1. What type of visa do I need?

Australian Working Holiday Visa

If you would like to obtain paid work during your programme you will need to obtain an Australian Working Holiday Visa. UK citizens aged 18-30 are eligible for an Australian Working Holiday Visa which enables holders to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months.  It costs around £150 and can take up to 4 weeks to process so we recommend getting the paperwork sorted well in advance of your departure. 

Australian Tourist Visa

If you don’t want to work in Australia you can get an Australian Tourist Visa.

For more information see the Travel & Visa section in the Need to Know area of our site.

2. Do I need to be an elite athlete?

Absolutely not! We cater for atheletes of all abilities.  We will obtain further information on your sporting ability once you have submitted your booking form. This will allow us to match you with a suitable club.

3. How can I find out more general information?

Hopefully, most key pieces of information are available on the website where you can download programme notes, prices and dates.  Our Need to Know section also contains lots of useful information.  If you have other questions or just want to have a chat, we’re always available either on the phone or via email.

We know that planning a trip overseas can be scary at times and there’s loads to think about. So don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need to discuss anything at all.

Working in Australia

You’ll be living close to lots of employment options like offices, shops, bars and restaurants. Contacts at your sport club might also help you to find coaching work.

In addition, your mentor will provide guidance on working in Australia but you should ensure you’re well prepared as the job market can be as competitive as the sports arena!

Club structure

Most of our swimming clubs in Australia have between 8-10 squads.  These squads span the full spectrum of ability from international, national and state through to intermediate and social squads.

As clubs have lots of members and a variety of squads they are able to accommodate swimmers of all abilities from elite to social.

Competitions and training

You will train 3-4 times per week and compete regularly at the weekends.  

Each club also offers high quality coaching and many have instructors who have worked with state and national swimming squads.  

In addition, a number of the swimming clubs have both indoor and outdoor pools and on-site gyms.  Swimmers going to Melbourne train at the aquatic centre which hosted the majority of swimming events during the 2006 Commonwealth Games. 

Out of the pool

With so many members, your club will be a hive of social activity.  There’ll be drinks after training and competitions, plus social events throughout the season – club nights and regular socials.  Many clubs also attend swimming competitions in other cities - a great chance to get to know your teammates whilst exploring a new part of Oz.

Swimming development

Our clubs are selected for their high quality coaching and facilities, helping you to return home as a much improved swimmer. If your performances are noted, you could also find yourself selected for a State representative squad – highly prestigious!

…and finally

What are you waiting for? Get out there and show the Aussies how it’s done!