As the successful applicants for the Best Job in the World Campaign prepare to get underway, Tourism Australia has revealed more than 70% of people who entered intend to get a working holiday visa here.
The tourism agency surveyed 15,000 of the 330,000 competition entrants and found that 72% intend to apply for an Australian working holiday visa, while 39% are seriously considering a working holiday in the next six months.
“In 2012, Working Holiday Makers contributed A$2.5 billion to the Australian economy, each spending on average in excess of A$13,000 during their stay," Tourism Australia managing director Andrew McEvoy said.
"The exposure this youth campaign has already provided for our country has been incredible and I have little doubt that these Best Jobs winners will inspire a whole new generation of young people to visit, work and explore our country.”
The six who made the grade are set to begin the best jobs in the world from today onwards.
"This has been an extraordinary competition, and these are no ordinary jobs. Together, they capture the broad appeal of our country and demonstrate why there really is nothing like Australia," McEvoy added.
French winner Elisa Detrez will report for duties as Queensland's Park Ranger today, working with tour operators on a six month program that will promote tourism in the state's national parks.
“We wish these talented young people well as they embark on an extraordinary and unforgettable six month experience," McEvoy said.
This week will also see Irish winner Allan Dixon take up the reins as the Northern Territory's Outback Adventurer while American Cameron Ernst becomes Virgin Australia's High Flyer this month.
Soon to follow is English winner Richard Keam as Western Australia's Taste Master, Brazilian Roberta Seba as Victoria's Lifestyle Photographer while South Australia's Wildlife Caretaker and New South Wales Chief Funster start their roles in December.
"They’ll come face to face with our magnificent landscapes and scenery, unique nature and wildlife, cosmopolitan cities, amazing food and wine, and a lifestyle the envy of the world. And they’ll be getting paid for it,” McEvoy said.
