AUSTRALIA
Australia doesn' t have a specific program for travelling as an au pair. In any case, you can participate at the working-holiday program for young aged between 18 and 30 years old, but only if it was signed a bilateral agreement between Australia and the country of origin of the young au pair. The countries that have signed this agreement are:
Citizens from these countries can apply for a visa 417 or Working Holiday Maker Visa (Subclass 417).
By obtaining visa for the working-holiday program you are allowed to work in Australia for 12 months and carry out any work within a temporary and occasional basis, but you can not stay for more than three months with the same employer.
Citizens of New Zealand have not require a permit to work because there is a specific agreement between the two countries.
American citizens, Chile, Indonesia, Malaysia and Turkey may apply for a visa 462 for working- holiday, for the maximum period of 4 months. This visa must be requested through the association BUNAC.
The working hours are around 30-35 per week, often with two days off.
Pocket money amounts about 80-200 Australian dollars per week.
The au pair must pay travel expenses , and she/he must also be in possession of a ticket for the trip back.
It is recommended a private health insurance before leaving the country of origin.
The visa in most cases can also be requested via Internet.
For more information on obtaining a visa see the website Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affair.
Read our FAQ to learn more about the au pair job.