GET TRIP NOTES CHECK DATES & BOOK ULTIMATEOZ 8-DAY WORKING HOLIDAY PACKAGE
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA GAP YEAR
Mobile-UltimateOz-Slider-2023

The UltimateOz Australia Gap Year package is the best way to start your Working Holiday in Australia! Your arrival week is jam-packed with social activities while we arrange everything you need to start work in Australia and settle into life Down Under with ease. You’ll experience UltimateOz Australia Gap Year with a group of new mates and a fun, experienced guide.

We welcome thousands of travellers starting their Aussie gap year in Sydney every year! We’ll set you up with all of the Gap Year Essentials and tell you everything you need to know about living and working abroad in Australia. We’re experts in Australia travel and can’t wait to show you the highlights and the hidden gems!

UltimateOz-Map

8-DAY WORKING HOLIDAY ARRIVAL PACKAGE

ULTIMATEOZ WEEK

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA GAP YEAR

4.8 Stars - based on 2592 ULTIMATE traveller reviews
PRICES START FROM:
EUR GBP AUD
€775 £675 $1299

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a deposit today! Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.

WORKING HOLIDAY AUSTRALIA

WORKING HOLIDAY VISA AND GAP YEAR STARTER WEEK

The UltimateOz Australia Gap Year package is the best way to start your Working Holiday in Australia! Your arrival week is jam-packed with social activities while we arrange everything you need to start work in Australia and settle into life Down Under with ease. You’ll experience UltimateOz Australia Gap Year with a group of new mates and a fun, experienced guide.

We welcome thousands of travellers starting their Aussie gap year in Sydney every year! We’ll set you up with all of the Gap Year Essentials and tell you everything you need to know about living and working abroad in Australia. We’re experts in Australia travel and can’t wait to show you the highlights and the hidden gems!

UltimateOz Sydney Harbour Gap Year

Meet other Travellers

Start your time in Australia by making new friends.

UltimateOz Sydney Day 1

Suitable for

Working Holiday Makers, Students and Travellers.

Central Accommodation

Stay at Sydney’s number 1 Hostel.

Gap Year Essentials

Help setting up your Bank, TFN and Gap Year essentials.

UltimateOz Gap Year - Basecamp's secret beach

Explore Port Stephens

3 days and 2 nights in Port Stephens, NSW

Sydney to Great Barrier Reef - Welcome to Sydney

ULTIMATE Inclusions

Daily Activities and Social Experiences.

UltimateOz-Map
PACKAGE INCLUSIONS
VISA INFORMATION
WHERE WE STAY
JOB SUPPORT
GAP YEAR ESSENTIALS
HOW TO BOOK
PACKAGE INCLUSIONS
  • Ultimate Tour Guide

  • Airport arrival transfer

  • 7 nights’ Accommodation 

  • Welcome Gap Year Orientation

  • Guided Sydney City Walk

  • Welcome Hostel Dinner

  • Work & Travel Information Session

  • Private Sydney Catamaran Cruise (incl BBQ)

  • Return Transfer to Port Stephens

  • 4WD through the Worimi Conservation Lands

  • Sandboard down the Stockton Bight Dunes

  • Mt Tomaree Bush Hike & Lookout

  • Interact with Australian Wildlife.

  • Beach Evening & Stargazing

  • Port Stephens Dolphin Cruise

  • Experience Sydney nightlife.

  • Coastal Beach Walk

  • Visit Bondi Beach

  • 12 Month Jobs Support

  • 3 x Dinners, 2 x Breakfast, 2 x Lunch

  • SIM Card Activation

  • Tax File Number & Australian Bank Account setup

  • 12 Month Mail Holding Service

  • Free Wifi and computer access at Ultimate HQ

  • Ongoing support from the Ultimate Crew

We recommend a travel budget of approx $20-$30/ day for meals when not included in the itinerary.

VISA INFORMATION

417 WORKING HOLIDAY VISA

The Subclass 417 Working Holiday Visa is available to young adults from 19 eligible countries who want to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months — with the option to extend for a second and third year.

Age 18–35: United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Canada, France, Italy, Denmark

Age 18–30: Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan

 

Conditions

Live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. Enter Australia any time within 12 months of your visa being granted, and leave and re-enter as many times as you like while it's valid. Work with each employer for up to 6 months and study for up to 4 months. Extend your stay with a 2nd-Year Visa and then a 3rd-Year Visa — each adding a further 12 months.

 

Eligibility

You must apply from outside Australia and be outside Australia when the visa is granted. You cannot have previously entered Australia on a Working Holiday Visa, and you cannot be accompanied by dependent children. You'll need approximately AUD $5,000 in available funds to support yourself on arrival.

 

For full details and to apply, visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

 


462 WORK AND HOLIDAY VISA

The Subclass 462 Work and Holiday Visa is available to 18–30-year-olds from the USA, Argentina, Chile, Malaysia, and Turkey. It allows you to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months, with multiple entries permitted. A 2nd-Year extension is available on completion of 3 months (88 days) of specified regional work during your first year.

Some countries have additional requirements: US applicants must have graduated from high school. Applicants from Argentina, Chile, Malaysia, and Turkey must hold tertiary qualifications or have completed at least two years of undergraduate study.

For full details and to apply, visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

 


2ND & 3RD YEAR EXTENSIONS

To qualify for a 2nd-Year extension, complete 88 days (3 months) of specified work in regional Australia during your first visa — such as fruit picking, farm work, fishing, mining, or construction. For a 3rd-Year extension, complete 6 months of specified work during your second visa. On a 2nd-Year Visa, you can also return to work for up to 6 months with an employer from your first year.

UK passport holders: From 1 July 2024, under the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement, UK citizens can apply for a 2nd and 3rd-Year Visa without completing any specified work.

WHERE WE STAY

Your UltimateOz Australia Gap Year package includes your first 7 nights' accommodation in Sydney.

We spend 5-nights total at WakeUp! hostel, voted Sydney's best backpacker hostel and 2-nights in dorm share cabins at UltimateOz basecamp, located 5 minutes from the beach and home to Aussie wildlife such as kangaroos, cockatoos and koalas.

Accommodation is based on 6-10 bed shared dorm arrangements. Upgrades to private rooms are available during our city stay.

Keen to stay in Sydney? Extra nights at WakeUp! hostel can be selected when you book online.

JOB SUPPORT

JOB SUPPORT

Finding work in a new country is one of the biggest challenges of a working holiday — and one of the most important. Our job support program is built around getting you ready to live and work in Australia from day one, giving you the tools, resources, and confidence to hit the ground running.


WHAT'S INCLUDED

Working Holiday Job Board: Get access to our dedicated job board featuring genuine positions suited to Working Holiday Makers across Australia — hospitality, retail, agriculture, tourism, construction, and more. Browse and apply before you even arrive.

CV Review & Assistance: Australian employers have specific expectations when it comes to CVs and cover letters. Our team will review your CV, help you tailor it for the local market, and make sure you're putting your best foot forward.

Job Seminars: Attend our arrival seminars covering everything you need to know about finding work in Australia — how to approach employers, what to expect from the hiring process, workplace rights, pay rates, and the difference between casual, part-time, and full-time work.

Arrival Assistance: From the moment you land, our team is on hand to help. We'll point you in the right direction, answer your questions, and make sure you're set up and ready to start applying as quickly as possible.

Local Knowledge: We'll let you know which industries are hiring, which areas have the best job opportunities for Working Holiday Makers, and how to find second-year visa qualifying work when the time comes.


WORKING HOLIDAY MAKERS & EMPLOYMENT IN AUSTRALIA

Australia is one of the world's most popular working holiday destinations — and for good reason. The job market is strong, wages are high by international standards, and employers across the country actively seek out Working Holiday Makers to fill roles in key industries.

Over 150,000 Working Holiday visas (Subclass 417) were granted in 2024–25 alone, with demand growing year on year. The most common industries for Working Holiday Makers are hospitality and food service, agriculture and farm work, retail, tourism, and construction — all sectors with consistent demand and flexible, short-term opportunities well suited to the visa conditions.

Hospitality is the single most popular sector, employing around 25% of all Working Holiday Makers, with cafes, bars, restaurants, and hotels in every major city always on the lookout for experienced staff. Wages typically range from AUD $25–$35 per hour, with casual loadings applying on evenings and weekends.

Farm work and agriculture accounts for a significant share of Working Holiday employment — particularly for those seeking their second-year visa. Regional fruit picking, harvesting, and farm roles are available year-round across Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, with piece-rate and hourly pay varying by region and season.

Around 40% of Working Holiday Makers move into regional work at some point during their stay — not only to qualify for visa extensions, but because regional areas often offer higher pay, free or subsidised accommodation, and a genuinely unique Australian experience.

The majority of Working Holiday Makers find their first job within two to four weeks of arriving in Australia. Those who arrive prepared — with a local-ready CV, an Australian bank account, a Tax File Number, and a clear understanding of the job market — typically find work significantly faster.

That's exactly what the UltimateOz job support program is designed to deliver.

GAP YEAR ESSENTIALS

FINDING WORK

You’ll receive a 12-months membership to Travellers At Work, our in-house recruitment agency, voted Australia’s best backpacker job service. We connect employers and job seekers making sure every job we post is a genuine position suitable for working holidaymakers.

Get started before you arrive! Write your CV, browse jobs online from anywhere and easily apply even on your phone or tablet. Set up your profile and be found by employers on short notice.

Talk to our recruitment experts to get help with writing your CV, advice on second-year visa jobs or necessary certificates and any other questions you may have.


AUSSIE BANK ACCOUNT & TAX FILE NUMBER

We’ll help you open your Australian bank account from home so your bank card will be ready to collect when you arrive! You'll need a Tax File Number to legally work in Australia. We’ll take care of the application so you don't have to worry about the paperwork.


12-MONTH MAIL SERVICE

We’ll provide you with a fixed address for your time in Australia. Your mail will be scanned so you can easily access it online – anytime and anywhere.


SIM CARD

We’ll organise your Australian mobile SIM (any size), with a range of cheap prepaid plans available.


TAX REFUNDS

At the end of your time in Australia, we’ll help you claim a tax refund, which could be worth thousands.


MEDICARE

If eligible, we’ll help you apply for Medicare so you get discounted / free healthcare whilst in Australia.


TRAINING COURSE DISCOUNTS

For most hospitality work in Australia it’s a legal requirement to have a RSA Certificate (Responsible Service of Alcohol). UltimateOz can help you book your RSA and any other training courses you may wish to book including Bar skills, Cocktail skills, White card (construction work) and more. We’re part of a Registered Training Organisation and offer discounts on all other courses.

HOW TO BOOK

HOW TO BOOK

To book UltimateOz Australia Gap Year, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.

Keen to travel the East Coast of Australia? Check out Ultimate East Coast tours

If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit.

FLIGHTS, INSURANCE & VISA INFO

  • Flights to Sydney are not included. Compare flight prices here.

We recommend booking your flights to arrive into Sydney on Sunday, so you'll be ready for the tour to start on Monday morning. Arriving later? No worries! Your arrival transfer can be organised for any incoming flight.

  • Travel insurance is not included. Get a quote from our recommended travel insurance partners here.

TOUR & BOOKING INFORMATION

Tour starts in Sydney (Monday at 11.30am)
Tour ends in Sydney (Sunday afternoon)

Extra nights can be selected when you book online.

Find out more about Australian Working Holidays here.

 

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS
VISA INFORMATION
JOB ASSISTANCE
GAP YEAR ESSENTIALS
BOOKING INFORMATION
PACKAGE INCLUSIONS
  • ULTIMATE Group Leader 
  • Airport arrival transfer
  • 7 nights’ Accommodation in Sydney (5n) and Port Stephens (2n)
  • Tax File Number & Australian Bank Account setup
  • 12 Month Mail Holding Service
  • Welcome Gap Year Orientation
  • Guided Sydney City Walk
  • Welcome Hostel Dinner
  • Work & Travel Information Session
  • Private Sydney Catamaran Cruise (incl BBQ)
  • Return Transfer to Port Stephens 
  • 4WD through the Worimi Conservation Lands
  • Sandboard down the Stockton Bight Dunes
  • Mt Tomaree Bush Hike & Lookout
  • Interact with Australian Wildlife
  • Beach Evening & Stargazing
  • Port Stephens Dolphin Cruise
  • Experience Sydney nightlife
  • Coastal Beach Walk
  • Visit Bondi Beach
  • 12 Month Jobs Support
  • 3 x Dinners, 2 x Breakfast, 2 x Lunch
  • SIM Card Activation
  • Free Wifi and computer access at Ultimate HQ
  • Ongoing support from the Ultimate Crew

We recommend a travel budget of approx $20-$30/ day for meals when not included in the itinerary.

VISA INFORMATION

417 WORKING HOLIDAY VISA

The Subclass 417 Working Holiday Visa is available to young adults from 19 eligible countries who want to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months — with the option to extend for a second and third year.

Age 18–35: United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Canada, France, Italy, Denmark

Age 18–30: Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan

 

Conditions

Live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. Enter Australia any time within 12 months of your visa being granted, and leave and re-enter as many times as you like while it's valid. Work with each employer for up to 6 months and study for up to 4 months. Extend your stay with a 2nd-Year Visa and then a 3rd-Year Visa — each adding a further 12 months.

 

Eligibility

You must apply from outside Australia and be outside Australia when the visa is granted. You cannot have previously entered Australia on a Working Holiday Visa, and you cannot be accompanied by dependent children. You'll need approximately AUD $5,000 in available funds to support yourself on arrival.

 

For full details and to apply, visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

 


462 WORK AND HOLIDAY VISA

The Subclass 462 Work and Holiday Visa is available to 18–30-year-olds from the USA, Argentina, Chile, Malaysia, and Turkey. It allows you to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months, with multiple entries permitted. A 2nd-Year extension is available on completion of 3 months (88 days) of specified regional work during your first year.

Some countries have additional requirements: US applicants must have graduated from high school. Applicants from Argentina, Chile, Malaysia, and Turkey must hold tertiary qualifications or have completed at least two years of undergraduate study.

 

For full details and to apply, visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

 


2ND & 3RD YEAR EXTENSIONS

To qualify for a 2nd-Year extension, complete 88 days (3 months) of specified work in regional Australia during your first visa — such as fruit picking, farm work, fishing, mining, or construction. For a 3rd-Year extension, complete 6 months of specified work during your second visa. On a 2nd-Year Visa, you can also return to work for up to 6 months with an employer from your first year.

UK passport holders: From 1 July 2024, under the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement, UK citizens can apply for a 2nd and 3rd-Year Visa without completing any specified work.

JOB ASSISTANCE

JOB SUPPORT

Finding work in a new country is one of the biggest challenges of a working holiday — and one of the most important. Our job support program is built around getting you ready to live and work in Australia from day one, giving you the tools, resources, and confidence to hit the ground running.


WHAT'S INCLUDED

Working Holiday Job Board: Get access to our dedicated job board featuring genuine positions suited to Working Holiday Makers across Australia — hospitality, retail, agriculture, tourism, construction, and more. Browse and apply before you even arrive.

CV Review & Assistance: Australian employers have specific expectations when it comes to CVs and cover letters. Our team will review your CV, help you tailor it for the local market, and make sure you're putting your best foot forward.

Job Seminars: Attend our arrival seminars covering everything you need to know about finding work in Australia — how to approach employers, what to expect from the hiring process, workplace rights, pay rates, and the difference between casual, part-time, and full-time work.

Arrival Assistance: From the moment you land, our team is on hand to help. We'll point you in the right direction, answer your questions, and make sure you're set up and ready to start applying as quickly as possible.

Local Knowledge: We'll let you know which industries are hiring, which areas have the best job opportunities for Working Holiday Makers, and how to find second-year visa qualifying work when the time comes.


WORKING HOLIDAY MAKERS & EMPLOYMENT IN AUSTRALIA

Australia is one of the world's most popular working holiday destinations — and for good reason. The job market is strong, wages are high by international standards, and employers across the country actively seek out Working Holiday Makers to fill roles in key industries.

Over 150,000 Working Holiday visas (Subclass 417) were granted in 2024–25 alone, with demand growing year on year. The most common industries for Working Holiday Makers are hospitality and food service, agriculture and farm work, retail, tourism, and construction — all sectors with consistent demand and flexible, short-term opportunities well suited to the visa conditions.

Hospitality is the single most popular sector, employing around 25% of all Working Holiday Makers, with cafes, bars, restaurants, and hotels in every major city always on the lookout for experienced staff. Wages typically range from AUD $25–$35 per hour, with casual loadings applying on evenings and weekends.

Farm work and agriculture accounts for a significant share of Working Holiday employment — particularly for those seeking their second-year visa. Regional fruit picking, harvesting, and farm roles are available year-round across Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, with piece-rate and hourly pay varying by region and season.

Around 40% of Working Holiday Makers move into regional work at some point during their stay — not only to qualify for visa extensions, but because regional areas often offer higher pay, free or subsidised accommodation, and a genuinely unique Australian experience.

The majority of Working Holiday Makers find their first job within two to four weeks of arriving in Australia. Those who arrive prepared — with a local-ready CV, an Australian bank account, a Tax File Number, and a clear understanding of the job market — typically find work significantly faster.

That's exactly what the UltimateOz job support program is designed to deliver.

GAP YEAR ESSENTIALS

FINDING WORK

You’ll receive access to our Travellers At Work Job Database that gives you the opportunity to apply for Working Holiday Maker jobs all around Australia. We connect employers and job seekers making sure every job we post is a genuine position suitable for your working holiday.

Get started before you arrive! Write your CV, browse jobs online from anywhere and easily apply even on your phone or tablet. Set up your profile and be found by employers on short notice.

Talk to our recruitment experts to get help with writing your CV, advice on second-year visa jobs or necessary certificates and any other questions you may have.


AUSSIE BANK ACCOUNT & TAX FILE NUMBER

We’ll help you open your Australian bank account from home so your bank card will be ready to collect when you arrive! You'll need a Tax File Number to legally work in Australia. We’ll take care of the application so you don't have to worry about the paperwork.


12-MONTH MAIL SERVICE

We’ll provide you with a fixed address for your time in Australia. Your mail will be scanned so you can easily access it online – anytime and anywhere.


SIM CARD

We’ll organise your Australian mobile SIM (any size), with a range of cheap prepaid plans available.


TAX REFUNDS

At the end of your time in Australia, we’ll help you claim a tax refund, which could be worth thousands.


MEDICARE

If eligible, we’ll help you apply for Medicare so you get discounted / free healthcare whilst in Australia.


TRAINING COURSE DISCOUNTS

For most hospitality work in Australia it’s a legal requirement to have a RSA Certificate (Responsible Service of Alcohol). UltimateOz can help you book your RSA and any other training courses you may wish to book including Bar skills, Cocktail skills, White card (construction work) and more. We’re part of a Registered Training Organisation and offer discounts on all other courses.

BOOKING INFORMATION

HOW TO BOOK

 

To book UltimateOz Australia Gap Year, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.

If you have a travel date in mind but you're not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a $300 deposit.


FLIGHTS, INSURANCE & VISA INFO

 

Flights to Sydney are not included. Compare flight prices here.

We recommend booking your flights to arrive into Sydney on Sunday, so you'll be ready for the tour to start on Monday morning. Arriving later? No worries! Your arrival transfer can be organised for any incoming flight. 

Travel insurance is not included. Get a quote from our recommended travel insurance partners here or via World Nomads here


ESSENTIAL BOOKING INFORMATION


UltimateOz Australia Gap Year starts in Sydney on Mondays at 11.30am and ends in Sydney on the following Sunday afternoon. Extra nights can be selected when you book online. Read our full booking terms and conditions here

Find out more about Australian Working Holidays here.

 

 


EASY ARRIVAL

When you arrive catch your transfer from the airport directly to your hostel, located right in the centre of the city. Everything is pre-arranged so your check-in will be quick & easy. UltimateOz Gap Year starts on Mondays throughout the year with additional start dates between September and March.

All departures are guaranteed! Trips do book out quickly so secure your start date with a deposit today or get in touch for help planning your trip!

 


 

OPEN DATED BOOKINGS

Book open dated when you have not decided on a tour date yet, but want to confirm your travel plans and secure a price. Once you have booked open dated, you can book on any available start date of your choosing, subject to availability. 

 

THE ITINERARY

DAY 1 City Tour & Welcome Dinner

Check in to your new home before meeting our legendary Group Leaders and the rest of your group. We’ll introduce you to the office crew, give you a brief overview on what’s going to happen for the week and hand out your SIM card.
We then head out to explore the city. Have lunch in Darling Harbour, see the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and take a trip down to the Botanical Gardens. At the same time, you’ll be getting to know your new mates in Australia and taking some awesome photos to make your mates back home jealous!

Tonight we visit our favourite party bar for our Welcome Dinner!

DAY 2 EXPLORE SYDNEY HARBOUR

After a good night’s sleep, join our comprehensive info session where we’ll explain everything you need to know about working and travelling around Australia. Our team are all experienced travellers and have started where you are now. We’ll support you in anything you need & answer any questions you may have.
We then jump on our very own UltimateOz Catamaran for a cruise on Sydney Harbour. Spend the day cruising, swimming and chilling on Sydney Harbour! Enjoy your first Aussie BBQ on deck.

DAY 3 PORT STEPHENS

Today we head to Port Stephens, famous for its stunning beaches, amazing sand dunes and abundance of Aussie wildlife including dolphins, whales, koalas, echidnas and possums. Our eco-cabin accommodation is just 5-minutes walk to the beach!

DAY 4 PORT STEPHENS

The next morning we jump in the 4WD and ride to the highest dunes to try sandboarding! Then we take a guided bush walk through National Park to our favourite lookout. Enjoy stunning scenery, breathtaking views and get the chance to see koalas in the treetops & migrating whales (May – November).

DAY 5 DOLPHIN CRUISE

On our final day inPort Stephens we take an amazing dolphin watching cruise and get up close to wild bottlenose dolphins. There’s also a chance to see turtles and whales. Relax on deck or ride in the boom net while dolphins swim underneath.  Next we’ll head back to Sydney for our last 2 days of the tour.

DAY 6 PARTY NIGHT

Today you can make an appointment with our team and start working on your Australian CV and planning your Australian adventures. Tonight we get dressed up for a fun night out in Sydney! Meet the group at one of our favourite party bars before starting our Sydney Pub Crawl. We visit some hot spots in the city – VIP express entry and a couple of free welcome drinks along the way!

DAY 7 ICONIC BONDI BEACH

On your last day, we take a tour along Sydney’s cliff-top coastline from Coogee to Bondi and check out six beaches along the way. It’s the perfect way to unwind after an awesome first week in Sydney!

DAY 1 City Tour & Welcome Dinner

Check in to your new home before meeting our legendary Group Leaders and the rest of your group. We’ll introduce you to the office crew, give you a brief overview on what’s going to happen for the week and hand out your SIM card.
We then head out to explore the city. Have lunch in Darling Harbour, see the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and take a trip down to the Botanical Gardens. At the same time, you’ll be getting to know your new mates in Australia and taking some awesome photos to make your mates back home jealous!

Tonight we visit our favourite party bar for our Welcome Dinner!

DAY 2 EXPLORE SYDNEY HARBOUR

After a good night’s sleep, join our comprehensive info session where we’ll explain everything you need to know about working and travelling around Australia. Our team are all experienced travellers and have started where you are now. We’ll support you in anything you need & answer any questions you may have.
We then jump on our very own UltimateOz Catamaran for a cruise on Sydney Harbour. Spend the day cruising, swimming and chilling on Sydney Harbour! Enjoy your first Aussie BBQ on deck.

DAY 3 PORT STEPHENS

Today we head to Port Stephens, famous for its stunning beaches, amazing sand dunes and abundance of Aussie wildlife including dolphins, whales, koalas, echidnas and possums. Our eco-cabin accommodation is just 5-minutes walk to the beach!

DAY 4 PORT STEPHENS

The next morning we jump in the 4WD and ride to the highest dunes to try sandboarding! Then we take a guided bush walk through National Park to our favourite lookout. Enjoy stunning scenery, breathtaking views and get the chance to see koalas in the treetops & migrating whales (May – November).

DAY 5 DOLPHIN CRUISE

On our final day inPort Stephens we take an amazing dolphin watching cruise and get up close to wild bottlenose dolphins. There’s also a chance to see turtles and whales. Relax on deck or ride in the boom net while dolphins swim underneath.  Next we’ll head back to Sydney for our last 2 days of the tour.

DAY 6 PARTY NIGHT

Today you can make an appointment with our team and start working on your Australian CV and planning your Australian adventures. Tonight we get dressed up for a fun night out in Sydney! Meet the group at one of our favourite party bars before starting our Sydney Pub Crawl. We visit some hot spots in the city – VIP express entry and a couple of free welcome drinks along the way!

DAY 7 ICONIC BONDI BEACH

On your last day, we take a tour along Sydney’s cliff-top coastline from Coogee to Bondi and check out six beaches along the way. It’s the perfect way to unwind after an awesome first week in Sydney!

WHERE WE STAY

Your UltimateOz Australia Gap Year package includes your first 7 nights’ accommodation in Sydney. We spend 5-nights in accommodation voted Sydney’s best backpacker hostel, centrally located in the CBD and around the corner from our office.

  • Accommodation is based on 10 bed shared dorm arrangements.
  • Free WIFI available.
  • Bar and Café on site.
  • Sydney Central Location
  • Voted Sydney Number 1 Hostel.
  • Upgrades to private rooms are available during our city stay.

PORT STEPHENS STAY

We spend 2-nights in dorm share cabins at our UltimateOz Port Stephens Experience, located 5 minutes from the beach and home to Aussie wildlife such as kangaroos, cockatoos, possums and koalas.

  • Accommodation is based on 6 bed shared dorm arrangements.
  • Eco-cabins
  • 2x breakfast, 1x lunch, 2x dinner (best Australian BBQ!)
  • 5 minute walk to the beach
  • Sandboarding, hiking and dolphin cruise
  • Natural city escape – an authenic Aussie experience

PORT STEPHENS STAY

We spend 2-nights in dorm share cabins at our UltimateOz Port Stephens Experience, located 5 minutes from the beach and home to Aussie wildlife such as kangaroos, cockatoos, possums and koalas.

  • Accommodation is based on 6 bed shared dorm arrangements.
  • Eco-cabins
  • 2x breakfast, 1x lunch, 2x dinner (best Australian BBQ!)
  • 5 minute walk to the beach
  • Sandboarding, hiking and dolphin cruise
  • Natural city escape – an authenic Aussie experience

FAQS

CAN ANYONE BOOK ULTIMATEOZ?
WHAT DO I NEED TO PLAN BEFORE I LEAVE?
HOW FAR AHEAD SHOULD I BOOK?
I'M TRAVELLING ALONE. HOW WILL I MEET PEOPLE?
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I BOOK?
HOW DO YOU HELP ME FIND WORK?
CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?
IS AN AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION?
IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?
HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY DO I NEED?
WHO WILL I BE TRAVELING WITH?
CAN I ADD EXTRA ACCOMMODATION AND ACTIVITIES TO MY BOOKING?
HOW CAN I ACCESS MY MONEY WHILE TRAVELING AND HOW MUCH SHOULD I BRING?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?
WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER MY TOUR?
WHICH TRAINING COURSES WILL I NEED TO APPLY FOR JOBS IN AUSTRALIA?
WHAT IS MEDICARE AND WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
I WANT TO STAY IN SYDNEY FOR A WHILE, CAN YOU GUYS HELP ME FIND A PLACE?
CAN ANYONE BOOK ULTIMATEOZ?

The UltimateOz Australia Gap Year package is designed for those planning a working holiday / gap year in Australia. The majority of our travellers are aged between 18 and 30.

There are various visa options available depending on your reason for travelling to Australia. If you are planning a Working Holiday, you must apply for a 417 or 462 Visa. You can still book UltimateOz on a Tourist Visa, but you will not be eligible for the Gap Year support elements of the package.

Keen to travel Australia on a tourist visa for a shorter period of time? Check out our 8-day Ultimate Sydney tour, still visiting all the Sydney icons and Port Stephens. This tour is ideal for those on a tourist visa and doesn't include any gap year elements.

WHAT DO I NEED TO PLAN BEFORE I LEAVE?

Travelling to Australia with UltimateOz is easy as! Here’s what you need to do:

HOW FAR AHEAD SHOULD I BOOK?

Departures do book out in advance so we recommend you book your UltimateOz Australia Gap Year package sooner rather than later.

If you're planning your trip last-minute, no worries! We'll do what we can to help you with your travel arrangements.

You can also secure your spot on UltimateOz with a non-refundable 20% deposit. The rest just needs to be paid 6-weeks prior to your trip departure date!

I'M TRAVELLING ALONE. HOW WILL I MEET PEOPLE?

UltimateOz is designed to help you make friends as soon as you arrive in Australia! Most people travelling with UltimateOz arrive alone and stay in touch with friends from the group for the rest of their time here. You’ll spend your first week having loads of fun and getting to know each other. After the UltimateOz week has come to an end, our crew can advise you on finding work, accommodation in Sydney or plan your travel adventure around Australia with your new mates. Chat to others travelling Australia via our Facebook group.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I BOOK?

Once you've booked your UltimateOz Australia Gap Year tour, we'll email you a confirmation along with some important information about your booking. Closer to your tour departure date we'll be in touch to provide you with all the information you'll need prior to your trip to Australia. When you've booked your flights, just let us know your flight number and we'll take care of the rest! 

HOW DO YOU HELP ME FIND WORK?

UltimateOz includes a 12-Month membership to our online job database - Travellers At Work!

During your first week in Sydney we'll give you valuable information about finding work in Australia. We'll share our tips on where to find work,  how to apply and what you can expect to earn!

We’ll provide you with access to the Travellers At Work job database, so you can begin applying for jobs at your earliest convenience. If at any time you need some guidance just swing by and have a one-on-one session with one of our in-house work and travel experts who can help you out in your job search! We'll review your CV and help you adapt your application to suit Aussie employers.

CAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE FLIGHTS & INSURANCE?

We are unable to book flights, but we always recommend using online search engines to research the best available flight routes, prices and times. To ease your experience, we suggest booking via a Travel Agent or directly with your preferred airline. 

Travel insurance is required to participate in this tour. We recommend that you find and compare various policies to ensure you have an appropriate level of coverage for you adventure. Not sure where to start? You can find some trusted Travel Insurers here.

IS AN AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED?

An airport shuttle on arrival is included for guests flying into Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD). During the booking process, or once you have booked your flights, supply us with your full flight details and we'll arrange your Sydney Super Shuttle to take you to the tour meeting point at WakeUp Central Hostel. You can arrive up to three days before your tour starts and we'll ensure a transfer is available to you. Closer to your tour start date we'll supply you with full details on where to meet your shuttle at the airport. If you do not receive this email at least one week before your tour then please contact us.

 

Please note that if you are flying into Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), an airport shuttle is not included — please contact us and we can advise on the best way to reach the meeting point.

CAN I TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

In most cases, we can cater to Vegetarian and Gluten Free diets. We will make every effort to cater to all other diets and needs, but we are unable to guarantee this will be possible in every location we visit. Unfortunately we will not cater for tastes or dislikes. We will ask you to re-confirm any dietary requirements with your Group Leader at the start of your trip.

CAN I TRAVEL WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION?

If you have an existing medical condition or disability that may affect your trip or how deliver our experience, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of your booking. You may be asked to obtain a medical certificate and if we reasonably feel we are unable to accommodate your particular needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking.

IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED?

Yes. It is mandatory that you travel with a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover the likes of cancellation, personal injury and medical expenses. By joining us on tour, you acknowledge that you have obtained a policy and are covered. You are responsible for reading and understanding the details of the policy that you are taking out. You should book your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip.

HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY DO I NEED?

On our Group Tours, your transport and accommodation along with the meals and activities listed on the itinerary are all included in your tour price. While you are travelling you may wish to participate in additional activities which you will need to budget for. While travelling you may wish to eat and drink out or you may plan to cook and prepare some of your own meals.

As a guide, we recommend you budget an additional $40 - $60AUD per day for spending money. Please note that all travellers are different and you may wish to travel with additional spending money. There are amazing optional activities and food options on offer on the East Coast and if you desire to experience most of them, you may wish to budget for additional spending money.

WHO WILL I BE TRAVELING WITH?

Whether you’re travelling solo or with a mate, you’ll meet like-minded travellers from all over the world. UltimateOz is designed to help you make friends as soon as you arrive in Australia! Most people travelling with us stay in touch with their friends from the group for the rest of their stay in Australia. Group sizes vary with each tour however you can expect to travel with an average of 10-20 others on UltimateOz Gap Year.

CAN I ADD EXTRA ACCOMMODATION AND ACTIVITIES TO MY BOOKING?

Of course! You can pre-book extra nights in Sydney if you’re arriving early, and also extend your stay. You can add them onto your booking, or just get in contact with us! Optional activities are available to add on in country if you are interested in exploring more areas around Sydney!

HOW CAN I ACCESS MY MONEY WHILE TRAVELING AND HOW MUCH SHOULD I BRING?

The local currency for Australia is Australian Dollars (AUD). You must have access to sufficient funds to support yourself for the initial stage of your holiday in Australia and you may be asked to show evidence of this upon arrival. If you’re travelling on your gap year, we suggest arriving in Australia with at least AU$5000. The amount you need will depend upon your travel plans and length of stay in Australia.
As part of the UltimateOz package you will have the opportunity to open an Australian bank account before you arrive. We send you a link and all the details you need 4 weeks before your tour is due to start. Then during your first week your leader will take you to the bank to finish the final steps in setting up your account.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO AUSTRALIA?

The great thing is, there is no bad time to travel to Australia! The country is so vast that depending when and where you plan on travelling you're always likely to hit some sun! In Sydney the Summer months run from December to February, but warm, beautiful weather can be experienced all year round. Although the 'Winter' months technically run from June to August, it is not like a Winter you may normally experience in your home country. Temperatures generally don't drop too low, and the sun still shines!

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER MY TOUR?

Your UltimateOz tour may finish, but your support from us will not! Our Work & Travel Experts have been everywhere and seen everything in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji & SE Asia! We can plan or book everything for you and are happy to give you unbiased travel advice! No matter where you want to go and how you want to get there we’ll be able to help plan out the adventure of a lifetime for you!

WHICH TRAINING COURSES WILL I NEED TO APPLY FOR JOBS IN AUSTRALIA?

In Australia, Health and Safety laws require that workers in certain professions (including Hospitality & Construction) undergo compulsory basic training and become certified to be eligible for employment. All hospitality staff must hold certification known as an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) before being eligible for employment on licensed premises. You will also need RGS (Responsible Gambling Services) certification to work in premises with gambling facilities. To work on a construction site it is a requirement that you hold an OH&S General Induction Certificate or “White Card” as it’s commonly known. Our work and travel experts will be more than happy to offer advice and help you book the course you need.

WHAT IS MEDICARE AND WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Medicare is Australia’s governmental public health policy. If you are on a Working Holiday Visa you may be eligible to be covered by Medicare for the duration of your stay in Australia. Medicare is an add on, not a replacement for any other insurances you may have so you still need to have valid travel insurance! Citizens of the UK, Sweden, Finland, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, the Republic of Ireland and New Zealand are covered for the duration of their approved visa time in Australia. Citizens of Malta and Italy are covered by Medicare for a period of 6 months from their date of arrival in Australia. All other countries unfortunately are not eligible for Medicare support but as long as you have travel insurance you’ll be covered!

I WANT TO STAY IN SYDNEY FOR A WHILE, CAN YOU GUYS HELP ME FIND A PLACE?

We can give you all the best recommendations on what sites to look at when when trying to find a place to rent in Sydney and help you with the application process. During the meantime we are more than happy to book you extra nights at the hostel until you can move.  

> BOOK ULTIMATEOZ

  • MAKING YOUR BOOKING

    To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email. If you have a travel date in mind but you’re not ready to pay in full, you can secure your spot with a deposit. We’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.  Your final payment is due 45 days before your tour date and you will be sent an automatic reminder. You can make payments on your tour balance sooner or regularly via our website here.  A non refundable 5.25% booking processing fee applies to each booking. The amount is calculated based on the value of your booking.

  • BOOK OPEN DATED

    Book your Gap Year open dated if you have not decided on a tour date yet, but want to confirm your travel plans and secure a price. Once you have booked an open dated tour, you can book on to any available start date of your choosing, subject to availability. Book open dated here.

  • MEETING OTHER TRAVELLERS

    Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates! Join the conversation here.

  • BOOKING WITH CONFIDENCE

    Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date. Date changes are permitted without additional change fees up until 30 days before your scheduled tour date! Check out our full booking policy here

Travel Community
Travel Community

FAQS

CAN ANYONE BOOK ULTIMATEOZ?
WHAT DO I NEED TO PLAN BEFORE I LEAVE?
HOW FAR AHEAD SHOULD I BOOK?
I'M TRAVELLING ALONE. HOW WILL I MEET PEOPLE?
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I BOOK?
HOW DO YOU HELP ME FIND WORK?
HOW DO I BOOK?
IS AN AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED?
CAN ANYONE BOOK ULTIMATEOZ?

The UltimateOz Gap year package is designed for those planning a working holiday / gap year in Australia. The majority of our travellers are aged between 18 and 30.

There are various visa options available depending on your reason for travelling to Australia. If you are planning a Working Holiday, you must apply for a 417 or 462 Visa. You can still book UltimateOz on a Tourist Visa, but you will not be eligible for the Gap Year support elements of the package.

Keen to travel Australia on a tourist visa for a shorter period of time? Check out our 8-day Ultimate Sydney tour, still visiting Sydney icons, Bondi Beach and Port Stephens. This tour is ideal for those on a tourist visa and doesn't include any gap year elements.

WHAT DO I NEED TO PLAN BEFORE I LEAVE?

Travelling to Australia with UltimateOz is easy as! Here’s what you need to do:

HOW FAR AHEAD SHOULD I BOOK?

Departures do book out in advance so we recommend you book your UltimateOz package sooner rather than later.

If you're planning your trip last-minute, no worries! We'll do what we can to help you with your travel arrangements.

You can also secure your spot on UltimateOz with a non-refundable 20% deposit. The rest just needs to be paid 6-weeks prior to your trip departure date!

I'M TRAVELLING ALONE. HOW WILL I MEET PEOPLE?

UltimateOz is designed to help you make friends as soon as you arrive in Australia! Most people travelling with UltimateOz arrive alone and stay in touch with friends from the group for the rest of their trip. You’ll spend your first week having loads of fun and getting to know each other. After the UltimateOz week has come to an end, our crew can advise you on finding work/accommodation in Sydney or help you plan your travel adventure around Australia with your new mates. Chat to others travelling Australia via our Facebook group.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I BOOK?

Once you've booked your UltimateOz tour, we'll email you a confirmation along with some important information about your booking. Closer to your tour departure date we'll be in touch to provide you with all the information you'll need prior to your trip to Australia. When you've booked your flights, just let us know your flight number and we'll take care of the rest! 

HOW DO YOU HELP ME FIND WORK?

UltimateOz includes a 12-Month membership to our online job database - Travellers At Work!

During your first week in Sydney we'll give you valuable information about finding work in Australia. We'll share our tips on where to find work,  how to apply and what you can expect to earn!

We’ll provide you with access to the Travellers At Work job database, so you can begin applying for jobs at your earliest convenience. If at any time you need some guidance just swing by and have a one-on-one session with one of our in-house work and travel experts who can help you out in your job search! We'll review your CV and help you adapt your application to suit Aussie employers.

HOW DO I BOOK?

To book UltimateOz Gap Year, select your chosen departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour and where you can meet others booked onto your start date! Got a travel date in mind but not ready to pay in full? Choose to pay a non-refundable $300 deposit to secure a spot on your chosen departure date. Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!

 

CHECK DATES & BOOK

IS AN AIRPORT TRANSFER INCLUDED?

An airport shuttle on arrival is included for guests flying into Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD). During the booking process, or once you have booked your flights, supply us with your full flight details and we'll arrange your Sydney Super Shuttle to take you to the tour meeting point at WakeUp Central Hostel. You can arrive up to three days before your tour starts and we'll ensure a transfer is available to you. Closer to your tour start date we'll supply you with full details on where to meet your shuttle at the airport. If you do not receive this email at least one week before your tour then please contact us.

 

Please note that if you are flying into Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), an airport shuttle is not included — please contact us and we can advise on the best way to reach the meeting point.

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