working holiday visa
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Working in Australia during a Working Holiday Visa

26/11/2025

Working in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa is much more than just a way to finance your trip. It's a truly enriching human and professional experience. Every year, many young Belgians choose the Working Holiday Visa to explore the land of kangaroos while working there. This unique visa offers a rare freedom: the opportunity to explore a vast territory while gaining valuable international experience.

But before diving into the adventure, it's best to be well-informed. Between the administrative procedures and the numerous online scams, finding a job in Australia can prove more complex than it seems. Some choose to search on their own, while others prefer comprehensive support that guarantees a job and accommodation upon arrival.

This guide explains how to work in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa , where to find reliable offers, which sectors are recruiting the most, and what the best options are for leaving safely.

Finding a job in Australia on your own: freedom and vigilance

Where to look for a job in Australia when going on a Working Holiday Visa?

Finding a job in Australia during a Working Holiday Visa requires a bit of planning and, above all, the right instincts . There are plenty of opportunities, but you still need to know where to look and how to spot reliable job postings. Here are the main platforms and strategies to know before you leave.

The most reliable job sites

  • JobSearch (the official Australian government website) remains the go-to source for legitimate and verified job postings. You'll find positions in all sectors: hospitality, agriculture, construction, logistics, and more.
  • Seek and Indeed are the Australian equivalents of Stepstone or Jobat . They offer thousands of job postings, often updated daily, with useful filters (by region, salary or contract type).
  • Gumtree , very popular with backpackers, is full of diverse job offers. But beware, some may be scams. If an ad promises an "exceptional" salary without an interview, it's best to steer clear.

Local agencies and contacts

If you prefer to have support in your job search, you can register with a temporary employment agency (placement agency) . In Australia, major international names have a strong presence: Adecco , Randstad , Kelly Services , Hudson , Michael Page , and Manpower . But there are also many local agencies specializing in specific sectors.

Some focus on a specific sector, such as catering, healthcare, or construction. For example, Frontline has several divisions (hospitality, retail, healthcare, education, construction) and actively recruits in these sectors.

You can perform a targeted search in the Australian Yellow Pages . Type “placement agency” or “recruitment agency,” followed by the name of your city or state (e.g., “placement agency Brisbane” ). Many agencies also have physical offices in major cities like Brisbane , Sydney , Melbourne , or Perth . Some even travel to rural areas to recruit during peak season.

Door-to-door canvassing: a method that works

Unlike in Belgium, where this practice has become rare, showing up unannounced in a café or even a farm with your CV is a very common method in Australia . Australian employers appreciate direct contact and visible motivation. A smile and a positive attitude can often be enough to land a trial interview the very next day.

This is called active job searching , as opposed to passive job searching (limiting yourself to browsing online job postings). By choosing this approach, you demonstrate your enthusiasm and willingness to work. These are two highly valued qualities in Australian culture.

Some tips to maximize your chances
  • Don't limit yourself to tourist areas : the main streets are often saturated with applications. Broaden your search to residential neighborhoods or areas a little further from the city center.
  • Always ask to speak to the manager before handing in your CV. If the person is absent, find out their opening hours so you can return at a more convenient time.
  • Prepare a short introductory speech : explain who you are, where you come from, what type of position you are looking for and why you would like to work in this establishment.
  • Record your applications : each time you submit a CV, write down the name of the place, the address, and the date. This will allow you to follow up effectively a few days later.
finding work in Australia, distributing CVs
Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Focus on networking and exchanges

Never underestimate word-of-mouth : Australians love to recommend a good worker.

Talk to other travelers in hostels , on Working Holiday Visa Facebook groups , or even in person. Many find their first job thanks to a simple conversation. For example, some Belgians report landing a job on a farm after talking to a bar owner or another backpacker they met in a hostel.

The sectors that recruit the most for a Working Holiday Visa in Australia

If you're going to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa with the intention of working, it's best to target sectors that are actively recruiting. This will maximize your chances of finding a good job quickly. Here are the most promising fields right now, with concrete data.

1. Agriculture and horticulture

Agriculture remains a major pillar, particularly in regional areas. A survey by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) indicates that, although the labor shortage in horticulture has eased slightly, it remains significant.

For you: this means that the opportunities are real. Be prepared to go to rural areas, with a good contract, and don't rely solely on undeclared "good deals".

2. Construction

The construction sector is experiencing high demand. According to Jobs and Skills Australia 's 2025 report, the construction industry faces a labor shortage of approximately 60% in certain trades . For example, carpenters, electricians, bricklayers, and skilled tradespeople are in high demand, particularly in regional areas.

A construction worker profile is a great fit for a Working Holiday Visa, provided you are well-prepared. Construction jobs often require a higher level of discipline.

3. Hospitality, catering & tourism

The hotel and restaurant industry remains a dynamic sector, especially in tourist or regional areas. For you, this sector is ideal if you enjoy interacting with people, providing service, and are flexible (schedules, distances). It could be a good option to start your career.

4. Other sectors to monitor

  • Forestry, fishing, mining : a more specific sector, but opportunities exist in rural or isolated areas.
  • Local services (housekeeping, moving, event assistance) : often not specified work for the 2nd Working Holiday Visa but can finance your stay.
  • Volunteering in disaster areas (fires, floods) : less common but recognized as specified work if well organized.

VisaVacancesTravail.be's employment packages: security and support for working in Australia during a Working Holiday Visa

Finding a job in Australia during a Working Holiday Visa might seem simple on paper, but the reality is often more complex. Dubious offers, precarious contracts, unreliable employers, and so on. That's why we offer several turnkey , specifically designed for young Belgians who want to travel with peace of mind.

These programs combine guaranteed employment, arranged accommodation, and comprehensive on-site support . In short, everything is planned so you can focus on what matters most: living your Australian adventure safely .

Three options depending on your profile

  1. The Pack+ Half Pair : ideal for language and family immersion while reducing your daily expenses.
  2. The Pack+ Ranch : perfect for nature and adventure lovers wishing to live in the heart of the Australian outback.
  3. The Hospitality and Catering Pack+ : designed for those who want a guaranteed paid job from the moment they arrive, in a dynamic and international sector.

The Half Pair Pack+: cultural and linguistic immersion in Australia

half pair Australia Canada
Photo by Torsten Dederichs

A unique experience combining local life and learning English

Do you dream of living an authentic experience in Australia, while perfecting your English? The Demi-Pair program offers you this unique opportunity: share the daily life of an Australian family, improve your language level and reduce your expenses while there.

In exchange for 15 hours of help per week (babysitting, homework help, preparing light meals, or providing companionship), you will receive room and board and support for the duration of your stay. This is an ideal option if you wish to work in Australia during a Working Holiday Visa while living in a safe and supportive family environment.

A supervised and secure family immersion

With the Half Pair Pack+ , you share the daily life of a carefully selected Australian family chosen by our local partners. Each household is vetted, supervised, and supported to ensure a healthy, welcoming, and respectful environment.

You will have a private room and full or half board , depending on the placement. In exchange, you will dedicate a few hours a day to helping the family. You will be expected to look after the children, prepare snacks, accompany them to activities, or participate in the daily life of the household.

The schedule is adapted to your school timetable, allowing you to attend your English classes , enjoy your weekends and discover Australia at your own pace .

Tailored and accredited English courses

Alongside your family life, you'll take English classes at a partner school . This allows you to solidify your language skills and make rapid progress in both speaking and writing. This program combines cultural immersion with academic learning , making it an ideal combination for those who want to improve their English while enjoying a comprehensive international experience.

The courses take place in recognized schools such as Lexis English , ILSC or Browns English Language School , located in the most beautiful Australian cities:

The class schedule is designed to fit around your family's timetable, with sessions in the morning or afternoon. At the end of the program, you will receive an official Certificate of Completion , which you can include on your CV or for future projects abroad.

What the Pack+ Half Pair includes

The VisaVacancesTravail.be Half Pair Pack+ is designed to offer you a smooth, stress-free, and fully supported experience. From the moment you register, our team and local partners take care of all the steps so you can focus on what matters most: fully enjoying your stay in Australia .

The pack includes:

  • Your return flights to Australia;
  • Support for obtaining the Working Holiday visa , if you combine the two programs;
  • verified, reliable Australian host family
  • English courses offered at the partner school corresponding to your destination and level;
  • Cultural and social activities organised by the school to promote encounters and local discovery;
  • A complete pre-departure information pack , accessible via a personal Google Drive space;
  • Access to a low-cost travel desk and exclusive discounts for your Australian getaways;
  • Personalized support and 24/7 assistance throughout your stay;
  • An emergency number available at all times;
  • And finally, a certificate of completion , which can be added to your CV.

Discover the full program, prices, and registration conditions on the dedicated page:
Learn more about the Half Pair Pack+

The Ranch Pack+: Experience the Australian adventure in the heart of the Outback

Are you between 18 and 30 years old, do you love animals, and do you dream of a total immersion in Australian rural life? Our Ranch Pack+ allows you to live this unique experience!

An unparalleled human and professional experience

Australian Ranch Pack
Photo of a participant – ranch package

Working on a ranch in Australia is much more than just a job. It's a total immersion in the Outback , in close contact with nature, animals, and a culture deeply rooted in the land. With the Ranch Pack+ , you'll experience a human, linguistic, and professional adventure, all set to the rhythm of rural Australian life.

Guided by an experienced local team, you'll learn to work in a variety of environments: cattle farms, agricultural operations, equestrian centers, or family ranches . The tasks are as diverse as they are rewarding. You'll care for the animals, participate in fence maintenance, drive ATVs, or assist with the daily management of the ranch.

Beyond the professional aspect, the stay is a true life lesson. You share the daily life of passionate Australian farmers, discover the wide open spaces of Queensland and improve your English through authentic exchanges.

With a guaranteed minimum wage of $21.60/hour , often including room and board , you can save up to $40,000 per year depending on your experience and the length of your assignments. You'll leave not only with a solid income , but also with valuable skills in agriculture, logistics, or equestrian fields.

A perfectly structured process

Upon your arrival in Brisbane , the sunny capital of Queensland, you will be greeted by our local team who will assist you with all your administrative procedures:

  • opening an Australian bank account ,
  • obtaining the Tax File Number (TFN) ,
  • Medicare enrollment ,
  • and practical advice to get your stay off to a good start.

You then spend your first nights in a youth hostel , the ideal opportunity to meet other participants and discover the city through several friendly activities (kayaking, climbing, local visits).

The following Monday, you'll join a partner ranch school located in the heart of Queensland. For a full week , Australian instructors will introduce you to ranch life and work:

  • driving quad bikes and agricultural vehicles,
  • working with cattle and horses,
  • maintenance of fences and infrastructure,
  • security in rural areas,
  • animal and crop management techniques.

This hands-on training, with accommodation and meals included, allows you to quickly acquire the necessary skills to work independently. At the end of the week, your skills are assessed to place you on a ranch that matches your profile .

Ranch work in Australia
Training Week 2 – Ranch Pack

A paid and guaranteed job after training

Once your training is complete, you are immediately placed on a partner ranch selected based on your skills, preferences, and English level. This placement is guaranteed for every participant who successfully completes the week of training, eliminating the stress of finding a job upon arrival.

The available positions vary depending on your profile: working with livestock, assisting on dairy farms, managing horses, maintenance, small farm jobs, or helping with the daily logistics of the farms. Some jobs also include domestic or catering duties on the ranch.

In addition, the majority of jobs offered in this program count towards the 88 days of specific work required to apply for a 2nd or 3rd Working Holiday Visa in Australia , a real advantage for those who wish to extend their adventure.

The assistance does not stop once your placement is made: you benefit from continuous on-site monitoring , a 24/7 emergency hotline, and personalized support to organize your travel or change ranches if you wish to discover other regions.

Want to try the adventure? Discover all the practical details, registration requirements, and participant testimonials on the dedicated page: Learn more about the Ranch Pack+

Hospitality and Catering Package+: Secure a guaranteed job in the hospitality and catering industry

A guaranteed job in the Australian hospitality industry

Photo by Nico Smit on Unsplash

Do you dream of working in a hotel, a seaside café, or a trendy restaurant in Sydney? With our Hospitality & Catering Package+ , you can travel with complete peace of mind . A job awaits you as soon as you arrive in Australia !

From the moment you register, our team takes care of everything: administrative procedures, visa, flights, and departure preparation. Once you arrive in Brisbane , you are welcomed, accommodated during the first few days of orientation , and guided step-by-step through your formalities (opening a bank account, obtaining a tax number, registering for Medicare, etc.).

You will then complete a week of practical training , essential for familiarizing yourself with the industry's standards and mandatory certifications (hygiene, service, safety, etc.). Upon completion of this training, you will be guaranteed your first job for a minimum of three months , paying approximately AUD 30 per hour .

The positions offered cover all hospitality professions:

  • dining room service, bar or reception;
  • kitchen or pastry helper;
  • barista or barman;
  • employment in a resort, hostel or seaside resort .

Our partner employers are selected for their professionalism and support. You will join multicultural and dynamic teams, ideal for improving your English while developing your professional skills .

The program's progress step by step

The Hospitality & Catering Package+ is designed to simplify your settling-in and job search in Australia as much as possible. Everything is organized before your departure so you can focus on what matters most: living your experience and enjoying your Working Holiday Visa .

1. Preparation before departure

From the moment you register, our team will guide you through the essential steps: visa application, health insurance, flight booking, and compiling your application (CV in English, photo, diplomas, and introductory video). You will also receive access to a personal online space containing all the practical information about your upcoming stay.

2. Arrival in Brisbane

Upon your arrival (ideally on a Thursday morning), a member of the local team will meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation. The first few days are dedicated to getting settled in . This includes exploring the city, participating in group activities (kayaking, climbing, guided tours), and, most importantly, handling administrative tasks . These include opening a bank account, obtaining an Australian Taxation Number (TFN), registering for Medicare, and receiving practical advice for living in Australia.

3. Training and certifications

The following week is dedicated to comprehensive training , enabling you to obtain the mandatory certifications required to work in hospitality in Australia. This training covers topics such as:

  • hygiene and food safety standards;
  • customer service and reception techniques;
  • safe handling of alcoholic beverages (RSA);
  • the basics of teamwork in an English-speaking environment.

This period is also an opportunity to strengthen your professional English before your first job.

4. Guaranteed placement and support

Once your training is validated, you are immediately placed in a partner establishment : hotel, bar, café, restaurant, or resort. Your employment contract lasts a minimum of three months , with the possibility of extension or changing employers depending on your ambitions. You benefit from continuous support from the on-site team, available 24/7 to answer your questions or intervene in case of any problems.

Thanks to this program, you can start your professional life in Australia in the best conditions, without the stress of having to look for a job upon arrival.

Discover all the program details, registration requirements, and participant testimonials on the dedicated page: Learn more about the Hospitality & Catering Package+

Conclusion: Working in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa, balancing safety and adventure

Finding a job in Australia during a Working Holiday Visa is a unique experience. It's an opportunity to learn, travel, and immerse yourself in a lifestyle that's both relaxed and professional. But to avoid unexpected problems and save time, it's often wiser to get support . The programs offered by VisaVacancesTravail guarantee a secure framework, verified employment, and personalized support at every step.

Whether you're looking for a family immersion experience with the Half Pair Pack+ , an Outback adventure with the Ranch Pack+ , or the chance to launch an international hospitality career with the Hotel & Restaurant Pack+ , each package offers a complete and authentic Australian experience. Contact us!

Main photo: Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Author

  • "After a childhood spent between mountain getaways and European explorations, it was a life-changing trip to India at 16 that sparked my love of travel. My studies in literature and geography led me to Cambodia for a field research project on marginalized children. I then completed a year of civic service in Montreal, punctuated by trips to Canada and the United States. Next, I headed to Australia for another Working Holiday Visa adventure. Brisbane, Byron Bay, Tasmania… ten months crisscrossing this country of a thousand contrasts. Today, I continue to explore the world on a Working Holiday Visa in Japan. I've settled in Tokyo, the city that never sleeps, the immense urban anthill where, nevertheless, one feels a profound serenity. Through my stories, I share these experiences with particular expertise on Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea."

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