When to Apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to Visit Australia
 

I'll be traveling to Australia in January of 2017 and will apply for an ETA online. I know the visa period is for up to 3 months, but how long is the ETA valid for? If I apply now will I be able to use it next January or do I need to wait until the travel period is closer? The government web site isn't clear on this so I'm hoping someone can answer my question. Thanks in advance for your help.

I believe I may have found my own answer, is the ETA valid for 12 months from the date of issuance? If so I can go ahead and apply now.

If you apply now it expires March 1st 2017 so won't give you 3 months .

There is no need to apply far in advance. The process is simple and quick. In most cases you get approved right away. I just got EtA’s for DH and myself for a trip three weeks from now. His was issued immediately and for mine I was told to check back in 12 hours. I took a look the next morning and it was approved.

No, applying for your visa is not something to do a year in advance. It's something to do a few weeks in advance. The last time I went to Australia, I applied for my visa the week before.

Thanks everyone, good to know it is quick and easy. That eases my worries, extreme travel planner that I am.