Last updated: 25 June 2023
Published June 2015. What is a WWOOF? WWOOF means World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms and is a global program of exchange where you volunteer your time & labour in exchange for food, accommodation and an opportunity to learn about organic agriculture.
In Australia, the majority of Willing Workers, or WWOOFers as they’re affectionately known, are young people on a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).
Why WWOOF?
WWOOF is an opportunity gain first-hand experience of organic farming, meet some likeminded people in both the hosts and other WWOOFers and experience the Australian regional lifestyle.
But wait, there’s more!
There’s also another benefit to the program. The WWOOF program is currently included in the eligibility framework for Volunteer work activities under the Working Holiday visa.
The Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) is only for one year. Many people find at the end of their first year, they’d like to stay longer. Currently you can apply for a second Working Holiday Visa by volunteering or performing “specified work in an eligible regional Australian area for a minimum of three months (88 days) while on their first Working Holiday visa” (Source: Immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) of which WWOOF is currently included.
So this means, should you successfully complete the WWOOF program you might be eligible to stay in Australia for another year. Doubling your time from one year to two!
What’s it like to be a WWOOFer?
Is as good as it’s marketed to be? What happens if I hate it?
These are all valid questions. So I interviewed some Australian based WWOOFers as a part of a series. Do you want to know what life is really like to be a Willing Worker on Organic Farms.
Find out the truth in my Interview with a WWOOFer
Have you been a WWOOFer? Get in touch!
Disclaimer
While all the information provided is done so in good faith, terms and conditions associated with visas are subject to change at any time. Visa eligibility depends on your individual circumstances therefore appropriate advice should be sought from a legal professional or consulate.
