Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We've got answers. From "Is this legit?" to "Can I work in Sydney?" (spoiler: nope), here's everything backpackers ask us.
Can't find what you're looking for? Hit us up at support@88finder.com
Is this actually legit or another scam site?
Fair question — farm work scams are everywhere. We're legit because: (1) We verify every farm through the Australian Business Register, (2) We don't charge farms to list, (3) We show you the ABN so you can verify yourself, (4) We never ask for money upfront or act as middlemen. You contact farms directly.
Is 88Finder really free?
Search is completely free and unlimited. Free users see up to 5 farms per search. Upgrade to Premium ($7/month) to see all farms, get full contact details, and access the 88 Days Calculator & Tracker. Cancel anytime.
How do I know if a farm will actually count for my 88 days?
Three checks: (1) Is it in regional Australia? Check the postcode against our eligible areas list. (2) Does the farm have a valid ABN? No ABN = no visa days. (3) Will they pay you legally with payslips? Cash-only farms won't count. If yes to all three, you're good.
Can I do my 88 days near Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane?
Nope. Major cities and their suburbs don't count. Sydney ends at postcode 2299, Melbourne at 3207, Brisbane at 4209. You need to be properly regional — think Bundaberg, Mildura, or Mareeba. The further from a flat white, the more likely it counts.
What are the biggest red flags for farm scams?
Run if you see: (1) "Pay $200 for guaranteed job placement", (2) "Send deposit to secure accommodation", (3) Wages under $20/hour, (4) No ABN or "we pay cash only", (5) They contact you first on WhatsApp with generic messages, (6) Too good to be true — "$40/hour picking strawberries!" Real farms don't need to lie.
Do I really need 88 actual days or can I cheat?
It's 88 calendar days, not work days. Weekends count if you're employed (even if not working). But no, you can't cheat — Immigration checks everything. They want payslips, employer letters, bank statements. That guy who said he faked it? He got deported. Do it properly.
What's the actual pay like? Will I save money?
Minimum wage is $24.95/hour (2026), most farms pay $25-30. You'll make $800-1200/week. Costs: accommodation $100-150/week, food $50-100/week. You can save $500-800/week if you're not drinking every night. Some save $10k+ in 3 months, others break even. Depends on you.
Which farms/areas should I avoid?
Bundaberg has a bad reputation (contractor exploitation), but also legitimate farms. Avoid labour contractors — work directly for farms. Skip any farm paying per bucket/bin unless you're fast. Areas with hostels that "guarantee work" often take commissions. Research specific farms, not just areas.