whilst they travel. All you need is a laptop, WiFi and the relevant qualifications. Usually the requirement is a degree and a short course to obtain a qualification in TEFL.
If you don’t want to work
It’s understand if your travels plans only involve exploring and working is what you’re trying to escape from – there are other options. If you own your own place, you could put all your valuables in storage and either let your property on a short-term basis. Alternatively, if you’re in a sought after area near all the action, you could make some money renting it out with Air B&B.
Depending on your disposable income, it is possible to save up enough money to pay for your year away. This is probably the most difficult option, even though it’s one of the most sensible.
There are a few other ways you can go on a gap year without getting into debt, you just need to do your research.
Gap year programs
Gap year programs allow you to plan every bit of your Australian stay so that there are no surprises along the way. Each program will vary in length and price, so do your research. These programs aren’t a one-size-fits-all kind of deal, so don’t go off recommendations alone. Your idea of a fantastic gap year may be nothing like your neighbour’s mum’s cousin’s.
Investigate what the program entails, where exactly it will take you and how long you’ll spend in Australia. More affordable gap year programs might cost less because they make fewer arrangements for you. Check the level of support you’re hoping for before you commit.
Once you’ve got your heart set on an extended trip to Australia, all you need to do is make a checklist and do your research. Ideally, you should plan well, get your visa early and save as much money as possible before you go. Have a great trip!
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