Throughout COVID-19 in Australia, many visitors on Working Holiday Visas stayed in the country. Whether these visitors were at the beginning of their visa or the middle, there’s still time to continue travelling the country. Since Australia is in full swing of removing restrictions, it’s time to continuing the WHV adventure after COVID-19.
Most backpackers come to Australia on a WHV to work and travel around the country. Both of these have become nearly impossible due to ongoing restrictions and the amount of job-loss from the pandemic.
The past few months have flown by living through COVID-19 in self-isolation. It’s been a tough time for the entire country, but especially so for those without a place to call home. Or, a family to stay with.
When to Start Travelling within Australia Again
State borders are opening up and social distancing rules are being removed. But when is the best time to begin travelling again? It depends on your situation and location, really. Throughout the pandemic many people have been running on savings, so if you don’t have the funds, it may not be possible to begin travelling again.
However if travelling in Australia is still an option, focus on state borders opening and stay tuned for news of more COVID-19 outbreaks. State borders will be opening up on July 20 for South Australia. Already the state is allowing visitors from the Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania. Visitors from these states will not have to self-isolate for 14 days when arriving.
Queensland originally stated July 10 as a tentative date for reopening its borders, but is now second guessing that date. The government in Queensland fears COVID-19 in Victoria and New South Wales cases aren’t where they need to be for re-opening the border, according to the brisbane times.
New South Wales and Victoria never closed their borders but did restrict travelling for essential travel only. New South Wales was hit the hardest overall by COVID-19 with over 3,100 people becoming infection, according to NSW Health. As of June 1, 2020 the non-essential travel ban was lifted and interstate tourism began to proliferate.
But, when state borders do open it’s best to wait a few weeks before travelling. Especially so, if your current situation is more comfortable than being on the road. ABC News reports, health authorities in NSW predict there may be a second wave. Waiting a few weeks before leaving makes it possible to avoid heading straight into a second wave of COVID-19 and facing additional travel restrictions.
Searching for Jobs After COVID-19
Unlike Australians which lost their jobs due to COVID-19, backpackers and other visitors on temporary visas did not receive any support from the government. This means those on temporary visas may have need to search for work before travelling again in Australia.
There’s a lot of discussion around who and where is hiring backpackers at the moment. Overall it’s still difficult to find a job, for both temporary visa holders and those with full working rights.
Those seeking to complete 88 days regional work may be able to find jobs, depending on their location. Currently with most state borders still closed those on WHVs may get lucky finding a job opportunity in the state they’re in.
Farmers though are still looking for reliable employees throughout the country. There is still the same demand this year as other years, but there’s now less backpackers in the country and even less willing to do the lowest paying jobs.
Having a hard time looking for regional work? My tips for finding a regional job still apply during the pandemic!
Most service-industry and tourism jobs still haven’t picked up and employers go first to their trained employees rather than finding someone new. However because most Australian’s have had money coming throughout the pandemic, as restrictions continue to lift, service-industry and tourism jobs will pick up again. These sectors often rely on energetic and experienced backpackers willing to do the job.
Other Options for WHV Adventures after COVID-19
Although it’s called a Working Holiday visa, there’s more to visiting Australia than just travelling and working. Most people have had a lot of time off during this pandemic, but there’s no rush to travel again if it doesn’t feel right. There’s plenty of other things where you’re located.
If you can’t find a job and you bank account is low:
As each state in Australia is slowly reducing its restrictions, there’s plenty of free activities. This may include hikes and other sightseeing to do locally. Staying busy is key to staying out of a rut and focused on positivity. Head over to your local National Parks state page to see what’s in the area for some tips. Or ask your local tourism board for suggestions.
If you’re around New South Wales’ South Coast, one of my favourites is the Drawing Room Rocks close to Kangaroo Valley, NSW.
If you can’t afford accommodation and you need help:
It’s completely understandable that not every temporary visa holder has thousands of savings to continue to pay for rent and groceries throughout COVID-19. That’s the exact reason why Adopt A Backpacker was created. It’s a set of Facebook groups that connect Australian hosts with temporary visa holders for free accommodation. I spoke with the founder of this movement to share everything you need to know about it.
If you’re not sure whether to stay in Australia or return home to your home country:
This has got to be one of the most common sentiments amongst temporary visa holders globally. Whether it was before, during or towards the end of the pandemic, it’s easy to wonder: what if I just go home? It’s important to remember the emotional and mental space you’re in throughout the pandemic is hard to cope with, naturally. It’s normal to feel homesick and bored, but staying in Australia may be extremely rewarding. Especially as restrictions are continue to lift.
Try to think objectively and not make any emotional, quick decisions about leaving the country. Because during this pandemic and possibly for the duration of your visa, you may not be able to return.
If you need some travel inspiration, check out these road trips: Melbourne to Sydney coastal route and inland, the Great Ocean Road and regional Victoria!
