More than 40,000 people from 196 countries have applied for Australia's six "Best Jobs in the World", leaving Australian tourism officials with the massive task of paring the list down to 18 finalists. Applicants were asked to produce a 30-second video explaining why they the best person for the job.

The six-month jobs, which include "Outback Adventurer" and "Chief Funster", attracted initial interest from more than 330,000 people from nearly 200 countries before applications closed late on Wednesday. The dream job comes with a six month contract and a salary worth $105,650 ( A$100,000).

"Tourism Australia's 'Best Jobs in the World' competition has clearly struck a chord with the world, and I know there have been some fantastic video entries," Tourism Australia managing director Andrew McEvoy said.

An adventurist spirit and positive attitude are required to get this 'dream job,' which comes with a six-month contract worth AUS$100,000.

The most sought-after job has been NSW's Chief Funster (20.2 per cent), closely followed by South Australia's Wildlife Caretaker (19.9 per cent), Queensland's Park Ranger (17.5 per cent), Western Australia's Taste Master (14.7 per cent), Northern Territory's Outback Adventurer (14.3 per cent) and Victoria's Lifestyle Photographer (13.4 per cent).

The 18 finalists will be flown to Australia for interviews, with the six winners announced on June 21. Americans topped the list of applicants, followed by Britons.