Come and Work in Australia – Changes to Working Holiday Visas for UK Passport Holders
New arrangements have been established between Australia and the UK under the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program and Youth Mobility Scheme. UK passport holders are now able to be granted up to 3 Working Holiday visas without having to meet any specified work requirements. You can explore Australia's vibrant culture, gain valuable work experience, and consider long-term employment opportunities without having to undertake specified work in certain industries and areas.
The Working Holiday (subclass 417) is now open to people between 18 and 35 years of age. Expanding the age range to 35 allows young professionals to gain international experience in a job field they are enthusiastic about, opening doors to personal and professional growth.
The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement is a massive stride towards making trade, investment, and mobility between our two countries more accessible, which will have a positive impact on both Australia and the UK. This could include the following:
- Economic growth: The new visa arrangements are not just about personal opportunities; they are set to stimulate economic growth. The influx of skilled workers and professionals from the UK will not only increase productivity but also drive Australia’s economic expansion. This is a positive step towards a stronger economy and more opportunities for everyone, including recruitment organisations like RHL Australia, who can expect a boost in the available talent pool.
- Training and education: As more professionals and students move between countries, educational opportunities will be expanded. This will enhance opportunities to collaborate and offer joint programs, and the overall quality of education and training will improve.
But what about the impact on recruitment organisations like RHL Australia? We understand that the new visa arrangements could significantly change recruitment, but these are some of the things that can be expected:
- Access to a larger talent pool: Hiring managers and recruitment consultants will have access to a broader pool of qualified and skilled workers from the UK. This will help address shortages in various industries, especially manufacturing, healthcare and engineering.
- Increased competition: While there will be a larger talent pool to choose from, it may also increase competition for jobs among local and UK workers. Employers like RHL Australia must balance their recruitment activities and alter their strategies to ensure they meet local and international needs and requirements.
The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement announced in May 2023 represents a significant milestone in the relationship between Australia and the UK. The new working visa arrangements promise to enhance economic growth, promote training and education, and transform the recruitment of UK passport holders in Australia. Now the agreement is in motion, it will be important for businesses to take charge of new opportunities that may come out of the agreement.