Australia working holiday guide for Canadians: Make your way down under

On this page

• Working Holiday Australia
• Visas
  • Entering Australia
  • Working Holiday visa
• Second Working Holiday visa
  • Second Working Holiday visa
  • Third Working Holiday visa
  • Eligible regional areas
  • Approved industries for specified work
  • Evidence of specified work
  • Tips for completing specified work
  • Useful websites and contacts
  • Challenges
• Checklist and customs
  • Checklist
  • Canadian clubs in Australia
  • Customs
  • Preparation tips
  • Prohibited drugs
• Travel smart
  • Mobile phones
  • Registration of Canadians abroad
  • Tipping
  • Travel insurance
  • Travel Smart App
• Stay safe and healthy
  • General tips
  • Bushwalking and hiking
  • Emergency dial 000
  • Wildlife
  • Travel outside Australia
  • Beaches
  • Sun safety
• Résumé writing
  • Useful tips and advice
  • Job search and recruiters
• Job search
  • Useful tips
  • Skills shortage
  • Key industries and trends
  • Farm jobs
• Training and certification
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
  • Road traffic control
  • Working with children
  • Other occupational licences
• Your workplace rights
  • Australian workplace conditions
  • Australian workplace culture
• Pay rate guide
• Money matters
  • Currency
  • Pension or superannuation
  • Tax file number
  • Setting up an Australian bank account
• Cost of living guide
• General tips
  • Driving and cycling
  • Proof of age and legal drinking age
  • Short term accommodation
  • Long term accommodation
• Disclaimer

© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, 2020

Cat. no. Ci4-209/1-2020E-PDF

ISSN 978-0-660-35133-9

IRCC - 2823 A-10-2020

Working Holiday Australia

The Government of Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) Program facilitates arrangements with different countries around the world to make it easier for you to travel and work in another country, gain valuable international work experience in a foreign country, or simply travel the globe and work in different places along the way. Visit Canada.ca/iec for more information.

Justice Brooks

I graduated from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and completed an internship with Columbia University. I landed a job that brought me to Africa and Australia for documentary work. After that, I relocated to London, UK, on a Working Holiday visa, through IEC. I toured all around Europe. About three months before my Working Holiday visa for the UK expired, I got a job at a TV channel based in Sydney, Australia. I accepted the job and relocated to Sydney (again, on a Working Holiday visa I got through IEC). I am currently working toward staying in Australia for another year. The message I want to get across is that the Working Holiday visa isn’t only for backpackers. It’s a valuable tool for young professionals who want to travel and work abroad. The experiences both on and off the job are something you just can’t put a price on.

Rachel Lamarche

My first goal in coming to Australia was to try something new and different from the very comfortable life I had back home. I have gained knowledge about myself, developed life skills and had to be resourceful countless times. I have gained independence and a certain confidence that I can make it pretty much anywhere if I put my mind to it. Make sure you see as many new things as you can! Use social media to learn about all of the amazing events happening in every city.

Sarah Louis-Jean

Australia is such an amazing country and very welcoming to travellers. There are many organizations that can help you plan your trip, wherever you are. When you are there, feel free to share your needs with your friends regarding job hunting or apartment searching. You can quickly get the advice you need from them and the locals. Enjoy your trip to the fullest!

Visas

Entering Australia

Passports are an absolute requirement when entering Australia. All Canadians must have a current, valid passport. All non-Australian citizens must have a valid visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) to gain entry and remain in Australia. eTAs are issued for short-stay tourists and business travellers, and they are arranged electronically. If you’ve been approved for a working holiday visa, you do not require an eTA.

Canadians who are planning to stay in Australia less than 3 months require only an eTA. Learn more about the eTA. However, if you plan to stay longer than 3 months or work, a visa is required. For more information on visas, visit

• Department of Home Affairs - Immigration and citizenship
• Living abroad – A Canadian’s guide to working, studying, volunteering or retiring in a foreign country

Working Holiday visa

Through Australia’s Working Holiday initiative, you can spend up to a year travelling, working and living in Australia. If you’re a Canadian citizen between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive), you may be eligible to partake in the initiative. The Working Holiday visa allows you to work for up to 12 months during your stay in Australia. If you intend to work while you are in Australia, you must apply for your visa prior to your arrival in Australia. You will need to meet certain health, character and financial requirements.

Under the Working Holiday initiative, you are able to do any kind of work during your time in Australia. Usually, Working Holiday visa holders are limited to a maximum period of 6 months with any employer. Work is not a mandatory requirement for those on a Working Holiday visa; therefore, undertaking work is optional for a Working Holiday participant.

Second Working Holiday visa

Second Working Holiday visa

Under the Working Holiday initiative, you may be eligible to obtain a second 12-month Working Holiday visa if you have completed a minimum of 3 months (88 days) of “specified work” (such as fruit picking, construction, and mining) in an eligible regional area. With a second Working Holiday visa, you can either extend your stay or come back for another year before your 36th birthday.

Learn more about Australia's Working Holiday visa.

Third Working Holiday visa

If you complete six months of specified work in an eligible regional area during your second Working Holiday, you may be eligible to apply for a third 12-month Working Holiday.

Eligible regional areas

Eligible regional areas are located in New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia. For specific listings of eligible regional areas by postcode, check the specified work for the Working Holiday visa.

Approved industries for specified work

• Plant and animal cultivation
• Fishing and pearling
• Tree farming and felling
• Mining
• Construction
• Bushfire recovery work (including volunteer work) in declared bushfire affected areas, after July 31, 2019

Specified work is any type of work described at the link below, and it must be the primary role, function or activity performed during your employment. Supporting work, such as bookkeeping, in any industry described in the list above does not meet the definition of specified work. Learn more about specified work for the Working Holiday visa.

Tips for completing specified work

• Be careful when finding work. Your employer should have an Australian business number (ABN). You should also ensure your job offer is in writing.
• Know what you should be paid and your workplace rights. See the websites below for more information.
• Keep your own work records. Record your hours and the days you have worked.
• Leave plenty of time to complete the required specified work in regional areas because the required duration is in calendar days and you may need to spend more days there in some cases if severe weather conditions prohibit harvesting or working on certain days.

Useful websites and contacts

You have the right to contact authorities should you encounter unfair workplace treatment or wish to make any complaints.

• Fair Work Ombudsman (workplace rights and obligations in Australia)
• Safe Work Australia (workplace safety)
• Australian Human Rights Commission
• Fair Work Commission – Australia's national workplace relations tribunal
• Australian Taxation Office

Challenges

Be prepared for the challenge of working in a rural community. Here are some common challenges and ways to prepare.

• Weather conditions – Heat and sun exposure can lead to dehydration and sometimes severe sunburn. Wear a wide-brimmed hat that protects your neck and ears, keep your shoulders covered and drink plenty of water.
• Remote settings – Many of the postcodes are in remote areas, so be prepared for limited public transport options and less access to services.
• No phone coverage – Ask locals which mobile network they are with and consider using the same service.
• Long hours – You will be working long hours outdoors. The work can be repetitive. The best part of farm work is the people you will meet while working. Socialize and make friends with fellow staff.
• Physical labour – Working on a farm is physically demanding. Be certain you are prepared for the challenge. Learn safe workplace practices for working on a farm.

Checklist and customs

Checklist

Here is a list of documents to leave with family or a friend in Canada:

• a copy of your itinerary, including flight details and booked accommodation
• bank account details
• credit card and debit card numbers
• any contact details, so you can be reached in case of an emergency
• a photocopy of the important details in your passport
• a photocopy of your Working Holiday visa approval

Canadian clubs in Australia

There is a network of Canadian groups in Australia that can provide opportunities to socialize or network with fellow Canadians and professionals during your Working Holiday.

• Quebec Oz Club
• Canadian Australian Chamber Of Commerce

Customs

When arriving in Australia, keep in mind that the Australian Border Force is very strict. There are tight restrictions on carrying drugs (including prescription medications), certain foods and plants. There is a possibility that these items may be disposed of or put under quarantine by Australian Customs. Harsh fines and penalties apply to anyone caught breaking the rules.

Temporary visa holders face the risk of visa cancellation if they fail to answer questions asked by a biosecurity officer, fail to declare dangerous items, knowingly provide false or misleading information, or bring prohibited “high-risk biosecurity goods” into the country. The visa can be cancelled while the holder is still in immigration clearance and the person will be sent home. Another consequence is a three-year ban from applying for most types of temporary visas.

If you take prescription medication, be sure to obtain a letter from the prescribing doctor stating to whom and for what they are prescribed. Keep the letter easily accessible when travelling, so you can present it to authorities if required. Learn more about Australia’s customs and quarantine regulations.

Prohibited drugs

Australia has strict regulations and restrictions to stop the importation of prohibited drugs. When you arrive in and leave Australia, it is important to remember that it is illegal to carry drugs, including cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, hallucinogens, heroin, steroids and amphetamines. The possession, cultivation or trafficking of prohibited drugs, even in small quantities, is a very serious offence, and you could be heavily fined or face prosecution.

If you are planning on travelling outside Australia, to Indonesia or elsewhere, be aware that some countries have harsh penalties and even practice the death penalty for individuals convicted of possession or trafficking of illegal drugs.

Source: Drug laws in Australia – Department of Health and Aged Care

Travel Smart

Mobile phones

It is wise to have your mobile phone unlocked before leaving, and then purchase a SIM card upon arrival in Australia. Finalize any payments on your Canadian phone contract, as you may be in Australia for an extended amount of time. WhistleOut gives you information on phone plans and coverage that may be useful if you are working in regional areas.

Registration of Canadians Abroad

This free Government of Canada service enables officials to contact you and assist you in case of an emergency abroad. Learn more about the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

Tipping

Generally speaking, it is not customary to tip in Australia. Unlike in Canada, tipping is not expected, as basic wage rates in the hospitality industry are generally well protected, and Australian waiters earn a fixed amount. In Australia, there are no obligatory gratuities or built-in charges. However, a 10% goods and services tax is included in the total on your bill.

Travel Insurance

It is absolutely imperative that you purchase insurance before you travel. You should also check your provincial or territorial health care insurance plan provider, as you may be able to maintain coverage during your stay. Ensure that your health insurance covers the duration of your stay and includes hospitalization and repatriation. Without proper insurance, an accident or mishap that results in medical assistance, time in hospital or cancellations could cost you thousands of dollars. It is ideal to shop around when choosing your insurance. Be sure to read the fine print.

Stay safe and healthy

General tips

• Don’t hitchhike. Not only is hitchhiking in Australia unsafe, it is illegal.
• When travelling long distances, carry plenty of fuel, food and water.
• When driving for extended periods, remember to take a break every 2 hours and “stop, revive, survive”.
• It is important to always pack your own luggage and lock it securely.
• If you’re staying in a hostel, never leave your luggage unattended.
• If you’re staying in a hostel, make sure your belongings and passport are securely locked in a locker (always carry your own universally approved padlock; most hostels have padlock requirements).

Bushwalking and hiking

When planning a bushwalk or hike, research the distance and difficulty of the route. Make sure it is safe, and check bushfire warnings. Tell someone where you are going. Learn more about safety in national parks.

Emergency dial 000

In the event of an emergency, dial 000 (for police, ambulance and fire services). In some remote parts of Australia, and when bushwalking, there is no mobile phone service. You will need to take a radio on extended or more remote hikes. Download the emergencyplus app.

Wildlife

Avoid snake and spider bites by wearing protective, enclosed footwear when bushwalking or hiking. Marine stingers (jellyfish) are present in the northern tropical waters from November to April. During this time, you can swim only within stinger-resistant enclosures (found on most popular beaches). It is important to wear protective clothing when swimming, snorkelling or diving on the Outer Barrier Reef. Always observe warning signs.

Travel outside Australia

If you wish to travel to Asia or elsewhere, check travel vaccination requirements and travel advisories for the countries you plan on visiting.

Résumé writing

Useful tips and advice

The standard format of a résumé differs from country to country.

The following tips will help you write a résumé that complies with current Australian standards.

• Always stick to the employer’s submission requirements (for example, PDF, by email, via website).
• Print your résumé on A4 paper in a clear, reasonably sized font.
• A résumé with information spreading over 2 to 4 pages is the current standard. In Australia, 1-page résumés are out of style and considered to be lacking in information, while 5-page résumés are generally considered unnecessary.
• Consistent and correct spelling is essential on any résumé. Canadian and Australian spelling are very similar, and in fact more similar than Canadian and US spelling, but there are a few differences to be aware of. For example, some verbs such as “organize” that end in -ize in Canadian spelling end in -ise in Australian spelling, and the simple past form of some verbs such as “learn” is formed by adding a -t in Australia instead of -ed. To make sure you are spelling correctly, set your word processing program to English (Australia) or English (UK) and follow any spelling prompts.
• Education is highly prized in Australia, so any studies, qualifications or training should be included on your résumé; however, try to keep it concise.
• Highlight your specific and transferable skills.
• Don’t use the first person, to avoid sounding immodest. For example, write “Spearheaded new procedure that increased productivity” instead of “I spearheaded a new procedure that increased productivity.”
• Don’t include your photo, marital status, date of birth or religion.
• Résumés are also referred to as ‘CVs’ (curriculum vitae) in Australia.

Job search

Useful tips

• Keep printed copies of your résumé on hand for any potential employers.
• Save a copy of your résumé on a USB flash drive or the Web, so you can email it to potential employers.
• Dress appropriately and approach prospective employers in a friendly, professional manner.
• Make sure the contact details you provide to potential employers are reachable, for example, a monitored email address or a mobile phone that is always powered on.
• Provide proof of all qualifications, especially for skilled jobs, such as nursing.
• Be honest and reliable. Let employers know how long you are available and give them notice when you plan to leave. Don’t promise to stay for a set period of time and then leave after a shorter period of time.
• Keep an eye out for signs in cafes, restaurants and shop windows.
• Be proactive and approach potential employers. Don’t be afraid to ask around. Exhaust all potential avenues!
• Reach out to recruiters and head-hunters. They can help you find work that suits your skills and interests, provide sector- and occupation-specific advice as well as improve your job-seeking skills. The best part is it is the employer who pays them to find candidates for the role. Learn more about working with a recruiter.
• Network, network, network! You never know what opportunities will come out of networking.
• Find more job search tips.

Skills shortage

Review the Australian government's list of occupations in demand by state and territory.

Key industries and trends

Review information on employment trends and prospects for key industries, such as health care and social assistance; retail trade; construction; mining; and professional, scientific and technical services.

Training and certification

Hospitality

All hospitality staff must hold a certification known as Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) before being eligible for employment in a licensed facility. To work in premises with gambling facilities, you will also need a Responsible Gambling Services (RGS) certification. For those with little or no hospitality experience, pub skills or barista skills, training courses may be worthwhile in order to gain the skills and experience you need to get a job. If you obtain your RSA, you can apply for jobs such as:

• bartender
• bottle shop (off-licence) attendant
• waiter
• security officer or ground controller
• licensed club staff
• volunteer worker at a licensed function

Find out more information on how and where to take your RSA or RGS course in New South Wales. Check state government websites to ensure your training provider is accredited by the state in which you plan to work.

Construction

To work on a construction site in certain states such as New South Wales, it is a requirement that you hold a general construction induction card, or white card as it is commonly known. Learn more about the general construction induction card (white card).

Road traffic control

To work as a traffic controller in New South Wales and operate a STOP/SLOW bat, it is a requirement that you hold a current traffic controller’s licence, commonly known as a blue card. Learn more about the BlueCard.

Working with children

To work with children in Australia, you must hold a valid Working with Children Card. You may wish to apply for this before you arrive. Learn more about the Working with Children Card.

Your workplace rights

Australian workplace conditions

• National minimum wage
• Hours of work, breaks and rosters

Australian workplace culture

Learn more about Australian workplace culture.

Pay rate guide

Figure 1: Average weekly total cash earnings (in Australian dollars) by industry as of May 2020

Industry	Average weekly earnings (in Australian dollars)
Mining	$2,697.50
Manufacturing	$1,526.80
Electricity, gas, water and waste services	$1,907.70
Construction	$1,683.00
Wholesale trade	$1,591.50
Retail trade	$1,259.80
Accommodation and food services	$1,139.30
Transportation, postal and warehousing	$1,662.10
Information media and telecommunications	$2,033.40
Finance and insurance services	$2,015.88
Rental, hiring and real estate services	$1,561.30
Professional, scientific and technical services	$1,965.70
Administration and support services	$1,537.90
Public administration and safety	$1,801.90
Education and training	$1,825.70
Health care and social assistance	$1,624.60
Arts and recreation services	$1,523.80
Other services	$1,339.30
All industries	$1,713.90

Source: Average Weekly Earnings, Australia – Australian Bureau of Statistics

Money matters

Currency

The Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency of Australia. You can exchange your Canadian money at most airports, banks, hotels and currency exchange vendors.

It is important to keep cash on hand for daily expenses and emergencies. Use prepaid travel cards or debit cards for the bulk of your funds and have access to a credit card for unexpected expenses.

You can use your Canadian bank card at any ATM in Australia if it has the Cirrus or Maestro logo on it.

Pension or superannuation

If you work in Australia, in most cases your employer has to put money into a superannuation fund on your behalf. This money is usually set aside for your retirement or pension fund, but if you leave Australia permanently, you may be eligible to claim your superannuation. Find out more about how to claim your superannuation when you leave Australia.

Tax file number

If you intend to work during your time in Australia, you will need to obtain a tax file number (TFN). If you commence working prior to getting your TFN, you will have 28 days to provide it to your employer.

It is important to get a start on this as soon as possible because, until you provide your employer with your TFN, you will be taxed at the highest possible rate. It can take up to a month to receive your TFN.

You will need to complete an obligatory tax return when your Working Holiday finishes or when you stop working. You may be eligible for a tax refund.

Ask your employer for a payment summary showing your total income and the amount of tax withheld, so you will be able to file your tax return.

The Australian Taxation Office has information on how to apply for a TFN online and when to file your tax return.

Cost of living guide

Sources:

• The Australian Government's cost of living guide: Education and living costs in Australia
• A basic goods and services price comparison between Australia and Canada: Cost of Living Comparison Between Australia And Canada
• A city, lifestyle and currency calculator: Cost of Living Calculator - Insider Guides
• Currency converter: Xe

General tips

Driving and cycling

Unlike Canadians, Australians drive on the left side of the road. It is important to remember to look right then left or just make it a habit to look both ways before crossing the street. Be aware of the opposite direction of oncoming traffic.

In Australia, laws and driving regulations differ from state to state. Some states require you to carry an international licence with your current foreign licence. Other states request you carry your current foreign driver’s licence together with a formal translation of your licence into English. Learn more about licensing regulations and driving with an overseas licence.

Rules and legislation pertaining to cyclists vary from state to state. Make sure to follow signs and always wear a helmet when cycling to ensure your safety. Failing to obey road or cycling rules may result in a fine. Learn more about Australia’s states’ cycling rules.

Proof of age and legal drinking age

A proof of age card is for young people over the age of 18, and can be used for general identification as well as accessing bars and pubs (the legal drinking age in Australia is 18).

If you hold an English-language driver's licence, it may be used as proof of age. It is advised not to use your passport as proof of age. If your passport is lost or damaged, replacing it is a long and expensive process.

In Australia, the blood alcohol concentration limits when driving are lower than in Canada. The legal maximum may vary depending on the state and the driver’s experience. Learn more about blood alcohol levels in Australia.

Short-term accommodation

Hostels are ideal if you are travelling on a tight budget and looking to meet other young travellers along the way. Visit Hostelworld for a list of hostels.

On social media

• Facebook: CanadiansAbroadIEC
• X: canadadownunder
• Youtube: CanadaSydney
• Instagram: iec_abroad
• LinkedIn

Disclaimer

The Government of Canada has prepared this summary as a general overview, based on secondary sources of information. While all care has been taken in the preparation, the Government of Canada does not accept responsibility for any losses suffered by people relying on the information contained here.

Readers should take note that the Government of Canada does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information contained in this summary, nor does it necessarily endorse the organizations listed herein. Readers should independently verify the accuracy and reliability of the information. The content in no way reflects the official policy or opinions of the Government of Canada.