Emilia came to Australia from Chile on a working holiday visa, hoping to improve her English, save money and experience life in a new country. She arrived with limited knowledge of Australia’s laws or work culture and no close contacts—only an online acquaintance who had helped her prepare for her English test.
Her first impressions of Australia were positive: she felt safe, especially compared to Chile, where crime made everyday activities like using a phone in public risky. She was also struck by the country’s multiculturalism, which helped her feel less alone and more confident in practicing English.
Emilia’s journey took her to Townsville, where she hoped to complete the 88-day regional work requirement. But finding fair and safe work proved difficult. One hostel she stayed in housed both backpackers and former inmates and she quickly realised the environment wasn’t safe. She moved to another place and found a job, but was paid in cash at below minimum wage.
When her wages were withheld, Emilia contacted the Fair Work Ombudsman. With the help of a free translator and screenshots of her pay agreements, she successfully recovered her unpaid wages. But the experience left her shaken.
“I stayed because I thought it wouldn’t happen again,” she said, “but I could feel something wasn’t right. People weren’t honest.”
Despite completing her 88 days, Emilia struggled to find stable work. Many jobs offered low pay or cash-in-hand arrangements. She saw friends juggling three jobs just to get by. Reflecting on her experience, she said, “I didn’t know anything at the time. My English wasn’t strong and I didn’t know my rights.”
Emilia believes the working holiday visa system needs reform. “It’s not fair,” she said. “I was lucky to have proof and support, but many people don’t. There should be more regulation and better information for people before they arrive.”
Now living in Sydney on a student visa, Emilia works in early childhood education, her field back in Chile. She feels more confident, fulfilled and connected to her work. Her goals have shifted from saving money to personal growth. “I’ve learned more in three years than I did in my thirties,” she said.
She’s also found joy in the everyday: walking to the beach to watch the sunrise, going trekking on weekends and learning about Aboriginal culture through her work. Her childcare centre actively includes Aboriginal educators and families, creating space for cultural learning and respect.
Emilia’s advice to others considering a working holiday visa is clear
“Know your rights. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Build a good network around you. And try to balance work with the holiday, it’s meant to be an adventure.”
