Your guide to interning abroad in Australia

Where are the internships in Australia based?

Intern Abroad HQ offers internships in Sydney - a leading global economy and rich center of Indigenous Australian heritage, as well as cultural diversity and entertainment! There is something for everyone in this vibrant city, which combines a beachy, laid-back lifestyle with a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Interns in Sydney have opportunities to build their career experience within a range of industries, while also being able to enjoy iconic attractions, infamous beaches, beautiful scenery, and more.

When is the best time to intern in Australia?

Internships in Australia are very flexible and you can pick your own dates. Start dates are offered every Monday of the year (exceptions may be made to this when start dates are shifted to avoid public/school holiday disruptions or closed when the program has already reached capacity). Interns may choose to spend a minimum of 6 weeks, up to a maximum of 24 weeks (depending on the visa that you’re traveling on).

The summer months in Sydney are from late November through till early March. ​​During this season, the average daily high is above 77°F (25°C). By late February or early March, nights start getting cooler. The winter season runs from late May till early September, and brings average highs of 63°F (17°C) and lows of 47°F (8°C).

The most popular season from tourism activity usually runs between April to September, when you can find everything open, and a mild and dry weather in most of the country. If you are going during this time, plan for big crowds at popular sites. Importantly, make sure you confirm your internship plans well in advance, so you can arrange your flights early too, and avoid missing out!

What are some of the highlights of this destination?

There are incredible tourist attractions to experience in Australia. From exploring the breathtaking Blue Mountains, to visiting wildlife sanctuaries, to discovering the unparalleled nightlife of Sydney - there is no shortage of things to do, regardless of your interests.

The Sydney Opera House is a world-renowned site and a must-visit for everyone interning in Sydney. Conveniently located in the Sydney Harbour, it is an architectural masterpiece and fantastic cultural hub, where you can choose entertainment from more than 40 shows per week. You’ll also find tours, food, and drinks around the Harbour and enjoy magnificent views of the bridge (the largest steel arch bridge on the planet). And while you are there, take the chance to walk, cycle, and even climb its peak for stunning views!

If you love nature, then make sure to book a day trip to the Blue Mountains National Park. As the name suggests, these mountains get their blue haze from the vast eucalyptus forests in the area. Here you will enjoy multiple waterfalls, bushwalking trails, and views of the world-famous Three Sisters rock formation.

Australia is also known for its beaches, and close to Sydney you will find some of the best in the country. Find out what makes Manly beach so popular, and why tourists and locals alike flock to Bondi beach and its white sands.

If you have time to travel outside of Sydney (and you should absolutely work it into your plans) you can travel further afield to see and do much more.

What food and accommodation are provided?

All interns in Sydney are hosted in various homestay accommodations. These are rarely located in the downtown area, but rather in the outer suburbs of Sydney, in middle-class neighborhoods, with convenient access to public transportation routes, and near to a variety of shopping and entertainment districts. Homestay accommodations provide international interns with an extra layer of local support, while also providing a valuable opportunity to become immersed in the Australian way of life, meeting new people and engaging in the lifestyle.

All homestays have WiFi (for study purposes, not for downloading music, TV shows, movies or playing games as this may exceed the limit). To keep connected when out and about, you can also opt to purchase a local SIM card with data (you will need to ensure that your phone is unlocked for international use).

Through the homestay accommodation, the Australia internship program includes two meals per day, Monday through Friday (daily breakfast and dinner). During the weekend, lunch is also available. During the week, interns need to budget independently for their own lunches. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements must be communicated in advance. There is an additional weekly surcharge if a gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian or vegan diet is requested. This is in order to provide specialty grocery items, which are often more expensive (e.g. soy milk, gluten free bread/pasta, protein supplements, etc).

In most cases, individuals will be allocated a private bedroom within the homestay apartment. However, the availability of private rooms cannot be guaranteed, as it’s always subject to availability. In the event that you’re not allocated a private room, you may have your own bed, within a shared room (sharing with one other, of the same gender - usually, this arrangement is made in the case of friends, who are participating on the program together). Bedding and towels are provided, but it is recommended that you bring your own toiletries.

For internship participants seeking more private accommodation, special requests may be made to coordinate alternative arrangements. However, there are additional costs for alternative reservations that are more expensive to rent.

What transport options are available?

Interns are accommodated during the program in homestays, located in the outer suburbs of Sydney, in middle-class neighborhoods. There is convenient access to public transportation routes, as well as shopping and entertainment districts. In all cases, interns should anticipate using transportation and commuting to and from their internship placement. The commute time will vary and your accommodation will always be assigned, with the location of your internship placement in mind. The commute may be (approximately) 45 minutes each way.

Sydney has a very comprehensive public transportation system, which comprises buses, trains, metro rail, light rail, and ferries. It also offers multiple cycling and walking routes. To use the public system network, you can choose to purchase an Opal card, which usually comes out cheaper per trip, but you can also pay with a contactless credit card, debit card or mobile device.

You’ll receive support during your arrival and orientation period and will be introduced to the route you need to take to get to your internship placement. The local coordinators will answer any questions you have about transportation and of course, your accommodation hosts also provide an additional layer of support.

How much spending money should I budget?

Your Program Fee for an internship in Australia covers airport pickup, accommodation, breakfast and dinner (as well as lunches during the weekend, providing that you’re there during the day to eat them, and not off sightseeing!) You’ll need to spend money for public transport, lunches, tourism activities, personal expenses, and return transport to the airport.

A weekly budget of approximately US$200 should be more than generous for covering lunches during the week, in addition to any extra snacks and treats, plus costs required for using public transportation. Bear in mind that your weekly spending budget will be determined by your own personal spending habits and lifestyle choices, so please plan accordingly. Eating out at more expensive places all the time or frequently buying drinks and coffees will add up. It’s also wise to research tourism activities in advance to get an idea of what you’d like to do and how much you need to earmark for this – for example, spending the weekend at the beach isn’t going to cost as much as concert and event tickets.

How can I have a successful internship?

Internships are focused on personal and professional development, so there is a degree of personal responsibility and independence that are important to keep in mind.

• Expect that your first week on the internship will focus on building the foundations of what you are going to do/develop over the remainder of your stay. It is standard and common to gain an understanding of the company/organization you are going to intern for, before you “hit the ground running”.

• Make sure to take it easy on your first week and take the time to acclimate. Always make sure to maintain good communication, as you will have layers of support available. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you are unsure of something. Locals are a great resource and will be happy to provide guidance. Don’t be afraid to proactively engage with others.

• Come with an open mind and the willingness to experience a different lifestyle. The most successful interns are typically those who are adaptable, have a positive mindset, and are confident enough to ask for a little help or assistance when needed. If you expect everything to be the same as it is in your home-country, then you may be disappointed by differences, rather than ready to broaden your horizons.

How can I start planning my own internship in Australia?

Check out our amazing range of internship opportunities in Australia! To get started, just submit your interest via our online application form (for free). We’ll review your application to confirm you’re a good match for your chosen internship program and that there is availability for the dates you’ve requested. We can then accept you into the program. Once you’re accepted, you can reserve your place by paying a deposit of $499 USD. This confirmation allows us to reserve your desired internship dates while we arrange your placement and customize your internship. Then let the adventure begin!