Allan Dixon is one of twenty-five finalists for the Outback Adventurer position, while Heber Hanley and Richard Cullen are contesting the Lifestyle Photographer role.

There are six jobs being offered all together, including Taste Master and Chief Funster. Successful candidates will receive a salary of around €39,000 over six-months, with another €39,000 for living expenses.

The competition – promoting youth tourism to Australia – attracted over 300,000 applicants, with candidates producing video applications and running campaigns to promote themselves. The shortlisted candidates now need to provide references in advance of the final decision (due in June).

The first ‘Best Job in the World’ competition was run in 2009, when Ben Southall was appointed ‘island caretaker’ of Hamilton Island, located in Queensland and encompassing part of the Great Barrier Reef. Southall continues working as a tourism ambassador for the region.

The job descriptions

Chief Funster, New South Wales - Review festivals and events, post your thoughts online and be a Sydney VIP.

Outback Adventurer, Northern Territory - Journey through the Outback, meet the locals and discover exciting adventures.

Park Ranger, Queensland - Check the water temperature, patrol the beaches and leave only footprints.

Wildlife Caretaker, South Australia - Wake up the kangaroos, swim with dolphins and sea lions and explore Kangaroo Island.

Lifestyle Photographer, Melbourne - Experience hidden secrets and share new trends, create city and country photo shoots and encounter local identities, designers and artists.

Taste Master, Western Australia - Eat your way around the state, forage out the finest produce and uncover the best bars and restaurants.

You can see the shortlisted application videos at the competition website.