When Gen Z’s finish school, their first thought might be: “what’s next?”
For some school-leavers, thinking about how to start their career off is at the forefront of their minds. For others, it might be going down the route of higher education – and for the rest, it could be planning a well-deserved gap year.
A gap year is an affordable way of exploring new places, learning new skills and meeting new people. Typically, when Gen Z’s consider heading out on a gap year, they’re looking for adventure and freedom far away – and we don’t blame them. That’s what being young’s all about, right?
Yet, when Gen Z’s embark on a gap year, for the parent or guardian it can feel intimidating – even gut wrenching – to watch them go off on their own journey in another country. But what if we told you that there’s an incredible gap year opportunity that means Gen Z’s can be closer to their loved ones on new territory, right here in Australia?
Enter: Northern Territory’s Red Centre.
The Red Centre boasts an incredible, diverse and vast landscape, offering Gen Z the chance to learn new skills, create unforgettable memories and land unique job opportunities.
Here are some reasons why you and your child can expect to enjoy adventure together in the Red Centre without having to journey to the other side of the world.
Leave the passports at home
We love hopping around Europe as much as the next person, but when it comes to seeing your child set off on a new adventure, having the luxury of landing with them after a relatively small flight can feel like a massive bonus.
Not only that, but your child equally gets to enjoy having their loved ones in the same country and within reach. A gap year in the Red Centre means you and your child get the best of both worlds: new adventure as well as creature comforts.
Enjoy truly unique adventures
Did you know that on a Red Centre gap year, Gen Z’s can try their hand at being a cameleer, taking tours of the stunning desert? If that’s not up their alley, they might fancy working as a lodge manager, or a roadhouse all-rounder meeting locals and travellers alike.
There are so many rare opportunities for you and your child to do things you’ve never done before – and will likely never have the chance to do again.
Discover all the Red Centre has to offer
The Red Centre was given its namesake thanks to the ochre-coloured landscape and geographical location in the centre of Australia. Made up of Alice Springs, Kings Canyon and Uluru, from native wildlife and stunning swimming spots to fine-dining and spectacular sunsets, there really is something for everyone.
Alice Springs is easily accessible via most Aussie cities and offers access to Tjoritja West MacDonnell National Park, which stretches for 161 kilometres west of Alice Springs. With national parks aplenty, deep cultural roots, fun events year-round and vibrant local characters, you won’t leave disappointed.
If you’re after an experience to leave you speechless, the majestic natural wonders of Uluru should do the job. A deeply spiritual place, Uluru is considered the heart of The Red Centre. Looming proudly over visitors at 348 metres high and changing colour depending on the time of day from deep red to orange and purple, it’s no wonder. If all the above wasn’t enough to get you and your child excited, why not check out the plethora of jobs available together? There are plenty of entry-level and no-degree-required opportunities to kick off their next chapter, making memories to last a lifetime. Check them all out here.