1. What is this program? This program is designed for anyone aged 18 – 35 who is eligible for a working holiday visa and is wanting to have seasonal job at a hotel, resort or restaurant in one of Canada’s tourism communities.

2. What employers do you work with? We are partnered with over 50 hotels, resorts, ski resorts, golf clubs, mountain biking parks, restaurants, tourism activity providers and retails outlet through Western Canada (Alberta and British Columbia). We have some East Coast resorts available during the summer.

3. What is the difference between a hotel and a resort? Our hotel partners are generally in tourism communities surrounded by other supporting businesses. Resorts tend to be more isolated but manage all their own amenities so have a wider range of jobs available and are primarily focussed on winter or summer sports activities.

4. What kind of people are you looking for? Positive, happy, outgoing, hardworking, flexible, able to follow instruction and able to communicate effectively. Customer service experience is a plus as is any relevant education, experience and skills.

5. What jobs can I apply for? We have many different jobs available including front of house, guest services, retail, food and beverage, kitchen, cleaning and back of house. The job you are offered will depend on your experience, English level and attitude. If you have experience doing the job in your home country and you have good English and positive, guest cantered attitude then we can generally get you a similar job to that in Canada. We will let you know the roles we think you may be most suited for in your consultation. The role you are offered is the role you will do for the season.

6. Can I ask for a promotion or advance in the company? You are expected to keep your same job for the whole season. The first 3 months of your term with the host company are considered a probation period and you may not apply for a change of position. You may be able to pick up some part time hours in other departments if your department happens to be slow or there is increased demand in another department. You can usually apply for a new job at the end of the season for the following season.

7. How long do I need to work for? You must be available for at least one full season.

8. What are the seasons? Summer Season starts in May or June and lasts until September or October (depending on the employer) Winter Season starts in November or December and lasts until April or May (depending on the employer)

9. Can I go work for the whole year?
Your working holiday is usually valid for 12 months and you are able to work for one employer for that full period. Most seasonal employers will employ you for a season and then at the end of the season you may apply to come back for the summer season.

10. How much will I earn? At least minimum wage . https://www.retailcouncil.org/quickfacts/minimum-wage-by-province

11. How many hours per week will I work? You are considered a seasonal full-time employee meaning hours are not guaranteed. However hours generally range from 20 – 40 hours per week. The average across a season is about 32-35. You will be given a roster (that is subject to change) by your manager 1 or 2 weeks in advance of your shifts. You are expected to be available on the weekends, US and Canadian Public Holidays and evenings when the hotel or resort is busiest

12. Where will I live? We will assist you in finding staff accommodation or student accommodation near the hotel or resort. Accommodation rooms are usually shared to reduce costs.

13. What does accommodation cost? Budget up to $650 per month for a shared room in a busy tourism location or ski resort.

14. Can I go with a friend or partner? Yes, we have a lot of success with friends/partners getting placements at the same hotel or resort or the same resort town.

15. Will I get time off work? Yes, you will get free-time and days off to enjoy the amazing nature and activities in the areas. However you must be available to work when it is busy. This may means some weeks you work every day and other weeks you may get more days off.

16. Can I use the hotel facilities? This depends on the hotel / resort however the general rule is the more remote the resort the more facilities you can use. Resorts usually include activities such as ski or mountain pass.

17. Can I have a holiday? You are expected to be available for the whole season and any holidays should be taken before or after the peak season.

18. What are the grooming policies? Hair must be neat. For females, hair must be tied back when it is a safety issue. For males, hair must be above the collar and cut to mid-ear length at the sides. Jewellery should be worn in moderation. Women may wear one earring of the same size in each ear. Men may wear one small stud or ring. Other facial jewellery or exposed body piercings must be removed while at work, such as tongue rings or studs. Personal hygiene is important and aftershave and perfume should be kept to a minimum.

19. What temperatures can I expect during the season? Canadian summers may reach 30 degrees Celsius but on average it is about 20 - 25 degrees. Canadian Winters average temperature is about 5 degrees Celsius in most resort locations but can be also low as -30

20. Will I need to take out travel insurance? It is compulsory for all foreign applicants to purchase travel insurance covering, them for the duration of their employment at the resorts, regardless of whether or not you think you may be eligible for company benefits,

21. How do I get to the resort? When you receive your job offer you will be given advice on how to get to the resort and the cost.

22. What if I am not offered a placement? We reserve the right to cancel you from the program in accordance with our refund conditions if you fail 3 interviews.

23. What if I am offered a placement I don't want? If you are offered a placement and do not wish to accept it there are no refunds of your deposit. If you are offered a placement your deposit will go toward your program fees.

24. What happens if I lose my placement, or I am fired? If you are fired with good reason as per your employment contract with the company, you will are free to stay in the country however INTERNeX holds no responsibility for finding you another position or any other support.

25. What if I accept the placement but do not like it? You can write a letter to INTERNeX and explain the situation. If there is a valid reason for wanting to change locations, we will search other opportunities for you for an agreed administration fee.

26. What do things cost in Canada?
(Note: Prices are in Canadian Dollars and are subject to change at any time)
• Bus Pass to a resort: $100 - $200
• Damage Deposit for Staff Accommodation: Approximately $350 - $600 (up to one month)
• Accommodation during course of employment: $350 - $600 per month
• Uniform: Up to $300
• Groceries per week: Minimum $80 ($300 per month)
• Entrance to a club: $15
• Beer at a Pub / Club: $8-$10
• A Big Mac Burger: $6.00
• A Starbucks Tall Café Latte: $5.00
• Skis / Snowboard $450, Ski Boots / Snowboard Boots $450, Trousers & Jacket $450, Gloves: $150, Goggles: $200, Helmet: $200, Thermal Underwear: $100
• A 15% tip or gratuity should be added to all purchases at a restaurant or pub
• Season ski Pass to a resort $800 - $1800 depending on the resort (Included when working at a ski resort)

27. When should I apply for the program?
As far in advance as possible. If you already have a working visa you can apply up to 6 weeks before the start of the season. If you do not have a work visa already then you can apply up to 12 weeks before the start of the season. Larger winter resorts recruit 30+ weeks in advance of the winter season so the earlier you apply the more opportunities you have at larger winter ski resorts.

1. Where will I undertake my placement? With a hotel, Hostel, Campground, B&B, Restaurant or Tourism activity provider in New Zealand.

2. What companies do you work with? We work with hundreds of companies including all ranges of hotels, resorts, hostels restaurants, campgrounds, ski resorts, mountain biking and golf resorts, retail stores, cafes, car rental companies and franchise food stores: Every company has individual minimum requirements. More popular tourism regions have higher entry requirements.

3. What placements are available? All typical roles including Back of House (e.g Housekeeping, laundry), Kitchen (Chef, Cook, dishwasher) Food & Beverage (bartender, barback, server, hostels, runner) Maintenance, Guest Services, Retail and Front Office departments.

4. Can I specify a particular placement that I want to apply for? Keep in mind all positions have minimum requirements based on experience, education, English, level, the ability to undertake placement for a full season, personal grooming, additional languages spoken and general attitude. We cannot guarantee positions but please inform INTERNeX if you want to apply for a particular position and we will let you know if that may be possible.

5. Can I choose where I will work? Please inform INTERNeX if there is a specific location where you would like to work and we can determine if that may be possible. We cannot guarantee it.

6. What are employers looking for? In addition to meeting the minimum English requirement, staying at least one full season and having the experience is required, employers are also looking for self-sufficient, flexible, motivated, happy (smiley ) staff with excellent personal grooming, a passion for the tourism industry, and a “can-do” attitude.

7. How long am I expected to stay with the host company? You must commit to working until the end of the upcoming peak season or the terms of the contract you sign.

8. What are the key/peak seasons?
Most placements are made in the summer in New Zealand.
Summer: from between mid-September - mid November until the end of April
Winter: from late June / start of July until end of September (depending on snow conditions)

9. How much money will I earn? At least minimum prevailing wage, which is currently $20.00 NZD per/hour.

10. How many hours per week will I work? You are considered a seasonal full-time employee which means that your hours are not guaranteed and are determined by your employers. Hours vary according to company demands however the average is approximately 30 per week across a full season.

11. Can I ask for a promotion or advance in the company? Usually the job you are offered is the job you do for the full season. At the end of the season you can apply for a new job for the following season. Some hotels allow you to apply for other roles after 3 months.

12. How do I find accommodation when I’m working? This depends on location of your placement. Hostels, campgrounds and some hotels offer staff accommodation. When they do not, we will introduce you to our private accommodation providers or provide advice on where and how to find share house accommodation.

13. Is food included? Food is not included, however some campgrounds may provide meal allowance and some hotels may provide meals when there are no cooking facilities available. Some resorts have discounts on food at cafeterias and restaurants.

14. What things do I need to bring for my accommodation? We recommend all candidates to bring their own toiletries, sheets, blanket and pillowcases and a pillow unless told that the accommodation provider includes this.

15. Can I go with a friend or partner? Yes, this is possible, but you may need to be more flexible in terms of jobs and location choice.

16. What if I accept the placement but do not like it? We expect all candidates to go through a period of home sickness in the first month or so of the placement and expect a period of adjustment in this time. If after this first month you believe the placement is not what you expected, you can write a letter to INTERNeX and explain the situation. If there is a valid reason for wanting to change locations that fall outside the scope of your contract (example; abuse in the workplace) then INTERNeX will post or email you a request for change form. Once INTERNeX receives the request for change form INTERNeX will talk with the host company to ensure that the reason for change is valid. If the reason is valid then placement search will begin. When a suitable placement has been found then INTERNeX will inform your current employer that you are giving two week’s notice. Only then can you move location. If the reason for the request for change is not valid then there will be no replacement. Whatever you do ALWAYS speak to INTERNeX before you make any decisions. If you quit without following these steps INTERNeX will not offer any support or replacement. In All situations, 2 week’s notice must be given to an employer before departing the company.

17. What happens if I lose my placement or I am fired? If you are fired with good reason as per your employment contract INTERNeX holds no responsibility for finding you another position or any other support; however if you are fired for no good reason we will support you into finding a new position or moving you into another program.

18. When should I apply for the program? You should register your interest as soon as possible. The normal rule is 3 months in advance however we are flexible with this, depending on the current market need for employees. Often visas are scarce, so it is important to apply as early as possible.

19. Will I need to take out travel insurance? It is compulsory that all foreign applicants purchase and hold travel insurance prior to arriving at their destination. You must also ensure that your insurance covers you for any accidents in the workplace as well as for outside of the work place. INTERNeX is not responsible for any insurance claims, these must be raised with your insurance company.

20. What do I do when I arrive? Speak to your counselor about booking an arrival package in Auckland. This includes airport transfer, 3 nights hostel accommodation, breakfast and WIFI.

21. Will I need a tax number? Yes, we inform you how to get an IRD Number (New Zealand) during your arrival orientation.

22. How do I get to the work location? When your location and company has been decided you will be given a choice on arrival city and best way to get from that arrival port to that work location. The cost can range from $50 - $300 (depending on transportation prices).

23. What uniform is required? This depends on the position you are offered and will be advised when you receive your job offer. Food and Beverage staff usually require black pants, black shoes and a collared shirt. is also advisable to have a pair of non slip comfortable shoes if you are working in a back of house position. Some positions and some resorts may ask you to purchase some additional uniform (up to $200) however most resorts provide the majority of the uniform you will need. Some resorts may ask for a deposit on your uniform and this is returned when the uniform is returned in good condition. Some placements require you to be outside so in winter you may need to purchase thermal clothing and snow boots. All uniform requirements will be specified at the time of the placement offer.

24. Will I get time off work? Yes, you will definitely get free-time, however you are not guaranteed any holidays during your placement period. Should you need time away from the placement then you can request this from your manager. All time off should be requested when the hotel/resort is quiet, i.e. during the off season and not during the weekends or public holidays. Remember, the holiday times are the busy times in hotels and resort communities. More information will be covered in your personal employment contract with your employer.

25. What is the grooming policy of the companies? Hair must be neat. For females, hair must be tied back when it is a safety issue. For males, hair must be above the collar and cut to mid-ear length at the sides. Jewelry should be worn in moderation. Women may wear one earring of the same size in each ear. Men may wear one small stud or ring. Other facial jewelry or exposed body piercings must be removed while at work, such as tongue rings or studs. Personal hygiene is important, and aftershave and perfume should be kept to a minimum.

26. What do things cost? New Zealand is relatively expensive country to live in. You should be able to afford to pay for general living costs with your wages. Additional spending on luxuries should be spent with saving. If money is a factor in your placement decision, please inform INTERNeX and we can look for more remote locations which have cheaper living costs. Generally, the more remote you are placed the more chance there is to earn more than you spend as there are less costs for housing, transportation and going out.

27. What tax should I pay? Income Tax is the percentage of your income that is collected by the tax department. Personal income tax is payable at the time the income is earned, and when you work in New Zealand your employer should deduct tax at source at the required rate. If you have paid too much tax (or too little!) you should file an income tax return. The tax year ends March 31 every year. INTERNeX is not a registered tax agent and cannot give advice on tax however all information you require is available at http://www.ird.govt.nz/income-tax-individual/ or https://www.ato.gov.au

28. Will I get any kind of certificates after the internship? If you are good at work you may get a reference letter, not all companies offer them to casual workers, however if you complete school you get a certificate from the school and if you complete the internship you get a certificate from INTERNeX.

29. Can I do an INTERNeX Professional Internship, Au-Pair, Work & Travel or Farmstay, before or after my hospitality / tourism placement? Yes you can so long as your work visa allows this. Speak to your counselor prior to travel about this option as you may be eligible for a discount on your second placement.

30. Can I stay after the end of my contract? You can stay for as long as your work permit allows. Visas cannot be extended except under very strict conditions. Some employers may want to sponsor you at the end of your contract; however, this is between you and your employer.

1. Where will I undertake my placement? On a family run farm in locations such as Northland, The Hawkes Bay, The Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Taranaki, The Manawatu, Wairarapa, Nelson / Marlborough, Canterbury, The West Coast or Central / Southern Otago.

2. What types of farms are available? We have most types of farms available in New Zealand including Livestock Farm (growing animals e.g. Sheep & Beef), Dairy Farm (milking cows),
Horse Farm (training and developing horses for show-jumping, polo or racing (for very experienced riders ),
Family Farm (I do not mind what the family do so long as it is a friendly family environment)

3. Can I specify the type of farm I want to be placed at? Yes, you can certainly tell INTERNeX what particular style of farm you would prefer however depending on the season and availability your request may not be possible.

4. What are the best times to come to a farm in New Zealand? Placements are available all year round. However, the best time of year to stay on a farm is from September to April.

5. When can I arrive at the farm? Farmstay placements start weekly on a Tuesday (excluding period between the 5th December – 15th January). On some occasions you may need to spend some additional nights at the hostel if your host family require you to arrive later. You are responsible for any costs for food and accommodation etc during this time.

6. What if I want to travel when I first arrive in New Zealand? You must let INTERNeX know if you would like to travel prior to starting your farm placement so we can delay your start date and let your host family know.

7. How many hours per day will I work? You will generally work 24 hours per week on the farm and help with an additional 10 hours of domestic / household duties. You may negotiate with the family to work longer.
8. What I am I expected to do on the farm? There is a lot of work to do on the farm and it can change week to week, month to month, year to year. You will discuss what is required of you with the family at the start of your placement an throughout your time at the farm. Jobs may include mending and building fences and mowing the lawns, feeding the animals, spraying the weeds, moving cattle, gardening, painting, milking the cows, mucking the stables etc. You will be given a detailed list of what will be included in your placement.

9. What type of domestic / household chores will I help with? Domestic / household chose include everyday chores that are required in any household; for example; preparing and cooking meals, cleaning and washing your clothes, vacuuming, keeping your bedroom and living areas tidy, going grocery shopping, washing the car, feeding the pets, general gardening etc.

10. How long am I expected to stay at the farm? Those who are taking the program as a cultural experience can apply for a 4 – 12 week stay. Those with experience with horses or farming can apply to stay for 4 – 24 weeks (subject to the maximum time allowed on visa). Those wishing to extend their stay should contact INTERNeX and with approval from their farm host an extension can be arranged.

11. What kind of people are you looking for? Outgoing, sociable, good at communicating with others and those who really want to learn about the New Zealand Farm life. Some families require a certain skill set such as horse-riding experience or ability to use a tractor etc. Some families require no experience. Most of all families want happy people.

12. Can I go with a friend or partner? In some situations it may be possible to be placed with a friend, however hosts tend to prefer only one farm intern at a time. In these situations INTERNeX will try to place friend within 100kms of each other and if possible we recommend couples/friends purchase a car so you can organise to catch up on weekends and days off.

13. What happens if I am not offered a placement? If you are not offered a position you will be offered a full refund.

14. What if I am offered a placement I don't want? We make every attempt to make sure the placement meets your requests based upon your experience and what is available in New Zealand, therefore, unfortunately if you are offered a placement and do not wish to accept it there are no refunds.

15. What if I want to leave the farm? We expect all Interns to go through a period of home sickness in the first month or so of the placement and expect a period of adjustment in this time. After this first month if you believe the placement is not what you expected, you must contact INTERNeX and explain the situation. This can be over the phone but we must also receive this in writing via email. If there is a valid reason for wanting to change locations for valid reasons (e.g. the family does not include you in any family activities) then INTERNeX will undertake due diligence with the farm to ensure that the reason for change is valid. If the reason is valid then placement search will begin. When a suitable placement has been found then INTERNeX will inform the farm and arrange for you to move location. If the reason for the request for change is not valid then there will be no replacement. Whatever you do ALWAYS speak to INTERNeX before you make any decisions. If you quit without following these steps INTERNeX will not offer any support or replacement. Please note a replacement farm can take up to 3 weeks.

16. What happens if the farmer asks me to leave? If you asked to leave for good reason, e.g. taking the horse or motorbike without asking, then INTERNeX holds no responsibility for finding you another position or any other support; however if you are asked to leave for no good reason we will support you into a new position. This replacement can take up to 3 weeks and during this time farm interns will often go off and do some travel.

17. What weather can I expect during the season? The South Island is generally colder than the North Island; however New Zealand summers are typically mild across the country. Temperatures may reach 30 degree celsius but on average it is about 25 degrees. New Zealand winters are much colder in the South Island with temperatures reaching -5 degrees but in general the temperature stays above zero. Temperatures generally staying above 5 degrees in the winter in the North Island. Typically expect temperatures from 10 degrees to 30 degrees depending on the season. Note, houses in New Zealand may not have as much insulation or central heating as you are used to so when it is cold outside it may be cold inside.

18. When should I apply for the program? At least 8 weeks prior to your start date, INTERNeX are happy to accept applications up to 4 weeks prior to the start date on special request.

19. When will I receive my placement? At least 2 weeks prior to the start date of your placement.

20. Will I need to take out travel insurance? Yes, it is compulsory for all foreign applicants to purchase travel insurance covering them for the duration of your employment and that the insurance covers accidents in the work-place. If you are hoping to ride a horse while you are in New Zealand ensure your travel insurance covers this for any injury.

21. What do I do when I arrive in New Zealand? INTERNeX provides airport transfers to downtown hostels for short term stays in Auckland or transfers to Homestay (if you are studying). You will have an orientation on the next business day after arrival.

22. Will I need a bank account and tax number? Yes, you will be required to open a New Zealand bank account and apply for an Inland Revenue Department Number. The INTERNeX team will assist you with this as part of your arrival orientation. Please bring your passport, work permit, bank statement with your home residential address on it and evidence of your tax number from your home country. Without these we cannot open your bank account.

23. How far is it from Auckland to the farms? New Zealand takes about 24 hours to bus from one end to the other, so it depends on where in New Zealand you are placed. Options include direct bus, backpacker bus or flying. We will let you know the best way to get to the farm. We will arrange for the famer to pick you up from the nearest bus station to the farm.

24. How much does it cost to get to the farm? This will depend on the location of the farm and your mode of transport e.g. bus, train, airplane etc. Therefore it may cost between $50 and $200.

25. Where do I stay while I am at the farm? Most farmers will have a spare room in the farm house. In some cases the farmer will have a recreational vehicle, an additional house or an outhouse (sleepout) area where you will sleep. Some horse farms there are grooms quarters where you may sleep and eat.

26. What things do I need to bring for my accommodation? Prior to your departure INTERNeX will provide you with a packing list itemising the standard gear that you will need to pack. In most cases the farmer will have bedding for you. You will be required to have own riding gear. Pack any required medication to last throughout your entire stay in New Zealand.

27. What clothes should I bring? Clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as well as strong comfortable footwear. New Zealand sun is very hot as we have very little Ozone layer so make sure you bring a hat and sunglasses and wear sunscreen. You may want to bring riding helmet and boots but make sure they are very clean so they pass customs on arrival to New Zealand. When packing these in your suitcase you need to ensure they are very clean and keep them at the top of your case as New Zealand customer are very strict and will take them out to check them.

28. Will I get time away from the farm? Yes, this is possible, it must be negotiated with your family in advance.

29. Can I use the farm equipment? Use of farm equipment is always to the discretion of the farmer.

30. Is food included? Yes, you will be included in family meals and you will be expected to help in the kitchen and contribute with the cooking. If you want any snack food such as chocolate, coke, potato chips you will need to purchase this yourself. In regards to alcoholic drinks you must have permission from your host family to bring this to the farm, and also at your own expense. Any special dietary requirements, eg. Almond milk or gluten free bread are at your own cost.

31. Am I allowed to take a farmstay if I am vegetarian or vegan? You must be open to being on a non meat producing farm. You must be flexible and willing to put in additional effort in the kitchen to ensure your host family are not inconvenienced by your way of eating. It is most important that you help to make dinner and still eat with you host family, as dinner time is the ideal time to relax and get to know each other better by talking about your home, family. If there is certain food that you require outside of the staple diet and standard items of food in the families kitchen, then you are required to pay for this yourself. The family is not required to pay for any additional food to support your way of eating if it differs to theirs.

32. If I am vegetarian or vegan what type of farm can I stay on? If you are vegetarian or vegan you must be willing to stay on horticultural farm, organic farm or non animal farm. If you are a very experienced horse rider then you may be able to go to a farm with horses. This will be discussed in depth during your interview with the placement supervisor.

33. Can I do other INTERNeX programs before or after my farm placement? Yes, so long as you have the necessary work permits, visas, and are applicable to the program.

34. Can I stay in New Zealand after the end of my contract? You can stay in New Zealand for as long as your work permit allows. Visas cannot be extended except under very strict conditions.

1. What organisations do you work with? Although INTERNeX works with hundreds of companies internationally, we prefer to not list the specific names of the organisations we work with for a variety of reasons. Our host organisations trust our judgment in sending appropriate candidates to them after we have Pre screened them and found out about the candidate’s personality, language, educational background, compatibility and interests. Host organisations do not want to receive a lot of unsolicited placement requests due to their relationship with us and since they rely on us concerning the translation of educational certifications and immigration issues.

2. What if I really want my placement to be with a specific organisation? Though it is possible that we work with the host organisation that you have requested, unless you are certain that the host organization is EXACTLY what you are looking for, it is better to work together with INTERNeX to find what you are really looking for based on several factors including their capacity to offer an appropriate project/tasks and supervision.

3. What is the ideal duration of placement? In our experience, most practicums require a semester (20 – 24 weeks) to complete. This means you can complete a relevant project for your host organization and have the time you need to develop the relationships and trust you will need to gain all of the information you require.

4. What size host organization is best to do a placement in? In our experience, the larger the company, the easier it is to get lost in their infrastructure. Though this is not always the case, many large companies are reluctant to offer candidates interesting projects due to inability to effectively manage the projects, internal bureaucracy and corporate liability. Smaller companies allow candidates to become more involved at the level that is required for the completion of your project.

5. What’s happens after the initial consultation? Once we have confirmed the direction of your placement, we will then negotiate with host organizations on your behalf to “build” an opportunity for you. This will take some time, mainly because we assess our host organizations and placements on numerous factors such as: suitability of the industry/organization/project outline/personnel, timeframe of the placement, personality compatibility, necessary supervision and supervisory capacity/requirements, physical space, time of year, organization internal culture/dynamics, past experiences with the organization, and other factors. If required, we will then arrange a telephone, Zoom, or in person interview with the host organization, following which they will confirm placement. In some instances, there may be more than one interview. Your representative or INTERNeX will then forward you the confirmation of placement.

6. What should I expect when I start my placement? The first week or two is always a challenge… your host organization is getting used to you and you are getting used to them. You will receive a general introduction to the organization on the first day as well as an introduction to the relevant staff and your supervisor, but don’t be afraid to introduce yourself… Remember it will take time for you to build up the necessary trust in order to really get the access you need for your project

or practicum. Please document any issues and let your placement manager know what they are. We can assist you with some strategies to successfully complete your

7. What do I have to wear to my host organisation? Generally, your placement manager can advise you on this, however, as a general rule, it is better to be overdressed rather than underdressed until you get familiar with the office. If you have formal meetings with partners or clients or are in a position that will involve exposure to clients or in a traditional office you will be required to wear a suit. One day per week, most companies have a “Casual” day where less formal clothing may be worn. If in doubt, ask the staff or your supervisor.

8. How can I better integrate into my host organisation? The organization’s employees have more than likely worked together for months or even years. You are new to their environment, and new to their corporate and regional culture. Take the initiative and speak with them and go to events the company has planned... Even invite them to lunch; or go if they invite you. You will be surprised at how receptive most people are to this.

9. What should I do if I have a problem with a particular staff member of supervisor? Give the staff and your supervisor the benefit of the doubt… Maybe it is just your perception. Remember that you are living in another culture and workplace stresses and communication (including body language) are different here. Be aware of this and try to be sure there is a problem. The first step is to discuss the issue with the person directly… if this does not seem like a good option, contact your placement supervisor IMMEDIATELY.

10. How can I get time to speak with my host supervisor? Your supervisor has a job too. More than likely he or she is a manager or in a responsible position that also needs their attention. Talk to other staff or try to do some research on your own… or write down things you have found different in the host organizations environment. Host organizations reward initiative and an easy going approach. You should be patient while your supervisor organizes time in their schedule for you. Your placement manager can also speak with the supervisor in the organization if you have difficulty arranging meeting times.

11. Are all placements the same? Your placement is YOURS. Remember your placement is determined based on a lot of individual factors including industry, organization, your professional background/experience, personality, language level… etc. Each situation and each host organization… just like each person is FUNDAMENTALLY different. We place hundreds of participants each year… and this means we run hundreds of individual programs!

12. How long will it take me to get to my host organization everyday? Depending upon your industry choice placements may be anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour (in some cases, more) to commute from your accommodation. Many people commute up to 3 hours per day. Although we try to keep travel time as short as possible, there is the chance that in order to do what you want you will have to commute.

13. What happens if I quit? You MUST contact your placement manager before you decide to cancel your program. The host organization has made arrangements for you which may have cost them substantial time and money. If you don’t fulfill your obligations to their schedule and under the terms of your placement agreement you will not be supported for replacement nor receive a refund of any fees.

14. What should I do if I want to terminate my placement or change to another company? BEFORE you make any decisions regarding the termination or change of your placement you MUST speak to your placement supervisor at INTERNeX. This means you shouldn’t tell your supervisor in your host organization that you want to terminate or change your placement until you speak with INTERNeX. Usually issues are very easily resolved either with the indirect or in some cases direct involvement of your placement supervisor. INTERNeX is here to assist you but we can’t help if you don’t let us know what is going on. It is far better to resolve the issue with your existing host than to be replaced which may take a number of weeks, and there is no guarantee that the new situation is better. You also MUST have a concrete and well documented reason to request a change or to prematurely terminate your placement.

15. How can I contact my placement manager? Although we expect a weekly update on the status of your placement, you may also feel free to contact your supervisor by telephone, email, or in person. In fact, if there is ANY issue, even issues you feel you can resolve on your own, no matter how small, we require that you contact us to inform us of the situation. Since this program is for mature, independent self-directed individuals, if we don’t hear from you, we assume that everything is going well… We are here to make sure that you are having the best possible experience and to support you when you need our assistance. We won’t know unless you contact us.

16. What are the hours I have to spend at my host organisation? Most host organizations are open from 9am until 5pm, and mirror the working week. Organizations do differ and the hours and/or schedule may be more or less depending upon the organization and their industry. If your organization expects you to be present longer then these hours or if you need more time in the organization per day to complete your projects/tasks, please contact your placement supervisor after you have discussed the issue directly with your supervisor in the company.

17. How can I get the information I need for my projects and tasks? Sometimes this can be difficult, particularly when you are dealing with a different culture and requesting private information about an organization you do not work for. This will take time and confidence which can only be created through mutual trust with the staff and your supervisor. Have patience, be flexible, and build their trust. It is important to get the staff’s “buy in” for your project and it is a good idea to explain to them at the earliest opportunity (informally as well as formally) what the benefits to the organization will be by completing your project.

18. How long does it take to get things done? Organizations that have markets or partners in other cities are dealing with different time zones. This slows a lot of processes down. Also remember that the main people you are dealing with are managers that often have a limited amount of time to devote to your projects. Even other staff has full time tasks that require their attention. There is a very real feeling that “time is money”, especially in some professions, so you will have to learn how to function in this environment. Be patient and try to collect other information while you wait.

19. What happens if a project I am working on is off schedule? Although it CAN be preferable to have a clear timeline for your project, it is often better for you and the host organization to take a flexible approach. Timelines may often change, and the type and extent of the information available to you may also alter over time as the project evolves. You may also find that items you thought were important when you began the original outline have become less important than other emerging factors and may not fit into the time you have to complete the project. You must be flexible and an acrobatic time/project manager.

20. What about the host company structure? Each host organization is different, and there are a lot of smaller organizations that may not have a tight infrastructure. This is partially due to the way business is done here and our “corporate culture”. Go with the flow, and see if it really is too difficult to deal with. It could just turn out to be another thing you learn from during your placement.

21. What will my tasks be? Although many of your activities and/or projects will be outlined prior to your practicum, often you will be given more responsibilities and tasks/projects as your practicum progresses. In addition to any required tasks/projects from your university, what you do will largely depend on the evolving situation within the host organization and “what comes up”; this is one of the main reasons companies tend to focus heavily on the traits flexibility and initiative for any successful practicum. All host organizations are aware of the requirements of the program and that you will need sufficient space for you to complete your practicum. This however can mean that you may have to use a variety of desks/tables, and maybe even the conference room at times. You may also be required to undertake some of the activities at home or off site. Generally, we prefer that you spend as much time as possible in the organization in order to ensure you can observe all the day-to-day functioning’s of the organization to better complete your project, but this is not always the case since the host may have new employees or their own profit generation activities they must accommodate first.

22. What should I do if I want to take some time off? This is not normally a problem, but if your placement is 8 weeks or less, you should inform the supervisor of this BEFORE you start your placement. If you are on a placement longer than 8 weeks, you must see if your planned vacation fits into the host organization schedule, and notify your supervisor at least 4 weeks in advance. Also let your placement manager know in case they need to contact you during your absence from work.

23. How can I get a letter of recommendation form my host organsiation? Under normal circumstances, all participants will get a letter of recommendation from their host organization. The only times where it may not be possible to get one is if you under performed at the organization or if it is a policy not to issue such letters. You should let your host organization supervisor know that you would like a letter of recommendation at least 2 weeks before you finish your placement. You can also ask other staff if they could write one for you. This is probably the most valuable document that you will obtain from your placement so don’t forget to ask!

24. What happens after I finish my practicum? A week before you complete your practicum, you need to contact your placement supervisor and ask for a Practicum Completion Certificate. Before you pick up the certificate from the INTERNeX office, you are required to write a page of testimonial. The testimonial should cover the description of your company, what you have done in the company, your general impression of the whole practicum experience and your feedback.

1. What is the Farmstay Australia Program? A unique opportunity to learn about rural farm life by helping out on a family run Australian farm.

2. What types of farms are available? Placements are available on all types of sheep, dairy, cattle, horse, guest, mixed and horticultural farms.

3. Where will I undertake my placement? On family-run farms in all states of Australia.

4. What am I expected to do at the farm? You are to think of yourself as a member of the family and to help out around the farm as a family member would. There are so many different types of farms and they are all unique so you may be helping mend or building fences, mowing the lawns, milking cows, feeding animals, cleaning horse stables, looking after the kids, preparing meals, doing chores. You will likely do a lot of different things and they can change every day. There is always something to do on a farm so be ready to give everything a go. You are expected to get up at the same time as the hosts and be ready to get into the day. In summer start dates may be very early due to heat in the middle of the day.

5. How many hours per day will I help out? You will help out for approximately 6-8 hours per day. Duties such as helping with dinner, doing your washing, cleaning your room, going for a horse-ride, going shopping, visiting friends and family, feeding the pets, picking vegetables from the garden for dinner etc. are not considered part of these hours. Some days may be longer than this and some shorter depending on what is going on at the time.

6. How long can I stay at the farm? The minimum period is 4 weeks. For those that do not have farm experience the maximum is 12 weeks. If you have at least 2 years farm experience, or have owned your own horses then you may book up to 24 weeks. (subject to the maximum time allowed on visa). If you wish to extend your stay this must be agreed to by the host and you should contact INTERNeX to approve this.

7. Where do I stay while I am at the farm? Most hosts have a spare room in their farm house, however in some cases they will have a recreational vehicle, an additional house or an outhouse (sleepout) where you will sleep. On some horse farms there is a grooms quarters where you may sleep and have meals. There are a wide variety of living situations and we will discuss the unique situation with you when we know the placement location.

8. Is food included? Yes, you will be offered the same food as the hosts eat on a daily basis. If you want any snack food such as chocolate, coke, potato chips you will need to purchase this yourself. You must have permission from your host to drink alcohol on the farm and you should pay for these drinks yourself. You will be included in family meals and you are expected to help in the kitchen and contribute with the cooking.

9. Am I allowed to take the program if I am vegetarian or vegan? Your placement is unlikely to be on a meat producing farm. Most likely you will be placed on horticultural farms or if you are a horse rider then some horse farms host vegetarians. It’s okay to be vegetarian or vegan but it is not okay to create stress for your host family. You must be flexible and willing to put in additional effort in the kitchen to ensure your host family are not inconvenienced by your way of eating. It is most important that you help to make dinner and still eat with your host family as dinner time is the ideal time to relax and get to know each other better by talking about your home, family, what you enjoy and reflecting on your day together. If there is certain food that you require outside of the staple diet and standard items of food in the families kitchen, then you are required to pay for this yourself. The family is not required to pay for any additional food to support your way of eating if it differs to theirs.

10. What are the best times of year to do a Farmstay in Australia? Given the size of Australia we are able to place year-round, but you need to be flexible in the location of the placement as certain states are not good for placements at certain times of year.

11. Can I go with a friend or partner? Yes, in some situations it may be possible to be placed with a friend. Hosts that accept two people at the same time prefer you to be more independent and do more things with your friend or partner rather than rely on them for entertainment. We recommend all couples/friends to purchase a car so you can arrange to do some trips together on your days off.

12. What kind of people are you looking for? outgoing, sociable, good at communicating with others and who really want to learn about the Australian farm life. The most important thing is that you are happy and eager to help out every day. Some placements require a certain skill set e.g. horse-riding experience or ability to use a tractor etc, and some require no experience and you can be taught on the farm, e.g. feeding lambs or milking cows. We cannot accept anyone with pre-existing physical or psychological conditions.

13. Can I request the type of farm I want to be placed at? You can request a particular style of farm, however depending on the season and availability your request may not be possible. Horse farms require a certain skill level and this request will be determined by an INTERNeX placement supervisor.

14. If I am on a farm with horses can I ride? Most farm hosts require a good level of experience to be able to ride the horses and this will be determined by the video provided at application and will be at the discretion of the farmer.

15. What if I want to travel when I first arrive in Australia? Let your placement supervisor know if you would like to travel prior to starting your farm placement so we can delay your start date and let your host family know.

16. What happens if I am not offered a placement? If you are not offered a position you will be offered a full refund.

17. What if I am offered a placement I don't want? We make every attempt to make sure the placement meets your requests based upon your experience and what is available in Australia at the time. If there is a valid reason that you cannot take the placement e.g. they do not host vegetarians and you are vegetarian then we will search a new placement. If you are offered a placement and do not wish to accept it for valid reasons there are no refunds.

18. What if I accept the placement but do not like it? We expect you to go through a period of home sickness in the first month of the placement and expect a period of adjustment in this time. You should expect this as well and try your best to deal with this over the first 4 weeks. After these 4 weeks if you believe the placement is not what you expected, you must contact INTERNeX and explain the situation. This can be over the phone but we must also receive this in writing via email. If there is a valid reason for wanting to change locations for valid reasons (e.g. the family does not include you in any family activities) then INTERNeX will call the host to ensure that the reason for change is valid. If the reason is valid then placement search will begin and this may take up to 3 weeks. In this time you may like to travel (at your own cost). If you want to and are allowed to, you may stay at the farm during this time. When a suitable placement has been found then INTERNeX will inform the farm and arrange for you to move location. (any costs to move farm are your own responsibility). If you leave the farm without informing us and allowing us the chance to speak with the host there are no replacements. If you just want to change farms or want a new farm we offer discounts on second placements.

19. Will I get time away from the farm? This depends on the location of the farm, the duration of the placement, if you have your own transportation or if the host has a vehicle you can use. Hosts will usually offer you rides into the local town and they may take you with them when they go to local events like church or family gatherings. If you wish to go away for some days or weeks you can usually discuss this with the family. Just communicate with them and let them know what you would like to do.

20. What happens if the farmer asks me to leave? If you are asked to leave for good reason, e.g. taking the horse or motorbike without asking, then INTERNeX holds no responsibility for finding you another position or any other support; however if you are asked to leave for no good reason we will support you into a new position. To be replaced we will make sure that you have a meeting with the host so they can explain why you are being asked to leave. Any replacement can take up to 3 weeks you may like to travel at this time (at your own cost), while we search a replacement.

21. When should I apply for the program and when will I receive placement info? If you enrol 12 weeks before arrival then you will be placed within 4 weeks of start date. If you book within 12 weeks of arrival you may be placed within 2 weeks of start date. If you book multiple placements you will receive the next farm info within 2 weeks of end date when you are at the farm.

22. Will I need to take out travel insurance? It is compulsory for all foreign applicants to purchase full medical, travel and liability insurance covering you for the duration of your time in Australia. If you are hoping to ride a horse while you are in Australia ensure your travel insurance covers this for any injury.

23. Will I need a tax number? No, you will not need a tax file number or bank account, unless you plan to work after your farm placement.

24. What visa do I need? Working Holiday or Work and Holiday visa. For those on visitor or tourist visas, fees are payable to the family for accommodation and meals.

25. How far is it from the city to the farm? Australia is a very big country so there may be around 10 hours travel from the city to your placement location. In general, people catch a bus if they are within 1 – 10 hours of the city, otherwise you will fly to the nearest town and then take a bus from there to the nearest village. You may need to spend a night or two in transfer hub locations when going to more remote locations. When we know where the farm is located and the date the host can collect you then we will advise you on travel options on how to get to the farm.

26. How much does it cost to get to the farm? This depends on the location of the farm and the mode of transport e.g. bus, train, airplane, etc. Therefore it may cost between $50AUD and $300AUD. Some people like to take a tour to the farm and this will cost more. We will give you advice on options when we know placement info.

27. What clothes should I bring? You should bring clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as well as strong comfortable footwear for helping out around the farm. Also Australia sun is very hot so ensure you bring a hat and sunglasses. You may want to bring riding helmet and boots if you are going to a horse farm. When packing these in your suitcase you need to ensure they are very clean so they pass customs. It can help keeping them in a clear plastic bag at the top of your case.

28. Can I use the farm equipment? You will have access to most things in the farm house such as access to television and telephone and computer and any games, equipment, etc, however the use of outdoor farm equipment will depend on the farm and the farmer and your experience in using such equipment. Use of farm equipment is always to the discretion of the farmer.

29. Can I do other INTERNeX programs before or after my farm placement? Yes, so long as you have the necessary work permits, visas, and are applicable to the program.

30. Does this program count as days of work toward a second working holiday visa? No it does not. You must be employed at an accredited employers for a certain number of days to be eligible to extend your visa.

31. Any final advice? Communicate! Communicate with us and with your host. We cannot read your mind, and the best way to solve things is to talk. Australians love to have a chat, so let them know when you are happy, and let them know when you are not having a good day. They will understand. If you are worried about anything talk to them, or talk to your placement supervisor. There will be things that happen that you did not expect. Enjoy the unexpected. Learn to see a new way of life and talk about it with those around you. In almost all cases when you talk the program is better for both you and the host.

1. What visa is required? Visitor Permit or Working Holiday Visa

2. Will I need to take out travel insurance? It is compulsory for all foreign applicants to purchase travel, medical and liability insurance covering them for the duration of travel.

3. Who are the ideal Volunteers? We are looking for people who are friendly, caring, physically fit, good at communicating and want to learn and care for wildlife. You must have a natural love for animals and be able to deal with being confronted by sick and injured wildlife.

4. When should I apply? At least 8 weeks prior to your desired start date. Short notice applications may be accepted on a case by case basis. Applications will be processed only when all required documents are received. Once the applicant is accepted, a letter of confirmation (LOC) will be sent. Please note that our offices are closed from December 20th – January 12th. Add up to 4 weeks more placement time if your placement is being processed during this time.

5. When will I receive confirmation? After the interview INTERNeX we will issue a confirmation. Once confirmed you can book your flights, insurance and apply for any visa.

6. What placement dates are available? Placements are available all year, commencing weekly on Wednesdays. However, no placements are made between December 5th and January 15th.

7. What do I do when I arrive in Australia? INTERNeX provides 3-night arrival packages in Sydney. This includes an airport transfers to city hostels, 3 nights accommodation with breakfast and WIFI.

8. Where will I undertake my placement? We have rural and urban placement locations all over Australia. Rural farm centres are located between 100km and 500km from nearest cities. The majority of our rural families and wildlife centre’s tend to be located in South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. Urban wildlife centres are located in most cities in Australia but do not have on site accommodation so you can select homestay or hostel accommodation.

9. Will I have a placement before I arrive