The Australian Working Holiday visa program enables young people from eligible countries to travel to Australia for up to one year.
In a bid to expand the Working Holiday visa program and encourage more working holiday makers to travel to Australia, the Federal Government has recently introduced changes which have resulted in more flexibility for visa holders and Australian employers.
Increase of the Working Holiday Visa Maximum Age Limit
The maximum age limit for applicants for the Working Holiday visa has been increased from 30 years to 35 years. Not only does this provide greater flexibility for visa applicants, but may also result in Australian businesses benefiting from slightly older travellers who may have a higher level of experience in the workforce.
Ability to Work for One Employer Beyond Six Months
Previously, holders of Working Holiday visas required special permission from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection to work for an employer for more than six months. Working Holiday visa holders can now work with the same employer for up to 12 months, in circumstances where the work is undertaken in different locations and work in any one location does not exceed six months.
For example, a visa holder can work with one employer for up to 12 months in:
- hotels, resorts or restaurants within the same chain, provided they are in different premises;
- independently owned franchises, in different workplaces;
- State and Territory schools and health care facilities, provided these facilities are at different addresses; and
- separate branches or facilities of the same organisation or business owner.
This allows employers to transfer the skills gained by their employee to another location or branch within the business.
Lowered Tax Rates for Working Holiday Visa Holders
From 1 July 2017, working holiday makers will be taxed at 15% on earnings up to $37,000. Previously, the tax rate was 19% for earnings up to $37,000.
Benefits to Australian Businesses
As well as benefiting the Australian tourist industry, the Working Holiday visa program has assisted Australian businesses requiring workers on a casual or short-term basis in specific roles. The expanded and more flexible Working Holiday visa program will provide Australian businesses with the opportunity to hire more senior employees with an increase in the age limit and in certain situations, retain working holiday makers for a 12 month period.
For advice regarding Working Holiday visas, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@hartmanlawyers.com.au for Australian immigration assistance.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on relevant matters. It is not intended to be comprehensive nor does it constitute legal advice. You are advised to seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content contained in this website.