Working Holiday Visa in Australia with Criminal Record?

[timebomb420]

I'm planning on going travelling later this year and was thinking of spending some time in Oz. I've checked on their website and they say you would fail if 'you have a substantial criminal record'. Just wondering if anyone had any experience with this kind of situation?

I was caught in possession of a knife in 2001 and have had on the spot fines for possession of a small amount of hash, drinking in public (scotland) and breach of the peace. Not exactly a model citizen but then no worse than a lot of young people I'm sure.

Has anyone made it through with a similar rap sheet? There's a fee for the visa, if I apply and get rejected do I lose the fee?

Finally, if I do fail, does that prevent me from applying for the tourist visa successfully?

Any feedback much appreciated!

[dzug]

On the fee - it's for applying, not for the visa, (which is free) so is payable whether or not you get it.

http://www.immi.gov.au/faq/general/general04.h tm

might help you decide if you have a 'substantial criminal record'. My guess is not, so you would get your visa - but it's only a guess