TBM Staff - Mumbai About 40,000 applications have been submitted in just two weeks for 1,000 spots under Australia’s new Working Holiday Maker visa programme, Australian Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite said on Monday.
The visa, which allows Indians aged 18 to 30 to live, work, and study in Australia for up to 12 months, marks a key step in strengthening ties between the two nations, he said at the launch event of Australian Working Holiday Maker programme.
The visa ballot process opened on October 1 and will close by the end of the month. Afterward, successful candidates will be randomly selected, and those chosen can begin their stay in Australia early next year, he said.
The Working Holiday Maker visa offers young Indians an opportunity to get to know Australian culture and gain work experience across various sectors, Mr Thistlethwaite said.
Many applicants are expected to work in hospitality and agriculture. They will also have the option to pursue short courses or improve their English skills, he said.
The assistant minister highlighted the growing partnership between India and Australia and said the visa initiative reflects their close and growing relationship. Australia has nearly one million citizens of Indian heritage.
An official aware of the development told PTI that the programme will run every year. “The (Australian) Prime Minister used his experience and friendship with the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, to ensure improved and increased opportunities for young people from both communities to experience each other’s cultures,” said Mr Thistlethwaite.
