YOUR QUESTIONS
ANSWERED

Who runs SWY? 

The Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan organises and funds the SWY program. 

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How often does the program run? 

The program is run each year by the Cabinet Office of Japan. The Japanese Government invites 10 countries to participate and these change from year to year. 

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If you would like to be notified the next time Australia is invited, please subscribe to our mailing list here or follow us on social media.

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What are the age restrictions? 

Delegates must be between 18 and 32 years of age. 

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I am a Permanent Resident, can I apply? 

No. The Japanese Government has specified that all delegates must be Australian citizens. You may be able to apply through another country where you hold citizenship. Please contact the Japanese Embassy in that country. 

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I am currently out of the country, can I still apply? 

Yes. If you are shortlisted, you will need to be available for a telephone interview. In addition, if you are selected as a delegate, you must attend the compulsory National Workshop in Canberra. This is usually held over a weekend (Friday to Sunday) in late October/early November. 

 

How many participants are there? 

There are usually 242 participants including 122 participants from Japan and 12 participants from each of the other 10 invited countries. 

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How long is the program? 

The program changes from year to year but usually lasts for six weeks from mid-January to late-February. 

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What will I do on the program? 

This changes every year, but there is usually: ​

• Lectures and workshops by onboard facilitators 

• Participant led seminars, workshops and focus groups 

• Cultural exchange activities, including dance, music, art and limited gastronomical activities

• National presentations by each country

• Official visits to institutions during international Ports of Call

• Leisure including a pool, restaurant, bar, and participant-led social activities​

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How much does it cost? 

As a participant there is little cost involved. The Government of Japan very generously covers most expenses. This includes your return airfare to Japan, as well as all living expenses whilst in Japan and onboard the ship. Participants are required to purchase travel insurance, national uniforms, gifts, and provide their own spending money. You will also need to fund your participation in the compulsory Canberra National Workshop before departure. ​

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Can I receive feedback on my application? 

No. Due to the number of applications received, we are unable to provide individual feedback. 

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If you have another question that is not answered above, please contact us.