A new Work and Holiday Maker (WHM) arrangement will allow up to 100 young Mongolians and 100 young Australians each year to enjoy a 12-month holiday in each other’s country, during which they may undertake short-term work and study.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, Alex Hawke, signed WHM agreements with Mongolia and Brazil today, the first since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Working holiday makers support regional Australia by providing local businesses with access to more workers. Working holiday makers often fill labour gaps in agriculture, hospitality and healthcare, supporting critical industries and contributing to the Australian economy.

“This reciprocal visa arrangement with Mongolia highlights the vibrant relationship between our two countries,” Minister Hawke said.

“Australia and Mongolia have much in common. We share democratic values, cooperate on issues such as regional security—and we are committed to further developing our people-to-people links,” he said.

Australia has a prosperous Mongolian community numbering about 6,500 people, and more than 600 Mongolians have studied here on an Australia Awards scholarship since 1993.

Australians have a long history of volunteer work in Mongolia, where there is also a significant Australian businesses community.

“This arrangement will deepen our ties through the immersive experiences that come from cultural exchange,” Minister Hawke said.

For more information visit https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au