This builds on the strong ties between Australia and one of Latin America’s fastest growing economies, and also expands upon the excellent market access gains and benefits under the Peru-Australia Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11).

The number of places available to Peru nationals under the Work and Holiday Maker program (subclass 462) is currently set at 100 places per year. From 2 January, the number of places will increase to 1,500.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman said the increase in the number of places available is part of a range of measures introduced in November to support farmers fill critical work shortages.

"The additional places will allow up to 1,500 young people from Peru each year to enjoy a 12-month holiday in Australia, during which they may undertake short-term work and study," Mr Coleman said.

"This arrangement will provide additional support to regional Australia by encouraging more workers to the areas that need them."

"While on their first visa, Peruvians may undertake specified work in regional areas to become eligible for a second Work and Holiday visa and extend their stay. From 1 July 2019, the option of a third year stay will also be available to them if they undertake six months of regional work in their second year in Australia."

"The success of this arrangement with Peru demonstrates the commitment of both countries to developing our bilateral relationship and is testament to our strengthening people-to-people links."

The Work and Holiday visa requires first-time Peruvian applicants to hold or be studying towards tertiary qualifications and to speak a functional level of English.

Australia’s Working Holiday Maker Program currently has arrangements in place with 42 countries.