Many young people who return from a working holiday overseas describe it as a life changing experience. Working overseas can be a great way to:
- Travel
- Meet new people
- Discover new things
- Make money
- Gain work experience
The experience of self-reliance you gain will be useful for many years to come.
Australian employers are often impressed when they see overseas work experience on resumes. It demonstrates you have initiative, drive and can adapt to different circumstances.
Types of jobs available to Australians overseas
It's not hard to get a job overseas. Some common choices for overseas work include:
- Pubs in the UK
- Summer camps or ski fields in the USA and Canada
- Cafes and restaurants
- Office temping
- Teaching English in Asia, South America or Europe
Working holiday visas
Australia has agreements with 23 countries (new window) where Australians under 30 (and in some cases, under 27) can usually get a working holiday visa.
Prepare before you travel
Some travellers prefer to just book a ticket and work out the details when they get there. Others like to plan and book ahead.
Pay and working conditions overseas can be quite different from Australia. Find out:
- Positions available - what sort of jobs accept travellers and what do they pay?
- Living costs - how much you will need to live on?
- Job environment - what kind of hours and conditions should you expect?
- Living arrangements - what accommodation and amenities are available near the workplace?
- Language - do you know the language, or can you learn it?
- Culture and customs - are there laws and customs affecting behaviour, dress, drinking, etc?
- Safety issues - is the location and workplace generally safe for foreigners?
- When things go wrong - do you know who to contact and where to seek help?
There are agencies, companies and other organisations that can help you find a job and prepare for your trip. Links to some of them are provided below:
Links to overseas work sites
Smartraveller - Tips For Working Overseas
This Australian Federal Government site provides tips for working overseas.
Any Work Anywhere
This site lists international work opportunities and provides information for organising your journey.
International Exchange Programs
IEP help young Australians with overseas working holidays, from visas to housing and finding a job.
Overseas Working Holidays
This site lists international work opportunities and provides information for organising your journey.
YHA - Working Holidays
The Youth Hostel Association website offers tips for working overseas.
TEFL - Teaching English Overseas
This site lists positions and provides information and guidance for people wanting to teach English overseas.
International Volunteers for Peace
Find out about volunteering in work camps overseas.
