Sydney’s skyline is constantly evolving, and you can be a part of it! Working holiday visa holders with a thirst for adventure and a strong work ethic can find fulfilling opportunities in Sydney’s booming construction industry. But before you grab your hard hat, here are some essential tips to get you started.
Tips for Working Holiday Visa holders
- Safety first: Get your White Card
Safety is paramount on Australian construction sites. No entry is possible without a White Card, a nationally recognised construction induction course. You can find White Card training providers online or through TAFE NSW.
- Gear Up: Invest in PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is another non-negotiable. Steel-capped boots, a high-visibility vest, safety glasses, and ear protection are essential. Bunnings Warehouse or specialised PPE stores like RSEA Safety will have everything you need.
- Highlight your skills with an attractive resume
Even if you’re new to construction, emphasise transferable skills. Were you a farmhand? Highlight your physical strength and stamina. Did you work in hospitality? Point out your ability to follow instructions and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Find your crew: Consider labour hire
Agencies like Ideal Labour Hire connects workers with companies that need short-term or project-based help. This is a great option for WHV holders as it allows for flexibility and exposure to different work environments.
- Be a reliable worker
First impressions count! Punctuality, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic will set you apart and open doors for future opportunities.
With these tips and a can-do attitude, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful construction career during your Sydney working holiday adventure!
It might interest you: Confined Space Training: Required in Sydney’s construction
To which Working Holiday Visa can you apply?
There are two Working Holiday visa subclasses for Australia: Subclass 417 and Subclass 462. The eligible countries differ slightly between the two subclasses.Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Subclass 417 (Working Holiday visa): This visa is for citizens of Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region), Republic of Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan (except for official or diplomatic passports holders), and the United Kingdom (including British National Overseas passport holders). The age limit for this visa is typically 18 to 30 years old, with some exceptions allowing applications up to 35 years old.
- Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday visa): This visa is for citizens of Argentina, Austria, Chile, China (including Mainland China and Hong Kong), Czech Republic, Ecuador, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Peru, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, Uruguay, USA, and Vietnam. The age limit for this visa is generally 18 to 30 years old.