Work, Study + Play Whitsundays - Information for Parents & Guardians

Work Study + Play Whitsundays Program information

Information about the move to Whitsundays

Work

Students can kickstart their careers in the thriving travel and tourism industry by working with renowned hotels and tourism operators in Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands.

Students will begin working after their first semester of study, with jobs secured before they make the move to the Whitsundays.

Study

This University-accredited Diploma of Travel and Tourism prepares students for success and provides a pathway to career advancement or further education. Upon completion, they can transition directly into the second year of a Bachelor of Business at Torrens University Australia.

The program starts with full-time study in the first semester (4 subjects) and continues part-time for the next 2 semesters to complete the final 4 subjects.

Play in the Whitsundays

While studying and working, students will live in one of the most beautiful destinations in Australia! They’ll have access to discounted and free activities through partnerships with local adventure businesses, ensuring they can enjoy the stunning Whitsundays and create unforgettable memories.

This is an unparalleled opportunity for students to grow, learn, and explore while building a solid foundation for their future.

"It’s such an amazing opportunity to get a foot in the door at a large hotel while training - and I know our experienced team members have loved sharing their know-how and enthusiasm for guest experience and the tourism industry."

Jacqueline Bainbridge

General Manager | Mantra Club Croc

Students will be supported by many members of our team throughout their journey.

Student Onboarding: Enrolment Consultants guide you through program selection and onboarding, followed by a virtual orientation week to help you transition into study and connect with your Program Leader.

Study Support: Accessible learning options, One-on-One Coaching Calls, and support from Student Support Consultants ensure personalized assistance with study, time management, and wellbeing.

Wellbeing: 24/7 counselling and crisis support are available to help with personal and mental health challenges.

Job and Location Support

The Work, Study, Play Whitsundays program offers valuable insights on career pathways, opportunities, employers and recruitment, assist with job and interview preparation, and support you through the interview process and during your employment.

Additionally, specialized bonus information sessions tailored to your program are offered, helping you develop essential skills.

Students will also have access to our on-the-ground support, Shiift, based in the Whitsundays.

Meet Kylie, your dedicated Program Leader

For this program, your biggest supporter will be your Program Leader, assisting students prior to making the move, during and after the program.

As the Work, Study + Play Program Leader, Kylie brings 25 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industries, along with a deep passion for the Whitsundays, where she has called home for over 15 years. Having personally navigated the excitement and challenges of relocating, stepping out of her comfort zone, and embracing new experiences, Kylie understands firsthand the journey of growth. Her expertise and personal story inspire others to thrive in an industry that offers endless opportunities for those seeking a brighter future.

University-accredited Diploma

Dedicated Program Leader

Welcome Boat Party with Fellow Students

Accommodation Options Provided

Free and Discounted Travel and Eco-Tourism Activities

Study Support

Interview Preparation

Paid Employment

Job secured before you move

On-the-ground Support in Whitsundays

Build a community of friends and fellow students

Sneak Peek Trip

The Sneak Peek Trip occurs approximately four weeks prior to the students move date. This optional trip to the Whitsundays is the perfect opportunity for students to:

Sit their interviews face-to-face
Meet other students on the Program
Meet the Program Leader and their potential employers
Discover their new home with the support of their parent/guardian
Check out their accommodation

Parents are welcome to attend Sneak Peek. Some sessions will be student only.

Flight_Centre_Whitsundays_MASTER_ 90-2-1

Job Placement

Program Leader, Kylie will work with the students to create a Candidate Profile (resume) and go through detailed interview preparation.
If the student is successful in their application, the PL will help them secure accommodation.
If the student is unsuccessful, the PL will be in touch to discuss alternative options and subsequent interview opportunities.
Students will have their role in the Whitsundays secured with one of our partners before they move.
Students will have their accommodation secured - costs outlined below.

Accommodation

Once the student has been successful with a job placement, they will be given accommodation options based on their employment. Students will be given suggestions for their first 6 weeks of accommodation before they find their own, often sharing with fellow students.

Possible accommodation options include:

Some employment may require onsite staff village accommodation (Daydream Island or Hamilton Island Resort placements) - starting from $150/week.
Airlie Beach (Mainland) accommodation - starting from $300/week.

The full duration of the program is 13 months. Students will complete their first semester of the Diploma of Travel and Tourism prior to moving to the Whitsundays.
Tailored support available after the Program into further studies, other tourism job across Australia and leadership pathways.
Cost of the Diploma of Travel and Tourism: $2350/per subject (8 subjects). Fee-Help is available for eligible students.
Job roles include: Front of house, Food and Beverage, Guest Services, Housekeeping and more
Our employer partners pay in line with HIGA (Hospitality Industry General Award), plus overtime and weekend penalty rates.

Bachelor of Business Pathway

Studying the Diploma of Travel and Tourism with Flight Centre Travel Academy gives students direct entry into year two of the Bachelor of Business with Torrens University Australia (TUA). Our Diploma gives the student guaranteed direct entry into year two of any of the following Bachelor of Business pathways:

Bachelor of Business
Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
Bachelor of Business (Events Management)
Bachelor of Business (Sports Management)
Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship)
Bachelor of Business (Hospitality Management)

Students of Flight Centre Travel Academy will receive a 25% discount, on years two and three, if they continue onto their Bachelor of Business with TUA.

Find out more