FARM WORK AUSTRALIA
Are you looking for a paid work experience abroad in the agricultural industry? A farm job could be perfect for you! Whether you have experience in the sector or are new to it, farm work in Australia is flexible, rewarding, and highly sought after. Get hands-on experience with crops, livestock, or horticulture, immerse yourself in the Australian countryside, and earn money while you travel. Join Ultimate Travel and explore the various farm work opportunities available across Australia!
VISA REQUIREMENTS
For a working holiday in Australia, you’ll need a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) or Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462), depending on your country of origin. Ensure you meet the age requirements (18-30 or 18-35, depending on the visa), have a valid passport, and sufficient funds for your trip.
If you plan to complete farm work in Australia, note that some changes have been made to the eligibility criteria for a second or third Working Holiday Visa. From November 2021, the government has introduced a new requirement for working holidaymakers to undertake agricultural work in regional Australia for a minimum of nine months before they are eligible to apply for a second or third visa.
Visit the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) for detailed information on eligibility, application processes, and the latest updates on the requirements for completing farm work
Important Facts and Figures
- Top Farm Work Industries: Agriculture, Horticulture, and Livestock Farming are the top industries for farm work opportunities in Australia. These industries include a variety of roles, such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, dairy farming, poultry farming, and cattle mustering.
- Best Regions for Farm Work: While regional areas across Australia offer opportunities for farm work, some of the top regions for working holiday farm work are the Riverina in New South Wales, the Lockyer Valley and the Darling Downs in Queensland, and the Goulburn Valley in Victoria. These areas have a high demand for seasonal farm workers and offer a variety of farm work options.
- Minimum Wage: As of 2021, the national minimum wage in Australia is AUD 21.38 per hour, or AUD 812.60 per 38-hour week. However, wages in the farm work sector may vary based on the type of work, location, and award.
- Average Wage: The average hourly wage for a farm worker in Australia ranges from AUD 20 to AUD 28, depending on the type of work and experience level.
- Likelihood of Getting a Job: The demand for farm workers varies based on the seasonal demand and the type of work. Harvest season (which varies based on the crop and location) usually sees an increase in the demand for farm workers. It’s also important to note that farm work can be physically demanding, and workers should be prepared for long hours in the sun and physically challenging work.
- Before starting farm work in Australia, it’s crucial for backpackers to ensure they have the appropriate work permits and visas. The team at Ultimate Travel can assist with this process by providing guidance on visa applications and ensuring that backpackers have the necessary documentation to legally work in Australia. Our team can also provide advice on extending work visas and meeting the eligibility criteria for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, which may require completing specific types of regional work, such as farm work.
- Farm work agreements may vary regarding accommodation and meals. Some farms may provide these as part of the work agreement, while others may require workers to find their own accommodation and transport.
FINDING JOBS
One of the most challenging aspects of a working holiday is finding a job that aligns with your skills and needs. Travellers at Work (TAW), our dedicated job platform, is designed specifically to address this issue for travellers on working holidays. TAW connects you with a wide range of employers and farm work opportunities in Australia, helping you find the perfect fit.
To kick off your working holiday and gap year in Australia, consider an UltimateOz arrival package in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth. With this package, you’ll receive 12 months of job support from TAW, have the opportunity to meet fellow travellers, and enjoy a week of exploration and activities in your new home. This comprehensive approach ensures that you’re well-prepared and informed, setting the stage for a successful and fulfilling working holiday experience.