Fruit Picking Jobs in Australia: A Complete Guide for Working Holiday Makers. If you’re traveling around Australia on a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) and need work, you’re in luck! One of the most popular options for backpackers and seasonal workers is fruit picking and other types of farm jobs. These jobs are not only available all year round, but they can also help you qualify for your second or third WHV extension.
Let’s break down everything you need to know — from where to go, what kind of farm work is available, and the best time to start.
Where Can You Find Fruit Picking Jobs in Australia?
Australia has a huge agricultural industry, and fruit picking work is available in every state. Different crops grow in different regions, depending on the season.
Here are the main spots for picking:
- Queensland – Bananas, mangoes, avocados
- New South Wales – Blueberries, cherries, citrus fruits
- Victoria – Apples, pears, stone fruits
- Tasmania – Apples, berries
- South Australia – Grapes, citrus (especially vineyards)
- Western Australia – Grapes, oranges, melons
Best Time to Start Farm Work?
Seasons vary across the country, but here’s a general guide based on climate zones:
| Season | Common Crops |
|---|---|
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | Citrus, strawberries, and avocados |
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | Mangoes, cherries, and grapes |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | Apples, pears |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | Bananas (year-round), some veggies |
💡 Northern Australia has a wet season (Nov–Mar) that may affect jobs, so always check local harvest calendars.
Types of Farm Work You Can Do
There’s more to farm work in Australia than just picking fruit! Let’s explore the most common jobs backpackers do on farms.
1. Picking Jobs
This is what most people think of when they hear “fruit picking.” Depending on the crop, you’ll either:
- Selectively Pick: Choose only ripe fruits based on colour or size.
- Bulk Pick: Take most of the fruit and skip only the bad ones.
💰 Bulk picking tends to pay more, especially under a piece rate system.
2. Packing Work
Packing is usually done indoors in sheds or warehouses. You’ll sort, clean, and box up fruit or veggies.
- Fast-paced, repetitive work
- Often paid by performance
- Great option if you prefer stable hours and shade
3. Pruning
After the season ends, trees or vines are pruned to prepare for the next harvest. This happens during winter and early spring.
- Training provided
- Can be physically demanding
- Good earning potential
4. Thinning
You remove smaller or extra fruits early in the season so the rest grow bigger.
- Slower pace
- Detail-oriented
- Essential farm task
5. Planting
From seeds to young trees, planting is crucial during early crop cycles.
- Physical, sometimes requires tools
- Can be indoor or outdoor
- Heavier work if planting trees
6. Weeding
You’ll remove unwanted plants by hand or tool.
- Involves heat, bending, and sometimes flies
- Sunscreen, water, and fly nets = must-haves
7. General Farm Work
Not all work is crop-based! Many farms hire farmhands to do:
- Fencing & maintenance
- Solar farm labour (panel installation)
- Tractor or forklift driving
- Grain farm jobs
These are great alternatives when fruit jobs are full or off-season.
Do These Jobs Count Towards Your Visa Extension?
Yes! To apply for a 2nd or 3rd Working Holiday Visa, your farm work must be done in an eligible regional area and meet the minimum day requirements (usually 88 days or 6 months total).
How Much Can You Earn?
Fruit picking jobs are either:
- Hourly paid (usually AUD 23–$30/hr)
- Piece rate (paid per kg, bin, or bucket picked)
Your pay depends on the crop, speed, and type of work. Packing and pruning often have steadier pay.
Final Tips Before You Start
- Get your TFN (Tax File Number) before starting
- Open an Aussie bank account for payments
- Bring safety gear: gloves, hat, sunscreen
- Join Facebook groups for live job leads (e.g., “Backpacker Jobs Australia”)
Final Thoughts
If you’re adventurous, don’t mind a little dirt, and want to extend your stay in Australia, fruit picking and farm work are perfect ways to earn cash while exploring the country.
You’ll meet amazing people, visit beautiful regions, and get a real taste of Aussie life beyond the cities.
So grab your boots, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for the ultimate working holiday farm job adventure in Australia!
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