Is now the time to leave your current job for a working holiday in 2023?

people2people • March 22, 2023

Are you considering taking a break from the daily grind and living abroad for a while? If so, 2023 could be the perfect year to embark on a working holiday in either Australia or New Zealand. A working holiday allows you to combine the experience of exploring a new country and culture with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. This blog post will discuss the many benefits of working holidays in Australia or New Zealand in 2023.

What Is a Working Holiday?
A working holiday is a period spent travelling and working abroad. It's a great way to experience a new culture, make new friends and gain work experience in a foreign country. Depending on the country you visit, you can apply for a special visa that allows you to stay and work for up to a year.

Visitors in Australia and New Zealand can apply for a Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa, which allows them to stay and work in either country for up to 12 months. This type of visa is open to people aged between 18-30 and will enable you to explore both countries while gaining valuable work experience. You can find work in many different industries, including hospitality, tourism, farming, and retail.

As we look ahead to 2023, there is no better time to visit Australia and New Zealand than right now! With the pandemic still ongoing in many parts of the world, travelling to these two beautiful countries will provide an opportunity to explore while safely away from the global health crisis. In addition to the current situation, 2023 offers some unique opportunities for visitors who are interested in taking a working holiday.

Australia and New Zealand have a strong economy, which means job seekers will find it easier to find employment and make their stay much more enjoyable. For example, many industries are looking for skilled workers, and those interested in exploring new career paths could benefit from taking on a working holiday. Additionally, both countries offer a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, from beaches and hikes to cultural experiences.

2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the Australia-New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement (ANZCERTA), which has opened up several doors for citizens of both countries. As part of this agreement, special work visas are available that allow people to stay in either country for up to 12 months while working. This is a great way to gain international experience and connect with potential employers, which could lead to future job opportunities.

Finally, Australia and New Zealand are incredibly diverse countries with various cultures and traditions that can be explored. Visiting in 2023 allows travellers to fully experience each country's unique offerings, including music festivals, art exhibitions, historical sites, and more. It's also the perfect time to take advantage of special offers and discounts on accommodation, activities, and tours around the year.

What are some of the best places to take a working holiday?
Australia and New Zealand are popular destinations for those looking to take a working holiday. Both countries offer stunning scenery, diverse cultures, and some of the best jobs.

Sydney is one of Australia's most popular cities to take a working holiday. The city is renowned for its rich cultural mix, outdoor activities, and entertainment options. For those looking for a more outdoor experience, there are also plenty of coastal areas to explore, like the Great Barrier Reef, Bondi Beach, and Byron Bay.

New Zealand is equally as attractive for those wanting to take a working holiday. With stunning landscapes, fantastic wildlife, and a great range of cities and towns, it's no surprise why so many people choose New Zealand as their working holiday destination. From Auckland's thriving business district to the incredible Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, there's something for everyone in New Zealand.

If you're looking for something different, consider South East Asia. Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam are popular destinations for those looking to take a working holiday. Whether you're looking for beautiful beaches or bustling cities, there's sure to be something that suits your taste.

What are the advantages of finding work on a working holiday?
A working holiday visa offers a great way to experience life in another country while gaining valuable work experience. As someone on a working holiday visa, you can stay for up to 12 months in Australia and New Zealand countries. During this time, you can work for an employer and gain real-world skills that you can use for future job prospects.

There are numerous benefits to finding work on a working holiday visa. Firstly, you can experience a new culture and explore a new country. Thus, it allows you to make friends worldwide and immerse yourself in another way of life.

Taking on a job while on holiday gives you a chance to earn money while travelling. Therefore, you can cover expenses such as accommodation, transport, and food while abroad. It can be especially beneficial when visiting Australia or New Zealand, where living costs can be high.

Taking on work during your stay allows you to gain valuable work experience and skills that will benefit you in the future. Not only will this help you develop your CV, but it will also broaden your professional network and knowledge. Working in a foreign country can give you a competitive edge when searching for employment back home.

Be sure to read up on the visa requirements for each country you're interested in visiting. Every country has different visa rules and regulations, so it's essential to know these before you begin your search. It can also be beneficial to create a resume highlighting the skills and experiences employers in that country are looking for. Finally, be prepared for interviews and job applications, as this is one of the essential steps in securing a job. With the proper preparation, you'll have no trouble finding work abroad in 2023!

2023 is the perfect time to embark on a working holiday in Australia and New Zealand. With many of the world's economies still recovering from the pandemic, this may be an excellent opportunity to take a break from your day-to-day life and experience some of the unique cultures and landscapes these countries offer. Whether you're looking for paid work or want to explore, plenty of activities suit everyone's needs.

Find the job you love I Find the right talent
Get in touch with people2people
Australia   I    United Kingdom

In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.

Recent articles

The Rise of Temp and Contract Hiring: A Win-Win in the UK Market

By Maddy Laing • May 19, 2025
As businesses continue to navigate economic uncertainty, temporary and contract hiring has emerged as a flexible and strategic solution in the United Kingdom. With companies needing to adapt quickly to shifting market conditions, this hiring model is proving increasingly relevant. Temporary roles are no longer just short-term fixes; they are playing a significant role in long-term talent strategies. According to Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, this hiring shift is being driven by caution around long-term commitments. "When businesses aren't sure about what the next few months look like, committing to a permanent role does sometimes feel like too much. That's when a temporary contract hire comes in." "Temps can be brought in really quickly, often within a day or even a couple of hours" In today’s landscape, agility is everything. Temp staff help businesses respond rapidly to seasonal demands, cover long-term absences like maternity leave, or support project-based work. Financially, this approach often proves cost-effective—companies only pay for the hours worked, avoiding many of the additional expenses tied to permanent roles. Host Liz Jones, UK Managing Director at people2people, explores both sides of the temp hiring equation. On the business side, it’s about flexibility, fast onboarding, and lower risk. For job seekers, it’s about opportunities to gain skills, expand networks, and even transition to permanent employment. Laing points out that despite the hesitation some candidates feel about temporary roles, the experience gained can be a major career booster. "You get the chance to build new skills, work in a different environment, work for a different team or company and learn new systems as well," she says. "That kind of experience can really make a difference in the long term and make you more marketable for permanent roles." Some temporary roles also offer higher pay due to urgent needs or niche skill requirements. And in many cases, exceptional temporary employees are offered permanent positions when companies want to retain their talent. For recruitment agencies, strong performers are often placed repeatedly across valued client accounts. Flexibility is another key advantage. For those between permanent jobs or seeking work-life balance, temporary roles offer the freedom to work for a few months and then take a break. And with longer placements, many temp workers receive the same benefits as permanent staff, including the possibility of remote work. As Laing summarises, "Versatile, efficient, and often comes with a lot of big opportunities. That's probably the most impressive thing we always see with temp and contract work."  In today’s dynamic market, overlooking temporary and contract roles might mean missing out on valuable career and business opportunities. Whether you’re an employer looking to stay agile or a job seeker navigating a transitional period, this hiring model offers real value and potential.

Temporary Hiring as Strategy: Why UK Businesses Must Rethink Flexibility in 2025

By Liz Jones • May 19, 2025
In today's rapidly evolving UK job market, businesses are re-evaluating how they approach hiring. With economic shifts, digital transformation, and workplace flexibility becoming more prevalent, temporary hiring is emerging not as a short-term fix, but as a strategic tool for long-term growth. On a recent PTP Live episode, host Hannah Slee and guest Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, discussed this very shift. The conversation focused on dismantling outdated myths around temp roles and spotlighting how companies can use them as a powerful workforce strategy. "Temp hires today can be a really big strategic fix" Temporary roles have traditionally been seen as a last resort—a bandaid solution to cover staff absences or urgent vacancies. But as Laing explains, the game has changed. "Because of massive changes around economic uncertainty, new regulations, even AI and digital transformations, the way temporary hires are looked at is really evolving." These roles now often bring in skilled consultants, project leads, and industry experts who opt for temp work due to the flexibility and variety it offers. Businesses are also using temp hiring as a way to test new positions or headcounts without the risk of permanent commitment. In effect, temp staff provide not only capacity but also fresh perspectives and innovation. Slee adds, "Temp talent isn't just a safety net. It's really a competitive advantage." Companies can onboard quickly, scale up efficiently during peak periods, and stay agile in times of change—all without the overheads associated with permanent roles. Moreover, the quality of temp candidates has seen a significant uplift. As Laing notes, "The quality of temp work and the quality of temp hires and jobs has also really changed for the positive." Far from being a fallback, temporary work can drive significant value and often leads to longer-term opportunities. Another rising trend is using temp roles as a pipeline for permanent hires. When a temporary employee proves to be a great fit, many businesses are keen to retain them permanently, turning a short-term solution into a long-term asset. Businesses that continue to view temp hires as a last resort may find themselves missing out on talent, efficiency, and adaptability. The smartest organisations are already integrating flexible hiring into their broader strategy, recognising that these professionals can fill immediate needs while fuelling innovation and growth. As Laing summarises, "If you're still thinking of temp hires as a last resort, then I definitely think you're really missing out on a lot of potential."  In a job market where 72% of professionals are considering a job change, it's clear that flexibility and strategic hiring are more important than ever. Whether you're navigating transformation, covering a gap, or planning for growth, now is the time to rethink the role of temporary staff in your business.

Job Hunting Abroad: Practical Steps for a Smooth Move to the UK

By Maddy Laing • May 19, 2025
As international travel opens up and more professionals seek overseas opportunities, finding work abroad remains a compelling yet complex challenge. For those eyeing a move to the United Kingdom, preparation is the critical factor that separates a smooth transition from a stressful one. While visa options are fairly accessible for Australians relocating to the UK, securing employment is often the real hurdle. According to Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, the initial excitement of moving abroad is quickly followed by the practical challenge of job hunting. "Doing your research before you arrive makes all the difference," she says, emphasising that preparedness is key to navigating the UK job market effectively. "Make sure you have your status set to the correct country" One of the first and most impactful steps a job seeker can take is updating their LinkedIn profile. Laing stresses that setting your job search status to the correct location—like London rather than your current city—helps recruiters find you. It provides visibility and signals intent. "LinkedIn is a huge advantage and a really big network people need to look into, especially when you're moving to a new job and looking for new work." Work eligibility is another cornerstone of successful job applications. As Laing points out, being able to clearly explain your visa status is essential. Recruiters and employers need immediate clarity on whether a candidate can be legally hired, and uncertainty here can lead to delays or lost opportunities. Connecting with local recruiters before arriving is another strategic move. Beyond job matching, recruiters offer invaluable market insights—like which roles are in demand, realistic salary expectations, and industry trends. "Even if you're not ready to apply just yet, those early conversations can set you up with better expectations and a clearer understanding of the landscape," says Laing. Preparation extends to researching local salaries, which may not match what candidates earn in their home country. Factors like cost of living, supply and demand, and economic shifts all play a role in salary levels. Laing notes, "Just because you earn a certain salary in a previous country, doesn't mean that you're going to earn that same salary where you're going." A personal and professional network is also invaluable. Reaching out to former colleagues, friends, or even LinkedIn connections can lead to opportunities that haven't hit the open market yet. Laing encourages prospective movers to engage with their network early: "Put a post out there, start to chat to people, connect on their posts, and opportunities may come through that way." Host Hannah Slee, Recruitment Manager at people2people, adds that the UK job market is showing cautious optimism. With employment up and vacancy rates stabilising, there's reason for hopeful candidates to be encouraged. While traditional sectors like retail continue to face challenges, areas such as tech, professional services, and immersive technologies are experiencing growth. That said, some challenges remain. Unemployment has slightly increased, and economic inactivity remains high, driven largely by longer-term health issues. These trends continue to shape talent availability and influence hiring strategies across sectors. If you're planning a move to the UK, the key takeaways are clear: start early, make use of digital tools like LinkedIn, be transparent about your work eligibility, and tap into local recruiter expertise. Aligning expectations with local realities and activating your network could make all the difference in your overseas job search. Laing concludes with a reassuring message: "If you're planning to move to the UK and to London, definitely we can help you with your job search or any questions that you may have." For professionals ready to embrace the UK job market, a proactive and informed approach will pave the way to success. 

Is Your Business Ready for the Financial Year? Strategic Hiring Insights

By Liz Jones • May 19, 2025
As the United Kingdom edges closer to a new financial year, businesses across the region are taking stock of their hiring strategies and workforce plans. A recurring theme is the importance of readiness, especially in a market where timing and preparation can make or break recruitment outcomes. According to recent insights, many companies remain uncertain about headcount budgets and future role requirements. This hesitation often stems from a lack of clarity in strategic planning, making it increasingly difficult to align recruitment with business goals. In today’s hiring landscape, the ability to plan ahead and forecast talent needs is no longer a luxury—it's essential. Recruitment experts are observing a notable shift. No longer are businesses simply approaching agencies with job specifications. Instead, they seek comprehensive market insights, including salary benchmarks and team structuring advice. This proactive engagement indicates that organisations are beginning to understand that recruitment strategy is deeply entwined with overall business success. "Strategic planning isn't just a financial thing" Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, highlights a common issue: "A lot of businesses do need to be prepared and think that they should be prepared. But once you actually dig into the details, especially around recruitment, there's usually some gaps that do need attention." Laing notes that businesses frequently fall into a reactive hiring mode, only deciding on needs once the new quarter has begun. This often results in top candidates being snapped up by more prepared competitors. "When you do recruit within a reactive process, chances are that the top candidate's already gone," she says. The shift towards strategic recruitment is echoed by Liz Jones, UK Managing Director at people2people, who notes, "Businesses aren't just coming to us with job specs. They're asking for market insights, salary trends, even advice on team structure. That early planning really makes such a difference." To combat recruitment pitfalls and build stronger hiring frameworks, both experts advocate for a structured approach. The first step is to review past recruitment patterns: which roles were hardest to fill, where growth occurred, and where gaps still exist. This data provides a solid foundation for future hiring plans. Next, it’s crucial to align hiring goals with business objectives. Whether expanding into a new region or launching a new product, understanding the type of team needed to support these initiatives is key. Laing advises, "Make sure that they are matching and in alignment... what kind of team will you need to support this and how is that going to be different to what you may have hired last year?" Retention also plays a critical role. Planning is not solely about acquiring new talent but also about keeping existing staff engaged and in the right roles. As Jones points out, "Maybe you don't need to hire many if you're investing in developing your current team." Final advice for businesses looking to stay ahead in the financial year? Collaboration. Laing stresses, "Don't plan in isolation... talk to your internal recruitment team, talk to hiring managers... and even some of your current employees." The more perspectives gathered, the stronger and more effective the hiring strategy. In a competitive market like the UK, strategic recruitment planning isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. With the financial year fast approaching, now is the time for businesses to shift gears, adopt a proactive stance, and ensure that their hiring strategy supports long-term growth.

Employee Monitoring: Is Your Oversight Strategy Hurting Retention?

By Liz Jones • April 16, 2025
Over half of UK employees would consider quitting if they discovered their employer was monitoring them, according to recent research. With 85% of businesses admitting to tracking screen activity and website usage, employee trust is at risk. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones explores the impact of surveillance on workplace culture, stress, and retention. Learn how to strike the right balance between oversight and autonomy, with practical strategies to build a trust-first culture that supports both performance and wellbeing. Is your business protecting productivity—or pushing your top talent away? Read more to find out.

Latest Media Features

Get in touch

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us