Australia is known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife. For many travelers, the allure of exploring everything this vast country has to offer extends beyond a single year. Fortunately, the Australian government offers a pathway for working holiday makers to extend their visas through employment in certain industries, including hospitality.

The Working Holiday Visa

The Working Holiday Visa (WHV) is designed for young travelers, typically aged between 18 and 30 (35 for some countries), allowing them to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. This visa is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to experience life down under, gain work experience, and immerse themselves in Australian culture.

Extending Your Stay: The Second Year Visa

To extend your stay in Australia for a second year, you need to meet specific requirements. For a Subclass 417 visa holder, one of the key conditions is completing three months (or 88 days) of specified work in regional Australia during your first year. Since June 22, 2021, hospitality work in Northern Australia or remote and very remote Australia, within certain postcodes, has been included as eligible specified work for the second year visa application.

Eligible Postcodes for Hospitality Work

To qualify, the hospitality work must be carried out in the following postcodes:

• 4406
• 4416
• 4498
• 7215

These areas cover parts of Northern Australia, as well as remote and very remote regions, which are recognised for their need for workers in various industries, including tourism and hospitality.

Types of Hospitality Work

Eligible specified work in tourism and hospitality includes a wide range of occupations within the following services:

Accommodation:

• Hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and backpacker hostels
• Caravan parks and camping grounds
• Commercial housekeeping services
• Boarding houses, guesthouses, and reception centers

Food and Beverage:

• Cafes and restaurants
• Takeaway food services/businesses
• Catering services
• Pubs, taverns, and bars
• Hospitality clubs

Services Provided Directly to Tourists:

• Tourist guides and operators
• Outdoor adventure or activity instructors
• Tourist transport service workers
• Gallery or museum workers, curators, or guides
• Travel agency and tourist information workers
• Event and entertainment venue workers

Examples of Eligible Specified Work:

• Chef in a restaurant
• Guest service agent in a hotel
• Dive instructor
• Tour bus driver

Ineligible Work Examples:

• Driving a school bus
• Working as a sales assistant in a retail shop

The Third Year Visa: Continuing the Adventure

If two years aren’t enough, there’s a possibility to apply for a third year on the WHV. To qualify for the third year visa, you must complete six months of specified work in regional Australia during your second year. Again, hospitality work in designated areas of Northern Australia and remote regions counts toward this requirement.

Finding Hospitality Work

Securing a job in the hospitality industry can be competitive, but WorkinHospo is here to help you. Start your search with us. 

Tips for Success

• Be Flexible: Being open to different types of roles and locations increases your chances of finding work.
• Prepare Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills. Australian employers often appreciate a concise and straightforward CV.
• Understand Your Rights: Familiarise yourself with your rights as a worker in Australia to ensure you’re treated fairly and paid correctly.

Balancing Work and Travel

While working in hospitality, you’ll still have plenty of time to explore Australia. With flexible work arrangements common in the industry, you can plan your shifts around your travel adventures. Whether it’s snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in the Blue Mountains, or experiencing the outback, you’ll have opportunities to make unforgettable memories.

Conclusion

Extending your stay in Australia through hospitality work is not just a means to an end but a chance to deeply engage with the culture and lifestyle of this incredible country. The skills, experiences, and connections you gain will be invaluable, enhancing your personal and professional growth. So, if you’re dreaming of more time in the Land Down Under, consider hospitality work as your gateway to a second and third year of Australian adventures.

For more information visit the Home Affairs website: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/specified-work-conditions/specified-work-417

The information in the blog is accurate as of 17/07/2024, there is potential for specifications to change so always check the information on the Home Affairs website.