Dreaming of jet-setting around the world and reviewing iconic destinations on the Logie Award-winning Travel Guides Australia?
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This beloved Network 9 reality show follows groups of ordinary Australians exploring exotic locations, competing in challenges, and sharing their adventures with humor and heart. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, here’s your comprehensive guide to applying for Travel Guides Australia auditions for the anticipated 2026 season.
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Join NowWhile applications for the 2025 season have closed, auditions for 2026 are expected to open soon.
Read on to learn how to prepare, what to expect, and how to stand out for this adventure of a lifetime. Stream past episodes on 9Now to get inspired by fan-favorite Guides like The Fren Family, Karly and Bri, “holiday snobs” Kevin and Janetta, The Target Boys (Kev, Dorian, and Teng), and couple Matt and Brett.
Background and Context
Travel Guides Australia (TGA), which premiered in 2017, is a staple on Network 9, known for its mix of luxury and budget travel experiences. Contestants, dubbed “Travel Guides,” explore destinations worldwide, from tropical beaches to historic cities, rating their experiences and competing for cash prizes. The show’s vibrant cast and engaging format have made it a hit, with new seasons typically airing annually.
As of June 26, 2025, applications for the 2025 season have officially closed, as announced on the official Travel Guides website. Based on historical patterns, auditions for the 2026 season are expected to open in late 2025 (around September or October) and close in early 2026 (January or February), with filming likely occurring mid-to-late 2026. The show is produced by Endemol Shine Australia, and casting calls are managed through Network 9’s official channels.
Current Stage: Anticipated Auditions for 2026
While 2025 applications are closed, the show’s annual cycle suggests that casting for the 2026 season will begin soon. Search data indicates strong interest in “travel guides application 2026” (133 clicks, 12.69% CTR) and “how to apply for travel guides 2026” (31 clicks, 21.83% CTR), showing that users are already looking ahead. Auditions are expected to follow a similar process to previous years, with announcements likely on the official Travel Guides Australia website and social media.
Eligibility and Casting Details
To apply for Travel Guides Australia 2026, you must meet the following criteria, based on the official requirements:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents for at least two years.
- Age: Must be 18 years or older.
- Group Size: Groups of 2-4 people are preferred (e.g., families, friends, couples, or partners).
- Availability: Must have a current passport and be available to travel between August 2026 and January 2027 (based on typical filming schedules).
- Restrictions: Applicants must not be employees of Nine or its affiliates, nor associated with any news or media outlet (including web-based media) in Australia or elsewhere, within the past two years.
- Qualities: The show seeks diverse, enthusiastic travelers with a passion for adventure, a sense of humor, and authentic personalities. No prior TV experience is required.
Casting prioritizes groups with varied travel styles—whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, luxury enthusiast, or budget traveler. Past seasons featured diverse groups like The Fren Family and The Target Boys, showcasing a mix of demographics and dynamics.
How to Apply for Travel Guides Australia 2026
While applications for 2025 are closed, here’s how to prepare for the anticipated 2026 auditions, based on the official process and past guidelines:
1. Monitor Official Announcements
- Check the Travel Guides Australia website (travelguides.nine.com.au) and social media (@TravelGuidesAU on Instagram and Facebook) for audition announcements, expected in September or October 2025.
- Sign up for Network 9 Casting or Endemol Shine Australia newsletters for direct updates.
2. Prepare Your Application
- Personal Information: Include your name, age, occupation, and location for all group members.
- Travel Experience: Highlight your travel history, favorite destinations, and unique stories (e.g., a memorable adventure or funny travel mishap).
- Why You?: Explain why you’re a perfect fit for the show. Showcase your personality, humor, and how your group dynamic stands out.
- Social Media: If you have travel-related content on Instagram or TikTok, include links to demonstrate your online presence.
3. Create a Video Audition
- Record a 1-2 minute video featuring all group members, introducing yourselves and showcasing your passion for travel.
- Highlight what makes your group unique, such as shared travel philosophies or complementary personalities.
- Ensure the video is engaging, authentic, and reflects your humor and energy.
- Follow any specified guidelines (e.g., file format like MP4, AVI) when uploading via the official application form.
4. Follow Submission Guidelines
- Submit your application through the official Travel Guides application portal or email, as specified in the casting call.
- Double-check all details (personal info, video, photos) to avoid disqualification.
5. Include Photos
- Upload individual photos of each group member and one group photo together, as required by the official guidelines.
6. Stay Updated
- After submitting, expect initial contact via phone or video call if selected. Further auditions may involve in-person screen tests in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, potentially including mock travel scenarios.
Application Timeline
Based on historical patterns and search data, here’s the expected timeline for 2026 auditions:
- Application Opens: Late 2025 (September or October).
- Application Closes: Early 2026 (January or February).
- Filming: Mid-to-late 2026 (August to January).
- Airing: Late 2026 (October or November).
Exact dates will be confirmed closer to the casting call. Follow @TravelGuidesAU on WhatsApp or social media for real-time updates.
What Happens After You Apply?
If your application stands out, you may progress through these stages:
- Initial Interviews: A phone or video call to discuss your application and assess suitability.
- In-Person Auditions: Selected applicants may be invited to Sydney or Melbourne for screen tests, potentially involving travel-related tasks or challenges.
- Screen Tests: Participate in mock scenarios (e.g., rating a hotel or competing in a challenge) to test on-screen chemistry and adaptability.
The production team seeks contestants who connect with viewers, bring energy, and handle diverse travel experiences, from luxury resorts to budget hostels.
Prizes and Perks
Joining Travel Guides Australia offers incredible rewards:
- All-Expense-Paid Trips: Travel to global destinations like Europe, Asia, or the Pacific, with all costs covered.
- Cash Prizes: Winners of weekly challenges can earn $5,000-$10,000, based on past seasons.
- Exposure: Gain a platform to showcase your personality, potentially leading to opportunities in media, travel blogging, or brand partnerships. Past Guides have built significant social media followings.
Tips for a Standout Application
To boost your chances for 2026 auditions, follow these tips:
- Be Authentic: Show your genuine personality—polished performances are less important than relatability.
- Highlight Your Travel Style: Share specific stories (e.g., a daring adventure or a luxury getaway) to showcase your unique perspective.
- Showcase Group Dynamics: Emphasize how your group works together, using shared travel experiences to demonstrate chemistry.
- Leverage Social Media: Include links to travel-related Instagram or TikTok content to highlight your engagement with travel audiences.
- Prepare for Challenges: Be ready for diverse travel scenarios, from luxury hotels to budget hostels, as the show tests adaptability.
- Practice Your Video: Ensure your audition video is clear, concise, and engaging, with all group members actively participating.
Stay Updated
To avoid missing the 2026 audition window:
- Official Website: Monitor travelguides.nine.com.au for casting announcements.
- Social Media: Follow @TravelGuidesAU on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp for real-time alerts.
- Newsletters: Subscribe to Network 9 Casting or Endemol Shine Australia updates.
- Local Media: Watch for announcements in Australian outlets, especially in Sydney and Melbourne.
Watch Travel Guides for Inspiration
Get a feel for the show by streaming new episodes on 9Now. Check out hilarious behind-the-scenes moments from the 2025 season, including never-before-seen pictures from the Guides’ cruise to New Zealand, available on the official site.
Conclusion
Travel Guides Australia 2026 auditions are your chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure, explore global destinations, and inspire viewers with your journey.
While 2025 applications have closed, the 2026 casting call is expected to open soon. Prepare your application, craft a compelling video, and showcase why your group is perfect for this Logie Award-winning show.
Stay tuned to official channels, and you could be the next Travel Guide, joining the ranks of The Fren Family and The Target Boys!
