Find Quick and Easy Work as a Backpacker in Brisbane background

Find Quick and Easy Work as a Backpacker in Brisbane

By Stitch Hire |

As international travel returns to Brisbane after COVID, the demand for hospitality workers is greater than ever. This bustling city offers a wealth of opportunities for backpackers seeking quick and easy work. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide to finding a hospitality job in Brisbane, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant Australian city.

1. Get the Right Visa and Certifications

Before you start your job search, ensure you have the correct visa to work in Australia. Most backpackers opt for the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) or the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462). These visas allow you to work for up to 12 months, with a maximum of six months per employer.

Additionally, consider obtaining the following certifications to increase your employability in the hospitality industry:

  • Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA): A mandatory certification for those serving or selling alcohol in Australia.

  • Responsible Service of Gambling (RSG): A necessary certification if you plan to work in a venue that offers gambling services.

Waitress helping customers

2. Create a Compelling Resume

Tailor your resume to highlight your transferable skills and relevant experience in the hospitality sector. Include any customer service, communication, and teamwork experiences that demonstrate your ability to excel in a hospitality role. Don't forget to mention your RSA and RSG certifications if you've obtained them.

3. Start Your Job Hunt

Brisbane has numerous hospitality job opportunities, especially as the industry rebounds from the pandemic. Begin your search by:

  • Visiting popular job search websites like Seek, Indeed, and Gumtree.

  • Joining Facebook groups dedicated to hospitality job listings in Brisbane.

  • Networking with fellow backpackers and locals to learn about job openings.

  • Walking around the city and handing out resumes to bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Searching for jobs on smartphone

4. Be Flexible and Persistent

The key to finding quick and easy work as a backpacker is being flexible and persistent. Be open to different types of roles within the hospitality industry, such as bartending, waiting tables, or working in a hotel. Apply to multiple positions and follow up with potential employers to increase your chances of success.

5. Prepare for Interviews

Once you've secured an interview, research the company and its values. Prepare to answer behavioural questions that assess your ability to handle challenging situations in a hospitality setting. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, and don't forget to mention your certifications and visa status.

Man holding coffee

As Brisbane's hospitality industry experiences a post-COVID resurgence, there's never been a better time for backpackers to find quick and easy work in this dynamic city. By obtaining the right visa and certifications, crafting a compelling resume, and persistently searching for job opportunities, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding experience in Brisbane. Happy job hunting!