Farm Work Accommodation Australia — Where to Stay + Costs
One of the biggest questions backpackers have about farm work: where do you actually live? Here is every option — from free camping to on-farm housing — with real costs and honest pros and cons.
Quick Cost Comparison
| Type | Weekly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| On-Farm Housing | $80–$180 | Solo travellers, budget option |
| Working Hostel | $150–$250 | Social, all-in-one convenience |
| Caravan Park | $100–$200 | Couples, people with vehicles |
| Share House | $120–$200 | Comfort seekers, longer stays |
| Free Camping | $0 | Van lifers, adventurers |
Accommodation Options Explained
1. On-Farm Housing
$80–$180/weekMany farms provide on-site accommodation for their workers. This ranges from basic dormitory-style rooms to self-contained cabins. It is the most common option for backpackers doing their 88 days.
Pros
- Walk to work (no transport costs)
- Usually cheapest option
- Community with other workers
- Some farms offer it free
Cons
- Basic conditions (shared rooms)
- Limited privacy
- May be deducted from wages
- Quality varies enormously
Tip: Ask to see photos or read reviews before committing. Use 88Finder to check farm reliability scores.
2. Working Hostels
$150–$250/weekWorking hostels are backpacker hostels that arrange farm work for their guests. They handle job placement, transport, and accommodation in one package. Popular in Bundaberg, Childers, Mildura, and Shepparton.
Pros
- Organized farm work placements
- Social atmosphere
- Facilities (kitchen, WiFi, pool)
- Transport to farms often included
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Hostel takes a commission from your pay
- Crowded during peak season
- Less control over which farm you work at
Tip: Check if the hostel takes a commission from your hourly rate. Some take $2-5/hour — ask upfront.
3. Caravan Parks
$100–$200/weekCaravan parks are popular in regional towns near farming areas. You can rent a powered site for your van or tent, or some offer basic cabins. Great option if you have your own vehicle.
Pros
- More privacy (own space)
- Kitchen and bathroom facilities
- Good for couples/groups
- Can bring your own van
Cons
- Need your own transport to farm
- Powered sites cost more
- Can be noisy
- Booking required in peak season
Tip: If you have a car/van, this is often the best value. Split site costs with travel companions.
4. Share Houses
$120–$200/weekIn larger regional towns (Bundaberg, Shepparton, Mildura), share houses are available on Facebook groups and Gumtree. Usually requires a bond and minimum stay.
Pros
- Most comfortable option
- Private room possible
- Full kitchen and bathroom
- Feel like a local
Cons
- Need to find housemates
- Lease commitments
- Bond/deposit required
- Harder to find in small towns
Tip: Join Facebook groups like "Backpackers in [Town Name]" to find share house listings.
5. Free Camping
$0 (free)Australia has hundreds of free camping spots in regional areas. Apps like WikiCamps and Campable help you find them. Legal in most regional areas but check local council rules.
Pros
- Zero accommodation cost
- Flexibility to move
- Australia has many free camps
- Adventure experience
Cons
- No facilities (shower, kitchen)
- Need your own vehicle + gear
- Not always close to farms
- Cold in winter, hot in summer
Tip: Download WikiCamps Australia ($8) — it works offline and shows every free campsite with reviews.
Accommodation by Region
What is available depends on where you work. Here is the typical situation in popular farm work regions:
Cairns / Tully (QLD)
On-farm housing common, working hostels in Cairns, caravan parks
Average: $100-180/wk
Bundaberg (QLD)
Working hostels popular, share houses available, caravan parks
Average: $130-200/wk
Mildura (VIC)
Caravan parks popular, on-farm housing, some hostels
Average: $100-180/wk
Shepparton (VIC)
Share houses available, on-farm, caravan parks
Average: $110-180/wk
Margaret River (WA)
Caravan parks, share houses, limited on-farm
Average: $150-220/wk
Bowen (QLD)
On-farm housing, caravan parks, basic hostels
Average: $90-160/wk
Accommodation Red Flags to Watch For
- Accommodation costs exceeding $250/week — this is likely overcharging
- No written agreement about deductions from wages
- Overcrowded rooms (more than 4 people per room)
- No hot water, functioning kitchen, or toilet facilities
- Being told you MUST stay at their specific accommodation to keep the job
- Deposit/bond over $200 with no receipt
- Hostel taking more than $3/hour from your piece rate earnings
Read our farm work scams guide for more on what to watch out for.
What to Pack for Farm Accommodation
Essentials
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Pillow
- Towel (quick-dry)
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Steel-cap work boots
- Hat (wide brim)
- Water bottle (2L+)
Nice to Have
- Portable fan (for summer)
- Headlamp/torch
- Earplugs + eye mask
- Basic cooking set
- Power adapter + extension cord
- Small padlock
- Bluetooth speaker
- First aid kit
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does farm work accommodation cost in Australia?
Ranges from free (camping) to $250/week (working hostels). On-farm housing is typically $80-180/week. Most backpackers spend $100-180/week.
Can farms deduct accommodation from your wages?
Yes, with written consent. The maximum under the Horticulture Award is approximately $302/week for full board and lodging. Always get it in writing.
What should I bring for farm accommodation?
Sleeping bag, towel, pillow, insect repellent, sunscreen, steel-cap boots, hat, and a water bottle. Most places provide a bed but not linen.
Find Farms with Accommodation Included
Many farms on 88Finder offer on-site housing. Search by region and see what is available.
Apply to farms instantly