Australian’s are being encouraged to apply for “odd jobs” in Tasmania this winter, with wombat walker, oyster organiser, paranormal investigator and wine whisperer just some of the jobs on offer.
The Tasmanian state government has sent out the call for “mainlanders” to consider applying for winter jobs on the Apple Isle to help combat work burnout and for Aussies to use up some of their annual leave.
New data from Roy Morgan shows over 8.8 million Australians in paid employment now have 200 million days of annual leave accrued. Almost one in three Australian workers are also reporting some symptoms of burnout, according to TELUS Mental Health Index.
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Tourism Tasmania says the odd jobs are aimed at helping Aussies tap into the desire to reconnect with themselves and to get away from the daily grind in a “fun and a little offbeat” way.
“We’re seeing a growing trend of Australians grappling with work-life balance,” psychologist Dr Amantha Imber said.
“During winter, we take more sick days than any other season, many due to mental ill health — burnout and exhaustion are at very high levels in Australia.
“One of the best ways to combat this is to take a break, of even just a few days, from the daily grind.”
Creative stimulation and connection to local communities, culture and nature are the selling points for Aussies to dip into their mounting annual leave days.
“More and more, we’re all looking for remedies through experience that make life feel simpler and less stressful,” Tourism Tasmania Chief Marketing Officer Lindene Cleary said.
“Watching ‘cottagecore’ videos of people gardening and building cabins in the woods. Hobbies like cooking and reading are even trumping digital hobbies like gaming.
“So, we extend a warm invite to Australians to apply for an Odd Job in Tasmania and wake up from their cool weather coma.”
The odd jobs will be open and accepting applications until July 8 via the Discover Tasmania website.
Successful applicants will have their travel expenses covered.