Landing in Australia

Getting to Australia/Deciding on Where to Go

Deciding on moving to another country is a big decision and one that you won’t want to make lightly. Reflecting back on my time in Aus, I feel as though I would do things differently if only I’d known. 

Planning a working holiday in Australia on the 417 visa is an exciting adventure! With endless opportunities to explore, work, and experience local life, the biggest challenge is choosing where to start. This guide will help you plan your journey, from the essentials of flying to Australia to picking the best destinations based on your interests and goals.

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Preparing for Your Flight to Australia

Flights and Timing:

Since Australia is far from many parts of the world, finding an affordable and convenient flight is essential. Look for options that include flexible return dates, as some working holidaymakers extend their stay. While the high season (December to February) may mean higher prices, the weather is excellent for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. Conversely, low seasons (May to August) often come with cheaper flights and fewer tourists.

Definitely use websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights to track the flights you’re looking at booking so you can get the best deal. I personally don’t like to use third party websites for booking flights as I feel you get better customer service if you book directly with the airline, in case anything were to go wrong. Make sure you have your travel insurance ready for this reason.  

Stopovers: 

Australia is a long-haul flight for most travellers, so  you may want to consider a stopover. Popular layover spots like Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai allow you to break up the journey and explore a new city for a day or two. Myself and Ben actually spent a few months travelling in SEA as it was low season in most places and relatively cheap. It’s really dependent on you and what you want to do. 

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Choosing Your Starting Point in Australia

Australia’s diverse geography means each region offers a unique experience, so your choice will depend on your interests and the type of work you’re seeking. I will get into the work section in the next article. I went to Brisbane as we had friends there that we could stay with and then ended up staying for the year however if I could do it again, I would have visited and shopped around to see where I liked best.

Sydney

Best for: First-time visitors, beach lovers, and social butterflies.  

As Australia’s largest city, Sydney is a favourite for working holiday makers. Iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach make it a great starting point. Sydney offers a range of job opportunities in hospitality, tourism, and retail, though living costs can be high. The vibrant social scene and easy access to other regions make it ideal for those who want to connect with travellers and locals alike.

Melbourne

Best for: Art and coffee enthusiasts, creative professionals, and those seeking a cooler climate.  

Known for its artsy vibe, Melbourne is a cultural hub with a thriving coffee and music scene. The city’s laneways are packed with cafes, street art, and small galleries, making it an inspiring spot for creatives. Melbourne’s job market also caters well to working holidaymakers, especially in hospitality, retail, and creative industries. Winters here are colder than in other parts of Australia, many friends of ours said it was like being back home (in Ireland). 

Brisbane

Best for: Warm weather lovers and those looking for more affordable urban living.  

Brisbane offers a relaxed city vibe with a subtropical climate and is close to natural wonders like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Brisbane tends to be more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, making it an appealing choice for those watching their budget. Job opportunities are plentiful in hospitality, tourism, and construction.

Cairns and Tropical North Queensland

Best for: Nature enthusiasts and those wanting to experience Australia’s tropical climate.  

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, offering stunning natural scenery. It’s ideal if you’re interested in jobs related to tourism, including scuba diving, eco-tourism, and hospitality. Cairns has a small-town feel but is always bustling with travellers, creating a friendly, international vibe.

Perth

Best for: Beach and nature lovers, and those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.  

Located on the west coast, Perth is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny climate, and friendly locals. The cost of living here is typically lower than in eastern cities, and job opportunities are available in hospitality, mining, and agriculture. Perth’s relative remoteness from other Australian cities means fewer tourists, but it also offers a quieter, more laid-back experience.

Adelaide

Best for: Food and wine enthusiasts and those looking for a quieter city experience.  

Not typically on the WHV backpacker’s radar but known for its wine regions and culinary scene, Adelaide is smaller and less crowded than the major cities, which appeals to those wanting a more relaxed start. Jobs are often available in hospitality, especially during the wine harvest season. Adelaide is a short drive from beautiful beaches and rolling vineyards, perfect for nature lovers.

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Final Thoughts

A working holiday in Australia is an unforgettable experience, blending work with adventure in a new and vibrant culture. Whether you’re drawn to city life, beaches, or the countryside, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. Start with an open mind, be willing to explore, and prepare for a journey that will leave you with memories and friendships for a lifetime. Safe travels!