Things You Need To Know

Working Holiday Visa Tax Requirements
Superannuation
Setting up an Australian Bank Account
Health Insurance and Medicare
Finding a Job in Australia
Job Hunting Links

Working Holiday Visa Tax Requirements

If you intend to work, you must obtain a Tax File Number (TFN). If you start your working holiday before getting your TFN, you have 28 days to provide it to your employer. You can apply for this in person at the Australian Tax Office, or online at the Tax Office's website.

When your working holiday visa finishes or you stop work, you will need to complete a compulsory tax return. You may be eligible for a tax refund. Ask your employer for a payment summary, showing your total income and the amount of tax withheld. Taxback.com can assist you with your tax return.

Superannuation

Temporary residents can access their retirement savings (superannuation) upon permanent departure from Australia. For more information, visit the Australian Taxation Office's website. 

Setting up an Australian Bank Account

Most employers won't pay into an overseas bank account, so you will need to set up an Australian Bank account. If you can, do this before you leave home, transfer some funds into it and then collect your bank card when you arrive. The Work and Travel Company and Work n Holiday are just two organisations that can help you with this. 

Health Insurance and Medicare

Medical treatment in Australia can be very expensive and it is advisable to have both travel and health insurance.

It is strongly advised that you take out private health insurance to cover yourself in Australia.

iSelect can help you choose the best health insurance for your needs.

If you're an international visitor to Australia, you can find travel insurance policies to suit you here.

The Australian Government has signed Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA) with the governments of the United Kingdom, Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands, Finland, Norway, Malta, Italy, Republic of Ireland and New Zealand which entitles you to limited subsidised health services for immediately ‘medically necessary’ treatment while visiting Australia. For more information visit Medicare Australia's website.

Finding A Job in Australia

Getting work in Australia will be much easier if you follow these tips:

  • Dress appropriately and approach prospective employers in a professional manner. For example, to work in hospitality, it is expected that you will have a basic ‘hospitality uniform’ of black shoes, black trousers and a white shirt. 
  • Make sure you can leave employers with your contact details. A mobile phone and email address are the best options. Make sure your phone is switched on!
  • Have copies of your resume printed or make some calling cards with your name and contact details and leave with everyone you speak to.
  • Get a copy of your resume on USB or the web so you can email it to employers.
  • The Harvest Trail website provides jobseekers with important information about harvest work opportunities, working conditions, transport and accommodation options in the key harvest areas around Australia. For the latest up-to-date information, visit the Harvest Trail website or call the National Harvest Labour Information Service on 1800 062 332.
  • Check hostel noticeboards and local newspapers for employment opportunities.
  • Provide proof of all qualifications, especially for skilled jobs such as nursing.
  • Be aware that for some professions, registration or licensing may be required (e.g. health professions, construction work, responsible service of alcohol). Some licensing requirements are state or territory-specific.
  • You may need to undergo health and/or character checks (e.g. working with children).
  • Be honest and reliable – let employers know how long you are available and give them notice when you plan to leave. Don’t promise to stay for a set period of time then leave after a short period. By doing so, you will be doing future backpackers and working holiday makers a disservice.
  • You will need a permanent Australian mailing address to apply for your tax file number, Medicare card and Australian bank account. There are several organisations that can help you get established including the Work and Travel Company and Work n Holiday.
  • If you have any questions or concerns about your pay or working conditions, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman or the Department of Education, Training and Workplace Relations.
  • Remember, be flexible. You are a Working Holiday Maker, and there are hundreds of you all looking for the same job at the same time! Be creative, sell yourself and be persistent.

Job Hunting Links

Backpacker Job Search Websites

General Australian Job Search Websites

Backpacker Employment Agencies

General Employment Agencies

Nursing/ Healthcare Employment Agencies

Engineering/ Construction/ Labouring Employment Agency