Why does Australia want Brits to swap Sydney for the outback?

"Many Brits don't treat it as a working holiday anymore. It's more a three-year career break," says Dan McConnell, general manager of the Mad Monkey backpacker hostel chain.

He says Brits used to be the largest clientele at its Cairns accommodation but "now French outnumber British three to one".

"We see the Brits get to Sydney, decide it's the coolest place in the world, and stay there," he adds.

It's a privilege not enjoyed by working holidaymakers from other countries who must do at least 88 days of "specified regional work" in industries that need a seasonal or temporary workforce - including agriculture, fisheries, tourism and hospitality - if they want to qualify for a second year extension, and six months to stay a third year.