Australia's Queensland launches working holiday scheme open for New Zealanders

  • 18/05/2022
Gold Coast.
Queensland's Gold Coast. Photo credit: Getty Images

Queensland has launched a working holiday scheme to attract desperately-needed workers to the Australian state.

Working holidayer passes are available for NZ$330 and are open to people of all ages from countries including New Zealand. 

The visa length is for three months and is available at that price until August 31, before it increases to NZ$595.

"Get your working holidayer pass to Queensland and discover why achieving that ultimate work-life balance is much easier when you work on an island, in the outback, on a boat exploring the Great Barrier Reef or surrounded by a world heritage-listed rainforest," the state's tourism marketing agency said. 

"There are thousands of jobs available right now across Queensland and Greyhound Australia's extensive bus network will get you to where you want to work and play in paradise."

Most New Zealand citizens can already work in Australia - under a special category visa - but permanent residents must still apply for a visa. 

"With 30 days of non-consecutive travel over three months and $200 (NZ$220) of free experiences in one pass, now is the time to start ticking off that once-in-a-lifetime working holiday bucket list," Tourism and Events Queensland said.

The pass included choices of more than 100 Queensland destinations.

"From diving on the Great Barrier Reef, sailing the Whitsundays, learning to surf on the Gold Coast or exploring K'gari (Fraser Island) on a beach 4WD adventure, it's time to create unforgettable moments that last a lifetime."