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Agricultural jobs for backpackers in Australia

Two men in casual workwear sit on outdoor steps, engaged in conversation, with one holding a document and smiling.
Two men in casual workwear sit on outdoor steps, engaged in conversation, with one holding a document and smiling.

Australia is full of opportunities for backpackers and farm work is one of the most popular ways to earn money while traveling the country. Whether you’re picking fruit in Queensland, working on a cattle station in far north Queensland or helping on a fruit farm, there’s no shortage of work for backpackers looking to fund their adventures.

So, what types of backpacker jobs are there? We’ll break down the types of jobs you can do as a backpacker in Australia, and how to get started on your journey to explore the beautiful Australian countryside while earning a steady income.

Fruit picking jobs

Fruit picking is one of the most common jobs for backpackers in Australia. You will find a wide variety of fresh produce to harvest, from apples and berries to grapes and citrus. Depending on the season, you can join harvest teams in different regions across Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

These jobs come with a great reward - the chance to work outdoors and meet other travellers. Plus, many fruit picking jobs are linked to the requirements for your second-year visa, so you can keep working while ticking off your visa obligations.

Learn about the types of fruit picking jobs here.

Farm hand jobs

If fruit picking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other farm work opportunities available. Farm hands are needed to assist with various tasks such as planting, irrigation, livestock care and general maintenance. These roles provide a more diverse experience in the agriculture sector and can be found across Australia - from cattle stations in the north to crop farms in the south.

Farm work is an excellent option for backpackers who enjoy working outdoors, but it's important to be prepared for hard work and long hours. The good news? You'll be rewarded with new skills, a deeper understanding of Australia's farming industry and the chance to explore the countryside.

Packing and processing jobs

Not all agricultural jobs require physical labour in the fields. If you’re looking for something inside packing and processing roles might be for you. These jobs involve sorting and packaging fruit and vegetables, ensuring that the produce is ready for distribution.

Packing jobs can be found year-round in most regions of Australia and they offer a steady work environment. This is also a great option for backpackers who prefer working indoors and would like to avoid the elements while still contributing to Australia’s agricultural industry.

Vineyard work

Australia’s wine regions, like the Barossa Valley in South Australia and the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, are popular destinations for backpackers seeking farm work. Vineyards offer jobs such as grape picking, pruning and even wine production assistance.

These roles are ideal if you’re looking for a job that combines hard work with a bit of luxury. After a day in the vineyard, you’ll get to enjoy Australia’s world-class wines, making vineyard work an unforgettable experience.

Cattle station jobs

For those seeking an adventure in the outback, working on a cattle station might be the perfect fit. Located in the remote areas of Western Australia and the Northern Territory, cattle station jobs include roles like cattle herding, maintenance work, and general farm duties.

This kind of work is physically demanding, often involving long hours and tough conditions, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a backpacker in Australia. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the Australian Outback and meet new people along the way, cattle station jobs offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity.

Other agricultural roles

Beyond the traditional farm jobs, there are many other agricultural positions available for backpackers. These can include roles in machinery operation, irrigation systems, crop spraying and farm maintenance.

If you have specific skills or are looking to work in a specialised area, there’s a job for you. These roles offer a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills that may be transferable to other industries.

How to find the right job as a backpacker

While farm work can be a great way to earn money while traveling, it’s important to find a trusted and reputable workforce management and recruitment agency to help you secure a job.

We specialise in jobs for backpackers across Australia. Whether you’re looking for fruit picking jobs, cattle jobs, fruit picking jobs or something else entirely, we can help you find the perfect job to suit your skills and travel plans.

More than a job – a journey of support and growth 

Ready to start your farm work adventure? Contact us today to find the best backpacker job opportunities across Australia. Our team is here to help you every step of the way - from job placement to safety advice, we’ve got you covered.

Apply now
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