Is Sydney a LGBTQ-friendly city?

Goodness, yes. YES. This is home to one of the most epic annual Pride events the world over (Sydney Mardis Gras) and for 2023, Sydney was the home of Sydney WorldPride itself! On top of that, there are heaps of LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs, which offer some of the most fun in the city - the drag nights are particularly brilliant.

Is it easy to find work in New South Wales

Again, YES! You will need a Working Holiday Visa (see above) but once you've got that sorted, you're good to go, mate. You can work in whatever job you like (experience dependent), whether service-based, like working bars or waiting tables; labour-based, like farm work and fruit-picking; and professional-based, like city centre marketing agencies and the like.

When is the best time to visit New South Wales?

Unlike some other Australian states, New South Wales avoids the extremes of summer and is a comfortable destination to visit year-round temperature-wise. Whatever time you go, you'll have a great time.

Destination New South Wales | StudentUniverse UK

Sydney, New South Wales

For those heading to Australia for the first time, the state of New South Wales is THE place to go and begin what will quickly become a trip of a lifetime.

This amazing state is where you'll find the awesome city of Sydney, home to the world-famous Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, a frankly ridiculous number of incredible beaches, and some of the best hostels in the Southern Hemisphere. Diversity is entrenched in this cosmopolitan metropolis - it's one of the most LGBTQ-friendly destinations in the world, epitomised by the fact that none other than Sydney WorldPride took place here in Feb-Mar 2023!

And when you branch out into the wider state, you have a whole new treasure trove of places to experience: the majestic Blue Mountains, uber cool Byron Bay, the dreamy Hunter Valley and even the Snowy Mountains (didn't think you could ski Down Under? Think again!).

On top of that, Australia is one of the best places for British students and young adults to take up a Working Holiday Visa, which will allow you to not only soak up the culture as a local, but to earn more money for travelling while doing it! If you'd like to learn more about studying in Sydney and New South Wales, visit www.study.sydney. And if you are looking to travel and make new friends and memories, check out our best offers for Working Holiday Makers and backpackers below.

Work & Play: Starter Kit

This super useful kit sets you up with EVERYTHING you need to get earning in Australia. It takes care of all the admin, allowing you by law to work Down Under, and even helps you find the perfect job for you. You can choose from a range of jobs, everything from hands-on farm or bar work to more white collar office work.

More about the Working Holiday Visa

Flights to New South Wales

Itching to get your flight booked right now? Check what New South Wales has in store and secure that golden ticket. Although Sydney is a mega highlight, there is SO MUCH MORE to New South Wales than its most famous city. Explore mind blowing scenery, like that of the Blue Mountains, become a wine connoisseur in the Hunter Valley, and learn to surf in iconic Byron Bay.

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Accommodation in New South Wales

New South Wales - especially Sydney - is bursting with amazing hostels and other affordable accommodation for students. It doesn't matter where you are - the bustling Down Town of Sydney, the relaxed surfer town of Byron Bay, or even some remote location in the Outback - we'll get you sorted with the exact accommodation that fits your budget.

Find your perfect stay in New South Wales

Free things to do in Sydney

Save even more on your trip to Sydney by making the most of all the city's awesome free activities.

Get inspired for New South Wales

Epic New South Wales experiences

Want to climb a bridge? Ride a hot air balloon? Surf the beach? How about all three and then some while you're in NSW!

Learn more about the New South Wales experience

Best day trips from Sydney

From Port Stephens to the Hunter Valley, Sydney is surrounded by beautiful and exciting places to explore.

Find out more about what you'll see and do

Frequently asked questions about New South Wales

Most travellers arrive in New South Wales via Sydney, arriving by air, either internationally or taking a domestic flight from any major city within Australia. Cheap flights to Sydney are available from all over the country. You can also reach it easily by car or organised tour, driving down from Queensland or east from Victoria - this is an area of the country with some of the best road connections.