Finished your studies or looking to do some travelling before starting full-time employment? Australia is a fantastic country to take a gap year!
Also known as a sabbatical year, students or graduating students will often take a few months or even a few years in between high school and university or after academic studies to travel, volunteer, learn a new hobby or simply relax after years of hard work.
So if you’re considering a gap year, we break down how you can plan your year abroad in Australia including why you should choose to come Down Under, your working holiday options and any safety tips.
Why choose Australia in 2025?
Beaches, friendly locals, incredible weather, a bustling entertainment scene… There are so many reasons why you should consider Australia for your gap year in 2025. Aus will also play host to plenty of events across the year including the Australian Open held in Melbourne, Dark Mofo in June 2025, City2Surf – the largest fun run in the world, and plenty of other music events throughout the year.
How to budget for a gap year
There’s no one-size-fits-all number that will work for everyone’s gap year budget. Before you start booking flights, there are some things you should consider when it comes to budgeting for your year abroad:
- Where you will be staying and if you will be travelling across the country or choosing to stay in one location
- The cost of basic necessities such as accommodation, transportation and food
- If you will be travelling with a friend or partner to minimise some costs
- Any activities you hope to do while in Australia
- How long your gap year will be
It’s also a great idea to take up a few extra shifts at work and cut back on any non-essential spending while you’re in your home country to save up some money before your gap year. Our ost of Living Calculator is a great tool for estimating how much it would cost you to live in your chosen city or town.
Working holiday options
If you decide you will need money during your gap year in Australia, you can apply for a working holiday visa. Individuals holding a passport from eligible countries and between the ages of 18 to 30 (and sometimes 35 depending on the country) may stay in Australia for 12 months and take part in short-term work to help pay for their holiday.
The types of jobs available will depend on what’s needed however common positions include wait staff at cafes and restaurants, customer service roles at hotels, tour guides, fruit pickers or construction work such as painting. You can find out more information about a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) on the Department of Home Affairs website.
How to select your destinations
Now down to the fun bit—choosing your destination! Australia is a big country and can cater to so many people. More of a city person? The major cities of Sydney and Melbourne are great options. Prefer staying close to the beaches? Consider Perth or Newcastle. Want that authentic country experience? Towns like Albury or Broken Hill might be great options.
Have a think about your likes, what you want to explore, how you’ll get around (if you’re relying on public transport or choosing to hire a car or campervan) and what your budget allows. Check out the Destinations section on our website for a helpful guide on some of Australia’s most popular spots for students.
Travel and safety tips
It’s important to stay safe during your time abroad, regardless of where you end up staying. Keep your family and friends updated on your movements, and seek help from local authorities if you need it. Read up on local laws before arriving in the country as they may differ from what you’re used to back home and don’t hesitate to call 000 in an emergency or get in touch with the police assistance line for non-urgent help on 131 444.
Making connections and finding a community
Exploring a new country is a great way to make new friends, pick up a new hobby and establish a greater community. While you’re in Australia, why not join a run club, attend a book club at the local library, or strike up a conversation with your friendly barista at the café down the road? Many travellers will begin their gap year journey at a hostel where you can meet plenty of like-minded people who may even be taking a year abroad, too. Wherever you decide to call home in Australia for the next few months, you’re bound to meet a few friendly faces along the way.
