Jobs You Can Get with a Work and Holiday Visa in Australia (Visa Subclass 462)
Jobs You Can Get with a Work and Holiday Visa in Australia : Step by step guide
Are you dreaming of traveling across Australia while earning money on the side? With the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462), you can do just that. This visa is perfect for young adventurers looking to explore Australia without burning through their savings.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the types of jobs available, who’s eligible, and how to make the most of your time Down Under.
What Is a Work and Holiday Visa?
The Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 35, depending on your country) to live, work, and travel throughout Australia for up to 12 months.
Unlike the Subclass 417 visa (Working Holiday), this one applies to a specific list of countries and requires certain education and English language qualifications.
It’s a great option for short-term job seekers who want to earn while they explore.
Top Job Options for Visa Holders
Whether you’re in the city or the countryside, there’s a wide variety of jobs open to Work and Holiday visa holders.
1. Food & Beverage Service
Jobs: Café staff, waiters, bartenders, dishwashers
Common Areas: Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast
Pay Rate: Around AUD \$23–30 per hour
Perk: Easy to find in tourist-heavy zones
2. Seasonal Farm Work
Jobs: Fruit harvesting, packing, general farm labor
Common Areas: Rural Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria
Pay Rate: AUD \$20–28 per hour or piece rate
Bonus: Eligible farm work can qualify you for visa extension
3. Sales & Retail Jobs
Jobs: Retail assistant, cashier, customer service
Common Areas: Major shopping districts in cities
Pay Rate: AUD \$22–27 per hour
4. Labour and Trade Support
Jobs: Site clean-up, warehouse help, trade assistance
Common Areas: Growing cities and development sites
Pay Rate: AUD \$25–35 per hour
Tip: A **White Card** is usually needed for construction work
5. Live-In Au Pair or Babysitting
Jobs: Nanny, au pair
Pay Rate: Free lodging, meals, and pocket money
Ideal For: Those who enjoy working with children in a family setting
Where to Find Work and Holiday Jobs in Australia
You don’t need to wait till you arrive to look for a job. Here are some trusted ways to start your search:
Online Job Platforms: [Seek](https://www.seek.com.au), [Gumtree Jobs](https://www.gumtree.com.au/jobs), and [Indeed Australia](https://au.indeed.com)
Backpacker Sites: [Backpacker Job Board](https://www.backpackerjobboard.com.au) and [Harvest Trail](https://jobsearch.gov.au/harvest)
Social Media: Join Facebook groups for travelers and expats
Hostels and Local Ads: Many hostels have bulletin boards with job ads
Tip: Adjust your CV to match Australian formatting—clear, concise, and relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Basic Requirements for Subclass 462 Visa
To qualify for a Work and Holiday visa, you must meet the following:
Age between 18 and 30 (or 35 for a few select countries)
Hold a valid passport from an eligible country
Show proof of education and English proficiency
Provide evidence of at least AUD \$5,000** in funds
Pass character and health checks
Have health insurance for the duration of your stay
Extending Your Stay in Australia
Yes, it’s possible to apply for a second or even third Work and Holiday visa, provided you complete certain types of regional or specified work during your stay.
Second Visa: Requires at least 88 days of qualifying work
Third Visa3rd visa: Requires 6 months of qualifying work
Examples of eligible jobs include farm labor, hospitality in remote areas, and tourism-related roles in regional zones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
✅ Can I change employers during my visa stay?
Absolutely. You’re allowed to work for multiple employers, but you can’t stay with one for longer than 6 months.
✅ What’s the minimum wage in Australia?
The national minimum wage is around AUD \$23.23/hour**, but many jobs, especially in hospitality or labor, offer more.
✅ Is it mandatory to have health insurance?
Yes, you must have **adequate health coverage** throughout your stay. Some visa applicants must provide proof of this at application time.
✅ Can I take a short course or study while on this visa?
Yes, you’re allowed to **study for up to 4 months during your stay.
✅ What happens when the visa expires?
You’ll need to leave Australia unless you’re eligible for an extension or another type of visa.
Final Thoughts
The Work and Holiday visa is your golden ticket to experience Australia beyond a typical tourist. With the chance to earn money, meet new people, and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the country, this visa offers both freedom and adventure.
Plan your job hunt early, make sure your documents are in order, and get ready for an unforgettable Aussie journey!
