Young Brits swarm to Australia

The number of younger Britons travelling to Australia on 12-month Working Holiday Visas has increased in recent months by 20 per cent.

For the period of July through December 2008, the Australian Department of Immigration issued 20,851 working holiday visas, as compared with 17,327 during the same period in the previous year.

Working Holiday Visas are available to British citizens between the ages of 18 and 30, allowing them to travel and work in Australia for one year. If they meet certain criteria they may apply for a one-year extension, remaining in Australia for two years.

Tourism Australia is crediting its recent marketing campaign for the sharp rise in arrivals. The advertisements promote the fun of picking fruit and pulling pints while enjoying the many attractions of the country.

It is not clear, however, if the increase in arrival numbers is attributable to the appeal of Australia or is a signal that young Britons are seeking to escape the harsh economic realities of the UK.

In any case, the numbers are good news for Australia’s tourism industry, which has seen a decrease in overseas arrivals due to worsening global economic conditions.