You’ll meet more of the locals, have fun with fellow travelers, and get to see parts of Australia that you might not normally visit. Need some inspiration, the possibilities are endless.

BE A DIVE INSTRUCTOR Diving is one of those rare occupations in which you can be paid to do the thing you love in some of the most beautiful places in the world. It's a lifestyle most people only get to dream about - Imagine being paid as a Divemaster or Dive Instructor, training people to dive in clear tropical waters, introducing them to the wonders of the coral reef.

BE A BARTENDER Are you traveling to meet new people and experience new cultures? There is no better way to meet and interact with the locals than tending bar at the corner pub. Drinking is part of the Australian lifestyle, but Aussies take their alcohol seriously. There are various courses available for bartending and responsible alcohol service.

BE A RANCHHAND The size and remoteness of Australian cattle stations define the life style. Often the next human settlement is a day's drive away. Ranch hands are needed to keep the cattle stations running day to day. Expect evenings at the fire and sleeping in swags on the ground. Learn to saddle and ride a horse, work the yard, muster cattle, shear sheep and gain stockman skills.

What is the purpose of the Working Holiday visa?

The Working Holiday visa program provides opportunities for young people for social and cultural exchange and promotes mutual understanding between Australia and other nations.

What is the duration of the visa and can it be renewed?

The Working Holiday visa allows a stay of up to 12 months in Australia.

What are the eligibility requirements for the visa?

Canadian citizens wishing to come to Australia must:
• be aged 18 to 30 inclusive
• be outside of Australia when they apply for and are granted the visa
• have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare as well as sufficient funds for the first part of their stay, and
• have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare as well as sufficient funds for the first part of their stay, and
• meet health and character requirements.

Can visa holders work?

Canadian citizens holding a Working Holiday visa in Australia can work for each employer for up to six months and are able to work for the entire 12 months of the visa. There are no restrictions on the type of work that may be undertaken.

Can visa holders study?

Canadian citizens holding a Working Holiday visa in Australia can study for up to four months. There is no restriction on the type of study. There are a wide range of programs offered by Australia's outstanding educational institutions for you to choose from.

Click here for more information on studying in Australia.

Where do I apply for this visa?

Canadian citizens can either apply for the visa over the internet or by completing an application form and lodging it with the nearest Australian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate.

Where can I find further information on the program?

Canadian citizens can find further information about travelling to Australia at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website. See http://www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/417/

Swap Abroad - http://www.swap.ca/out_eng/destinations/australia.aspx

Goway - http://www.goway.com/downunder/australia/work_hols/

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE WORKING HOLIDAY VISA FACT SHEET

Fun after work, or before!

Whether you’re able to line up a job to start as soon as you get to Australia or build in some time to relax and enjoy some of Australia, you have lots of choice. We’ve asked a few of our mates to put together some ideas for relaxing and making some great new friends either before you need to get some more dollars together or after.

Contiki - http://contiki.com/trip_finder/australia

Connections - http://www.connections.travel/content.asp?Document_ID=52569

Youth Hostels of Australia - http://www.yha.com.au