Originally Posted by
Finkface
It is for a working holiday and the visa is valid until Feb. 2016. No mention of a return ticket requirement, just either a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one. But we all know what is written and what is done in practice are not always the same. It is up to the officer he is standing in front of. That's why I was hoping for some anecdotal advice.
I think thats why it would be a bad idea to spend money on a return ticket. From what I understand about this particular visa, immigration will care more about how much money he has upon entry.
But like you have already stated, on a message board we can only give "anecdotal" evidence. In other words somewhat informed opinions. (Or worse case scenario very uninformed.) It would be best for your nephew to contact the Australian embassy or consulate to find out if he is going to have problems getting in. They would be able to provide the most informed answer.
I also disagree with the assessment of "...what is written and what is done in practice are not always the same." This statement applies to TSA officers. However in practice I have not found this to be the case with Immigration Officers in the various countries I have visited. It comes down to your nephew complying with the requirements for entry or not.