Is the working holiday visa still a good option?
Hey everyone! I’m from Italy (not indigenous, but I was born and raised here; my family’s roots are elsewhere, so while I’m white-passing, my name gives a different impression). I’ve always had a fascination with Australia—so much so that I even wrote my middle school thesis about it, which shows how keen I am to experience it firsthand! However, I’ve been hearing mixed reports lately. There seems to be some negativity towards immigrants, and the job market doesn’t sound too promising right now.
That being said, I’m not looking to settle; I’m primarily interested in the working holiday visa. My plan is to bring some savings along, earn some money while exploring the country, and if I can save a bit more along the way, that would be a bonus! I’m considering a stay of anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the visa duration.
As a 25-year-old who speaks fluent English, with Italian as my first language, and some knowledge of Spanish and Arabic, what do you think my chances are? I haven’t graduated yet, so I’m not pursuing highly skilled positions. While I work in IT, I’m not sure I can find anything at a junior level since I won’t be there long-term and employers may be hesitant. I’ve also been considering opportunities in agriculture, or jobs in tourism and hospitality, like working at a hotel. What are your thoughts?
Hi there!
It sounds like you have a real passion for experiencing Australia, which is a great starting point! A working holiday visa can definitely still be worth it, especially considering your plans to travel and experience life down under. While it’s true that the job market can be competitive and some locals may have mixed feelings about immigration, many sectors, especially agriculture, hospitality, and tourism, often welcome backpackers and short-term workers.
Your language skills can be a huge asset—being multilingual can set you apart when applying for jobs in hospitality or customer service roles. Plus, a willingness to work hard and adapt to new environments can go a long way in securing a job.
As for your background in IT, even if you’re seeking junior roles, there are sometimes opportunities available that value diverse experiences over formal qualifications, especially in startups or smaller companies. However, agriculture and hospitality might indeed be more accessible and could provide a consistent flow of work while allowing you to explore different parts of the country.
It’s wise to bring some savings to support yourself while you search for work, but many travelers find jobs quite quickly once they arrive. Just be sure to check out online resources and local groups for job postings within the sectors you’re interested in.
Overall, if you approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace new experiences, a working holiday can be a fantastic way to see Australia while also gaining valuable life experiences. Good luck, and enjoy your adventure!