I'm an Aussie, so my perspective is a bit different... but yes, it's possible to save money here and then travel onwards.

Hey Emzywemzypops,

I used my work address to set up my tax file number, then let my employer know that it would be arriving in their mail. As for the bank account, I banked with Commonwealth and was able to set up an account and transfer money into it before I got there. Then once I arrived, I stopped at my local branch with my correct paperwork and they finished setting it up. I didn't have an address at first either, but the ladies at the bank were kind enough to let me use the bank's address until I could get my own.

Hey! I'm thinking of getting a WHV next year as part of bigger travel plans but one thing that I've struggled to work out is how you get a tax number and bank account set up when you are living in a hostel to start with (I.e. No real address)? I'd like to get a house share type set up once I'm working but it feels a bit like a chicken and egg situation! I'd be super grateful for the advice of those that have done it and how they managed!

Thanks!

Hey travelgal5,

I spent last year on a Working Holiday in Australia and I loved it! I had a job lined up before I went, but you probably won't have any problem finding one once you get there--I work in hospitality, and there are definitely tons of jobs in that field. Gumtree.com and Seek.com.au are good places to check for jobs, and there are plenty of places that post backpacker jobs as well.

I had no problem saving up my money to do some travelling--the cost of living was higher, but I thought it was totally manageable. There are heaps of cool things to see and do, so give yourself plenty of time--in general I thought people were really friendly, and I'm already looking forward to going back!

Fraser Island and swimming with the whale sharks in Exmouth were some of my