The Complete Guide to Working Holidays in Australia – From Preparation to Accommodation Booking
Working Holiday in Australia is a special opportunity for many young people. It is a three-in-one experience where you can improve your English skills, meet people from different countries, and earn money. However, when it comes to preparing, many people are at a loss as to where to start. In this article, we will provide you with the information you need to know when planning your working holiday in Australia, as well as tips for booking accommodation.
Apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa
The Australian Working Holiday Visa is available to those aged between 18 and 30 (Korean time), and allows you to stay in Australia for up to one year while working and traveling.
Visa applications can be submitted online on the official website of the Australian Immigration Department, and the current visa fee is approximately AUD 635.
Go to apply for visa
'Right click on the mouse and change it to Korean, read it carefully, and then apply.'
Essential requirements for applying for an Australian Working Holiday Visa
The first thing that those preparing for an Australian working holiday should check is Visa Application Eligibility and RequirementsIt is necessary to check each and every one carefully, because if the conditions are not met properly, the visa issuance may be denied. Below are the basic essential requirements.
1. Valid passport
The first thing you need to prepare is Make sure your passport is valid If the remaining validity period of your passport is short at the time of visa application, you may experience inconvenience when entering Australia later or renewing your passport during your stay. Passport with at least 6 months remainingIt is recommended that you prepare your passport. If your passport is about to expire, we recommend that you apply for a new one in advance.
(Go directly to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs passport homepage, Go to Government24 Passport)
2. Proof of minimum funds for initial stay (approximately AUD 5,000)
The Australian government requires Working Holiday participants to have approximately AUD 5,000 (AUD) in their pockets to cover initial living expenses during their stay. This is to cover initial costs such as accommodation, food, and transport. Bank balance certificate It must be supported by evidence in the form of a certificate, etc. Some examiners Funds including airfareThey also ask for it, Please also prepare your one-way or round-trip flight reservation details.It is safer if you do so.
3. A certain level of English proficiency
The Australian Working Holiday Visa does not require an official English test score such as IELTS, but Basic English skills required for everyday communicationEspecially when looking for a job or a home, because it involves phone calls, interviews, and email communications.
However, these days, technology has advanced so much that you can cover English conversations to some extent with a real-time translation app if you have a smartphone. In fact, many working holidaymakers are actively using apps such as Google Translate, Papago, and DeepL. Of course, these are only auxiliary tools, so it is a good idea to practice simple expressions or everyday conversations in advance.
Things to prepare after arriving in Australia
Upon arrival in Australia, it is advisable to quickly complete the following essential administrative procedures:
1. Open a bank account
To legally work and receive a salary in Australia, you will need a bank account. Some of the most popular banks are:
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Westpac, NAB (National Australia Bank), Commonwealth Bank, ANZ These are the four major banks.
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Most banks Apply for account opening online in advanceThis is possible, after arriving in Australia, visit a nearby branch with your passport. Complete identity verificationOnce you do this, your account will be officially activated.
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Australian banks do not have physical 'account books' like in Korea. Instead, all transactions are made using **account numbers (BSB + Account Number)**.
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Check cards are usually mailed to your home address within a few days of opening. If you need to hurry, Temporary card at branchThere are also banks that accept .
Tip: You may be asked to verify your 100-point ID, so it's a good idea to bring your passport along with you, along with an international driver's license, student ID, or a printed copy of your visa.
2. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
A TFN (Tax File Number) is essential to work in Australia. Personal Tax Numberno see.
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Even those with a working holiday visa You can't work without a TFN, even if you receive a salary, taxes are deducted at a **higher rate (for non-residents)**.
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ATO (Australian Taxation Office) websiteYou can apply for free at , and after applying, Your TFN will arrive in the mail within 2-4 weeksdo.
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Because address registration is required, Accommodation Address Or you can use your friend's address temporarily.
Tip: You can't start working until you apply for a TFN, so it's best to apply as soon as possible after you arrive.
3. Opening a mobile phone account
**Prepaid SIM** is the norm in Australia. The major carriers are:
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Telstra: Best nationwide coverage. Recommended when you need stable communication even in local and rural areas.
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Optus: Good balance of coverage and price. Suitable for city residents.
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Vodafone: Coverage is good in major cities, but weak in rural areas. Rates are relatively cheap.
Most carriers Open immediately at the store with just your passport It is possible, and you can also purchase SIM cards at large supermarkets (Woolworths, Coles) or convenience stores.
There are various rate plans depending on data usage. A rate plan that suits your usage habitsIt is important to choose.
Tip: There are also cheaper sub-brands like ALDI Mobile or Amaysim!
4. Register your transportation card
In Australia, each city has a different transport system. Regional transportation cardsYou have to use .
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Sydney: Opal Card
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Melbourne: Myki Card
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Brisbane: Go Card
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Perth: SmartRider
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Adelaide: MetroCard
These cards can be used on various means of transportation, including trains, buses, and trams, and can be issued at station offices, convenience stores, and online.
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Discount benefits: Some cards Register for Student/Youth DiscountIf this is possible, please be sure to register if you meet the requirements!
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Online registration and rechargeYou can also use the balance check function or balance protection function in case of loss.
Tip: Opal cards offer discounts or even free fares depending on how often you use them, so the more often you use them the more benefits you get..
Finding a job during a working holiday
In the beginning, many people look for jobs on farms, in cafes, restaurants, cleaning, factories, etc. to make a living. Representative job search sites include
Finding Accommodation in Australia – Recommended Booking Sites
It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance when you first arrive. It is common to look into long-term share houses while staying in short-term accommodation. The following are recommended accommodation reservation sites.
1. Hostelworld
The best platform to find cheap and clean hostels across Australia. It has various filter functions and real guest reviews, so it is trustworthy. It also has a chat function between guests who are already staying or planning to stay at the hotel, so it is a good place to make new connections.
Explore Hostelworld
2. Booking.com
There is a wide range of accommodation options, and you can easily find hostels and guesthouses at relatively low prices. As you upgrade your membership level, you will also receive additional discounts and benefits such as free breakfast.
Go to Booking.com
3. Agoda
This is a platform that often offers weekly specials and discounts, especially in Southeast Asia and Australia. Sometimes, you can book accommodation at a cheaper price than Booking.
Browse Agoda
4. Couchsurfing
This is a platform where you can stay in a local person's home for free, and it is recommended for those who want to experience real local Australian culture. You can also socialize with people around you through the 'Hangout' function through the app.
Explore Couchsurfing
Working Holiday in Australia is not just about making money, but it is also an opportunity to grow yourself and see the world in a broader way. Reduce your worries and start an exciting working holiday with thorough preparation and safe accommodation reservations!
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