Australia is introducing a new ballot system in the 2024-25 program year to manage the high demand for Work and Holiday visas (subclass 462) for citizens of India, China, and Vietnam. This visa allows individuals aged 18 to 30 to travel and work in Australia for up to a year. Applicants can also study for four months and engage in short-term employment to fund their travels. The visa costs AUD 650 (approximately ₹36,748).

Eligible applicants must be between 18 and 30, hold a passport from an eligible country, and not be accompanied by dependent children. Starting in 2024, first-time applicants from India, China, and Vietnam must register through a ballot system, with a registration fee of AUD 25 (approximately ₹1,200). The ballot, designed to manage demand, will randomly select applicants for the visa process. Those who have previously held a Work and Holiday visa can still apply for subsequent visas through the ImmiAccount platform, unaffected by the new system.

Under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) , Australia offers 1,000 Work and Holiday visas each year to Indian citizens. This provides Indian nationals aged 18 to 30 the chance to work, study, and explore Australia for one year. The programme is part of broader efforts to strengthen ties between Australia and India.

For Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese citizens planning to apply, it's essential to watch for the ballot opening later in 2024. Meanwhile, applications from other participating countries will proceed as usual.

Source - https://www.business-standard.com/finance/personal-finance/australia-to-launch-ballot-system-for-work-and-holiday-visa-for-indians-124091700286_1.html