Alpine Resorts in Australia Seek Inclusion in Working Holiday Maker Scheme
Exploring Australia on a Working Holiday: Inês and Rúben’s Story
Inês Carvalhido and Rúben Vasques, a couple of adventurous souls from Portugal, embarked on their Australian journey just over a year ago. With the warmth of a sun-kissed Aussie summer and their working holiday visas in hand, they set off to explore the east coast. Picture them hopping from beach to beach, working and volunteering in various roles, melding seamlessly into the local vibe.
How They Earned Their Second-Year Visa Extension
After clocking up 88 days of work in the sunny paradise of Airlie Beach, plus volunteering at a forest restoration project in Gippsland, the duo secured a second-year visa extension. Who wouldn’t want more time in this beautiful country?
From Sun to Snow: The Lure of the Ski Fields
As winter rolled in, Inês was drawn to the idea of working at a ski resort. “It’s a whole new vibe!” she said, adding that the included accommodation made it even more appealing. But not all ski resorts qualify for visa extension work—something that caught them off guard.
Understanding the Australia Working Holiday Maker Scheme Requirements
Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) scheme requires many visa holders—particularly those outside the UK—to complete 88 days of work in specific regional areas. Typically, this involves farming, construction, or other designated roles. Hospitality and tourism jobs are sometimes eligible, but only in certain postcodes, which adds a layer of complexity for travellers hoping to extend their stay.
Why Ski Resort Jobs Don’t Always Count
Inês and Rúben, excited about a ski season job, soon realised the limitations. “Why don’t ski fields count?” Inês questioned, frustrated by the inconsistencies in visa rules. Many eager travellers face similar barriers—keen employers, plenty of jobs, but roles that don’t tick the boxes for WHM extensions.
Calls for Change from Within the Industry
At Falls Creek, Michelle Lovell, president of the local Chamber of Commerce, is advocating for change. “Think of us as snow farmers,” she joked, emphasising the seasonal nature and essential contribution of ski resort jobs. Thanks to recent changes, many of her staff now come from the UK, but there’s still a broader pool of international talent that remains untapped.
Michelle notes that ski resorts offer far more than just slope-side service. From housekeeping and admin to driving shuttles and managing logistics, the opportunities are diverse—and deserving of recognition within the WHM scheme.
Post-Pandemic Boom in Working Holiday Visas
Interest in Australia’s working holiday visas has soared since COVID-19. In 2023–24, over 194,000 visas were granted—significantly higher than the year before. With this surge, the Department of Home Affairs is reviewing the program, aiming to balance regional labour needs with fair treatment and opportunity for migrant workers.
Thinking About Your Own Australian Working Holiday?
If you’re considering the Australia Working Holiday Maker Scheme, know that your adventure could include far more than fruit-picking or farm labour. From beach towns to snowfields, there’s a rich variety of experiences waiting.
What Would Your Ideal Aussie Job Be?
Would you dive into tourism, try your hand at admin in the Alps, or pick up a trade in the outback? Share your dream WHM role in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts.
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Ski resorts – not usually the first thing you’d associate with a move to Australia, that’s for sure! 😊