Work in Australia, Darwin : FAQs!

Working in Australia in Darwin: FAQs

What are the formalities for working in Australia?

Firstly, you need to have a valid Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa for Australia. The application is done online for individuals aged 18 to 35.

The procedure is quite simple. First, you need to gather color copies of certain documents, including a birth certificate, a valid passport, and a bank statement showing sufficient funds (usually AUD 5,000).

Next, you need to complete your application by providing accurate information and attaching all the required documents. If you are applying for a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), you can submit your application online through this link.

Once you have submitted your application, the Australian government will inform you if they require additional information or if you need to undergo police or health checks.

To work in Australia, you also need to have a bank account. We recommend the National Australia Bank, where we can assist you in opening an account. You will also need a Tax File Number upon arrival. The local teams will take care of these formalities upon your arrival.

More information on this link.

What are the seasonal jobs available in Darwin?

• Hospitality/restaurant work in the numerous bars, restaurants, and hotels
• Agricultural work on surrounding farms and ranches
• Fruit picking Construction/sites
• Services and shops
• Babysitting

Discover our Working Holiday program in Darwin.

How long can I work in Australia?

Seasonal jobs in Australia can range from a few weeks to several months (maximum 6 months with the same employer). The employment assistance you will receive in Darwin is not limited to the Northern Territory.

We have a partnership with the Nomads group, and you will have access to their seasonal job site throughout Australia to help you find employment at your next destination.

How long is my Work and Holiday Visa valid for Australia?

The Work and Holiday Visa for Australia is valid for 1 year from the date of arrival in the country. It can be extended for an additional year if at least 88 days of specified work have been completed in regional areas.

And the good news is that all postcodes in the Northern Territory count towards extending your Work and Holiday Visa for an additional year! [link]

Which airlines serve Darwin?

Qantas Emirates Singapore Airlines

More information on this link.

How do I get to my accommodation in Darwin?

Darwin International Airport is small, and you'll be in your accommodation in no time! Youth Shack is located 7 km (15 minutes) from the international arrivals terminal at Darwin Airport.

Taxis and shuttle buses are easily accessible from the terminal. Uber costs around $15 to $25 AUD (you'll need to download the Uber app and book a car once you arrive at the airport).

You can also go to the taxi rank outside the terminal. No reservation is necessary; just go directly to the designated taxi rank after passing through customs. The cost of a taxi is around $20 to $30 AUD.

Where will I stay in Darwin?

Participants arriving in Darwin stay at Youth Shack Darwin, located at 69 Mitchell St, Darwin. Youth Shack is ideal for exploring Darwin's lively neighborhood.

You can walk to popular attractions such as the Waterfront Precinct and the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.

You will share a 4 or 6-bed dormitory with other backpackers, a great way to make new friends. All shared rooms are equipped with sheets, individual lamps, free Wi-Fi, lockers, and air conditioning. You will also have access to the communal kitchen and game room, as well as the barbecue, movies, and social space.

The reception is open 24/7 to answer all your questions. So even if your flight arrives late, you can still check-in.

Discover our Working Holiday Program in Darwin!

And after the first week, how do I find accommodation when working in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa?

Some hotels and resorts in more remote areas offer short or long-term accommodation to their staff. In case you need to find accommodation on your own, the local teams will provide you with information and practical websites to find shared rentals or private rentals in Australia.

In general, you should expect to pay one month of security deposit, and the rent ranges from $130 to $200 per week for a room in a shared accommodation. If staff accommodation is available at the workplace, you will usually share a room with 1 or 2 other people, and the bathroom and kitchen with 5-6 people, but the cost is lower.

Homestay or hostel accommodation may be available in some places. Accommodation information will be provided upon your arrival.

More information and tips can be found on this link.

Is food included?

If you are staying in a homestay, two meals a day are included, but meals from the host company are not. Some hotels have staff cafeterias where you can get discounted meals when you are on duty, but this is not guaranteed. Each individual is responsible for grocery shopping and preparing meals in their own accommodation.

Plan a budget of around $100 per week for food. Some people spend less, others spend more.

How much money will I earn?

All participants in the Australian Working Holiday Visa program are paid at the prevailing Australian wage rates. This wage may vary depending on the location and time of year.

The number of hours per week is not guaranteed and is based on the company's performance and activity.

Please note that tipping is not expected in Australia.

You can check this link to find out the current wage rates.

What taxes do I have to pay in the Australian Working Holiday Visa program?

Income tax in Australia is withheld at the required rate - proportionate to income. If you have paid too much tax (or not enough!), you will need to fill out an income tax return, and the Australian Tax Office will make adjustments accordingly.

The fiscal year in Australia ends on June 30 of each year.

All information about taxes in Australia is available on official websites, through this link or this one.

Will my phone work in Australia?

You should check with your mobile operator, but keeping a French number is not recommended for job searching and being reachable by local employers.

That's why an Optus SIM card, as well as a free mail service, are included in the Work and Travel packages.

Does my phone work in Australia?

You should check with your mobile operator, but keeping a French number is not recommended for job searching and being reachable by local employers.

That's why an Optus SIM card, as well as a free mail service, are included in the Work and Travel packages.

Why go on a Working Holiday Visa and work in Australia?

• Cultural experience: A working holiday in Australia provides a unique opportunity to live and immerse yourself in a new culture. You can meet local people, participate in festivals and events, discover Australian cuisine, and explore beautiful landscapes.
• English immersion: If you want to improve your English, Australia is an ideal place to practice it daily. You will be constantly exposed to spoken English and have the opportunity to practice with native speakers. Beware of the accent, which may be surprising at first!
•  Personal development: An Australian Working Holiday Visa allows you to step out of your comfort zone, adapt to a new environment, and take on new challenges. You will develop skills such as independence and self-confidence.
• Employment: Australia offers many job opportunities, especially in sectors such as hospitality, restaurants, tourism, and agriculture. You can gain international work experience and add an interesting line to your resume.
• Country exploration: Australia is a vast country with a great diversity of landscapes. You can explore beautiful beaches, national parks, deserts, mountains, and dynamic cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. A working holiday gives you the opportunity to travel and discover the natural beauty of Australia.
• Meeting people: By working and traveling in Australia, you will meet people from around the world who share the same interests and passion for adventure. It's an opportunity to expand your international network.
• Flexibility: The Australian working holiday visa allows you to work legally in Australia while having the freedom to travel at your own pace for one year! You can choose to work for a certain period and then explore the country during your free time.

To summarize, here's a checklist to help you prepare for your Australian Working Holiday Visa:

• Conduct thorough research: Learn about the specific requirements of the Australian Working Holiday Visa, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and visa conditions.
• Obtain a working holiday visa: Start by applying for the Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or subclass 462, depending on your nationality). Follow the instructions provided by the Australian government carefully to complete your application.
• Prepare your finances: Establish a budget for your stay in Australia, taking into account expenses such as accommodation, transportation, food, and leisure activities. Make sure you have sufficient savings to cover your initial expenses.
• Get comprehensive health insurance before you depart. Check if your home country has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia to ensure adequate medical coverage.
• Plan your itinerary: Identify the regions you want to visit in Australia and create a rough itinerary. Remember that Australia is a vast country, and it's important to plan your travels well.
• Look for job opportunities: Seasonal jobs, hospitality, restaurants, agriculture, and tourism are often areas where working holidaymakers can find employment in Australia.
• Organize your accommodation: Start looking for housing options upon your arrival in Australia. You can consider staying in hostels, searching for shared rentals on specialized websites, or contacting working holiday groups on social media.
• Prepare your resume: Our local team will help you tailor your resume to Australian standards and highlight relevant skills and experiences. Make sure to include your contact details (phone number provided in the pack) and an Australian address (such as your hostel) to facilitate your job search.
• Familiarize yourself with Australian culture and customs: Get to know Australian culture, social etiquette, and customs. This will help you adapt more quickly and integrate into your environment.

Enjoy the experience: The Australian Working Holiday Visa is

a unique opportunity to discover a new country, meet people from around the world, and have unforgettable experiences. Be open-minded, take initiative, and make the most of your stay!

Discover our Working Holiday program in Darwin.

Why choose the Northern Territory to start your Australian Working Holiday?

Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory in Australia, is full of exciting activities to explore.

For more information, you can check this link.

Here are some activity suggestions in Darwin:

• Kakadu National Park: Located about a 3-hour drive from Darwin, Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its spectacular landscapes, waterfalls, gorges, and fascinating Aboriginal sites.
• Northern Territory Museum and Art Gallery: Discover the history and culture of the Northern Territory at the Darwin Museum and Art Gallery. You'll find exhibitions on Aboriginal art, natural history, colonial history, and much more.
• Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Visit the Mindil Beach market to enjoy a lively atmosphere and stunning sunset views. You'll find food stalls, crafts, clothing, and other local products.
• George Brown Botanic Gardens: Take a stroll through the George Brown Botanic Gardens, which house a wide variety of tropical plants. Enjoy the tranquility of the garden, observe birds, and discover the local flora.
• Aboriginal dance performance: Attend an Aboriginal dance performance to experience the traditions and culture of the Indigenous people of the region. Some shows also include music demonstrations, body painting, and boomerang throwing.
• Royal Flying Doctor Museum: Explore the fascinating history of medical emergency services in Australia through an interactive visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Museum. Learn about planes, medical teams, and the challenges they face in remote regions.
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) cruise: Take a day trip from Darwin to explore Nitmiluk National Park, known for its stunning gorges and boat cruises along the Katherine River.
• Bike ride along the waterfront promenade: Rent a bike and ride along Darwin's waterfront promenade. You can enjoy views of the harbor, stop at cafes and restaurants, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of the city.