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Australia's agricultural sector offers incredible opportunities for backpackers and international workers. From tropical fruit farms in Queensland to vineyards in South Australia, discover how to find legitimate farm work, understand employment conditions, and make the most of your 88-day visa requirement.
Apply to farms instantlyAustralia's agricultural industry is one of the world's largest exporters of food and agricultural products. With vast regions dedicated to farming across every state, the sector provides consistent employment opportunities for both skilled workers and entry-level positions.
The industry is particularly reliant on seasonal workers during harvest periods. This creates perfect opportunities for backpackers on working holiday visas who want to earn money while experiencing rural Australian life.
Agricultural Output
$60+ Billion Annually
Farm Workers Needed
100,000+ Annually
Farming Regions
All Australian States
Complete 88 days of farm work to qualify for a second-year working holiday visa extension. This gives you more time to explore Australia.
Farm work offers competitive wages, often with piece-rate pay that rewards hard work. Many workers earn $3,000-5,000+ per month.
Most farms provide on-site accommodation, reducing your living costs and making it easier to save money.
Farm work brings together backpackers from around the world. Build friendships and share experiences with fellow travelers.
Live and work in regional Australia, experiencing the country beyond tourist destinations and city life.
Most farms hire workers without agricultural experience. Training is provided on-site by experienced farm managers.
Each Australian state offers unique farm work opportunities with different crops, seasons, and working conditions. Here's what you can expect in each region.
Australia's tropical farming hub
Cairns, Atherton, Bundaberg, Toowoomba
Year-round, peak March-September
Tropical climate means year-round work opportunities. Highest concentration of backpackers.
Diverse farming opportunities
Mildura, Shepparton, Ballarat, Geelong
Year-round, peak February-April
Diverse crops and stable employment. Good infrastructure and support services.
Major agricultural producer
Orange, Griffith, Mudgee, Bathurst
Year-round, peak January-April
Large agricultural sector with high wages. Close to Sydney for weekend trips.
Wine and produce region
Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills
Year-round, peak February-May
Wine industry experience. Beautiful regions with strong backpacker community.
Growing agricultural sector
Perth region, Manjimup, Pemberton
Year-round, peak December-March
Emerging opportunities with good pay. Less crowded than other regions.
Farm job wages in Australia vary based on job type, experience, and location. Most positions offer competitive pay with opportunities for overtime and bonuses.
Different farm types offer varying work conditions, pay rates, and lifestyle experiences. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right opportunity for your Australian farm work experience.
Conditions: Physical work, outdoor, piece-rate pay, 2-6 month contracts
✓ Pros:
High earning potential, flexible duration, social atmosphere
⚠ Cons:
Weather dependent, physically demanding, temporary
Conditions: Early mornings, animal care, steady hours, often permanent
✓ Pros:
Stable employment, consistent income, skill development
⚠ Cons:
Early starts, repetitive work, less flexibility
Conditions: Picking and packing, outdoor work, year-round availability
✓ Pros:
Consistent work, reasonable pay, various locations
⚠ Cons:
Repetitive, weather-dependent, moderate pay
Conditions: Pruning, harvesting, wine production, seasonal peaks
✓ Pros:
Interesting work, wine industry experience, good pay
⚠ Cons:
Specialized skills needed, seasonal, concentrated regions
Sign up on 88Finder and create a profile highlighting your experience, availability, and work preferences.
Browse verified farm listings by location, job type, and season. Filter by visa requirements and accommodation options.
Check ABN verification, reliability scores, and worker reviews. Ensure the farm is legitimate and meets your expectations.
Reach out to farm managers with your interest. Ask questions about work conditions, pay rates, and accommodation.
Have your visa, tax file number, and references ready. Provide a brief introduction about your background.
Agree on terms, arrange travel logistics, and confirm your start date. Get everything in writing.
"Completed 88 days of fruit picking in Cairns, earned $4,500, extended her visa, and now works seasonally across multiple regions."
"Started in dairy farming in Victoria, developed valuable skills, and now manages a team of seasonal workers on a major farm."
"Worked vineyard positions in South Australia, gained wine industry experience, and now works in wine tourism during off-season."
"Rotated between multiple farms across three states, saved $12,000 in one year, and extended his visa twice."
Apply to multiple verified farms in 1 click. Get replies faster and complete your 88 days sooner.
Apply to farms instantlyNo, most Australian farms hire workers without experience. Training is provided on-site. However, having some agricultural background can help you secure better positions.
Many farms provide on-site accommodation, often included in your employment package. Some offer shared housing or allow you to arrange your own accommodation in nearby towns.
Contracts vary from seasonal (a few weeks) to permanent positions. Most backpackers work seasonal contracts aligned with harvest periods.
Yes, many backpackers work multiple farms throughout the year to maximize earnings and experience different regions and crops.
Verified farms on 88Finder are ABN-checked and have reliability scores. Always check reviews and verify farm credentials before applying.
Bring sturdy work clothes, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and personal items. Most farms provide tools and equipment needed for the work.
Search farm work by region, type, and salary.
Everything you need to know before starting.
ABN-checked employers with reliability scores.
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