The Jobs

Can I choose where I go?
Location will depend upon the type of work, the time of your stay and your experience. Currently we are offering pre-placement in agriculture and tourism. Here is more information about work opportunities.

How much do I get paid?
Your hourly rate will vary dependent on the type of work that you do and your age. All work is paid at minimum award rates and most jobs will pay AUD 23.00/hour or higher.

What happens if I don’t like my job?
The most difficult period after starting a job is the first few weeks. For agricultural work you might initially find the work physically tiring and you may not be acclimatized to the weather. This is natural and you should plan for this.

In the same way working in hospitality can be tiring, particularly with long shifts or a lot of time on your feet. We strongly encourage you to wait and become accustomed to the job you are doing, take the time to acclimatize and get used to the people you will be working with during your placement.

Occasionally we hear from a participant who is struggling in their placement. In this case the AIFS team will assist you to try to resolve the issue. If AIFS determines that the placement cannot be continued, we will provide assistance that may include placement with another employer.

Do I need to buy a uniform?
For fruit picking you need long sleeved shirts and long trousers and a broad brimmed hat. As weather conditions will be warm we suggest cotton or breathable materials. Make sure you bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.

For hospitality work your uniform will be supplied or you employer will advise you prior to departure of any clothing requirements.

How will I get to my job?
Your employer will provide you with instructions of how to transfer to your place of employment.

Where in Australia will I be placed?
We work with employers all over Australia, however, most work will be located in regional New South Wales and Queensland.

How long after I apply will I hear about a placement?
Depending on the type of work you wish to do, you will receive notification about your work offer between 2-4 weeks for agricultural work. If you have applied for work in tourism and hospitality, you will need to complete an interview with your employer. We will contact you within 2-4 weeks of approval of your application to confirm your interview.

Is it possible for my friend and I to go and work together? Will the same employer hire us?
It is possible to work with your friend in agricultural work. Please note this preference on your application so that we can ensure that your placement is made with your friend.
Hospitality and tourism employers select employees based on skills, so the chances of an employer needing both of your skills is lower. Please note this on your application, however, we cannot guarantee this.

Do I need to do a tax return after I finish my program?
If you work in Australia, you will be required to complete a tax return. In some cases Working Holiday makers may be eligible for a tax refund. AIFS has partnered with Taxback which can help make this process stress free. For more information or to get started click here.

How much should I budget for accommodation?
This will vary by employer. We suggest around $250-300 per week for accommodation.

Do you help arrange accommodation?
Your employer will either provide you with accommodation onsite or advise you of accommodation used by workers that you can book.

Insurance

Do I need medical insurance?
Yes, you will need medical insurance to participate on the program. This should be purchased before you depart through your preferred provider.

Travel & Visas

What visa will I need?
You will travel to Australia on a Working Holiday visa that is valid for 1 year but can be extended. For more information about the Working holiday visa (subclass 462 for US) click HERE

I want to travel around Australia after I finish my work placement. Should I book now or wait?
Wait! From experience we find many people change their travel plans after they arrive in Australia. You may meet someone you want to travel with or head to a destination you had never heard of before! AIFS’ Travel desk is included in your package and have access to discounted deals and knows the best options for your budget and plans. Please also keep in mind that many tourism companies are in the process of fully setting back up and may not yet have live travel dates or updated fees.

How much should I budget for travelling?
Your budget will depend on your plans. Some travelers only travel for a few months and others for most of their time in Australia. The average travel length is 6-12 weeks. Remember, as you will be working in the first 3 months of arrival, you will earn money that will help finance your travels.

Applying

How do I apply for Work & Travel Australia?
All applications are completed online using our easy online application system. Please click HERE to book.

When will I know about my job placement?
For agricultural work we will advise you of your job placement no less than 14 days prior to your start date. In some cases due to weather, or crop readiness, placements may change at short notice. We will advise you if this occurs.