Australia remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international job seekers in 2026, especially for agriculture and farm labor positions. With a booming horticulture sector, expanding fruit harvest seasons, dairy production, and livestock operations, demand for farm worker jobs in Australia continues to rise. Regions such as Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia host large farms and agricultural enterprises that are actively recruiting staff — and many of these employers are willing to support qualified foreign workers with visa sponsorship to overcome labor shortages.
Farm work offers steady income, flexible job options, and a chance to build valuable hands-on experience. For overseas workers looking to live and work abroad under legal sponsorship, farm labor is often one of the most accessible pathways. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about farm worker jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship in 2026 — including job details, visa routes, eligibility, required documents, salary expectations, application steps, challenges, helpful tips, FAQ, and a summary.
Job Details
Job Country: Australia
Job Title: Farm Worker / Agricultural Laborer
Who Can Apply?: All Nationalities
How to Apply?: Online / Employer Contact
Minimum Experience: 0–2 Years (Varies by Role)
Visa Sponsorship: Yes, Available
Also Check: Farm Assistant Manager Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship 2026 ($43.17 Per Hour)
Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Australian employers can sponsor foreign workers under the country’s formal immigration system when local labor is insufficient. Farm owners and agricultural businesses often rely on international workers for seasonal and ongoing workforce needs. Sponsorship typically involves:
- A formal job offer or employment contract from an Australian agricultural employer.
- Employer nomination of the position through the relevant visa program.
- Submission of the worker’s visa application with employer-supported documentation.
With successful sponsorship, you will receive legal work status and the right to live and work in Australia under regulated employment conditions, including wage protections, worker rights, and social insurance.
Types of Work Visas for Farm Workers
Australia offers several visa routes that farm workers can use, depending on job duration and employer support.
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa — Subclass 482
This is the most common employer-sponsored work visa. If a farm employer can demonstrate that no qualified local workers are available, they can nominate you under this visa.
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa — Subclass 494
For farm workers willing to work in regional Australia. This visa is ideal for agriculture roles outside major metropolitan areas.
Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP)
Farm employers use this program to bring in temporary workers for seasonal crop harvesting, typically for six to nine months.
Working Holiday Visa — Subclass 417 / 462
For young workers from eligible countries, this visa allows temporary work including farm roles, although it does not require direct employer sponsorship.
Types of Farm Worker Jobs in Australia
Farm workers are needed across a wide range of agricultural activities:
Crop Harvester / Fruit Picker:
Picking, sorting, packing fruit and crops like apples, oranges, berries, and vegetables.
Irrigation & Field Worker:
Assisting with irrigation systems, planting, weeding, and general crop care.
Livestock Support:
Feeding and caring for cattle, sheep, pigs, or poultry.
Greenhouse Worker:
Supporting operations in controlled-environment agriculture including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and flowers.
Packing & Sorting Staff:
Preparing harvested products for market or export.
Farm Maintenance Worker:
Assisting with fence repairs, equipment cleaning, and general property upkeep.
Eligibility Criteria
Requirements vary by employer and visa category, but general standards typically include:
Age:
Applicants should generally be 18 years or older.
Education:
No formal education is required for most entry-level farm roles; basic schooling is normally sufficient.
Experience:
0–2 years of relevant experience is usually accepted for most entry-level positions. Experience in agriculture, labor work, or machinery operations can boost competitiveness.
English Proficiency:
Basic English communication skills help with directions, safety instructions, and team coordination.
Health & Fitness:
Farm work often involves strenuous physical activity, so workers should be fit and able to perform manual tasks.
Good Conduct:
A clean background or police clearance may be required for visa processing.
Job Offer:
A confirmed employment contract from a sponsoring Australian farm employer is essential for visa sponsorship.
Required Documents
Candidates applying for visa-sponsored farm work should compile the following:
- Valid passport with at least 12–18 months’ validity
- Updated CV / resume highlighting any relevant experience
- Job offer letter or employment contract from an Australian employer
- Passport-sized photos
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical fitness certificate (if required)
- Proof of English proficiency (if requested)
- Evidence of funds (if required based on visa type)
Advantages of Farm Worker Jobs in Australia
Working as a farm worker in Australia brings several key benefits:
Competitive Pay:
Farm workers earn wages that meet or exceed the Australian minimum wage, with overtime and bonus opportunities in some roles.
Legal Protections:
Sponsored workers receive legal employment protections, workplace safety rights, and regulated work conditions.
Flexible Work Options:
Seasonal, part-time, or full-time farm roles are often available.
Skill Development:
Workers gain practical experience in agriculture, harvesting, machinery operation, and team coordination.
Social Benefits:
Visa holders may access healthcare and social insurance benefits under Australian law.
Opportunity for Longer Stays:
Farm work experience may support transitions to other visa categories or longer-term residency for eligible candidates.
Salary Expectations
Pay for farm work varies based on role, region, and experience.
Hourly Wage: AUD 25 – AUD 35 (approx.)
Weekly Pay (Full-Time): AUD 900 – AUD 1,200
Monthly Equivalent: AUD 3,600 – AUD 4,800
Seasonal incentives, overtime pay, and shift bonuses can increase total earnings.
How to Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in Australia?
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare Your CV & Documents
Compile a professional resume and gather required personal and work documents.
Step 2: Search Job Listings
Explore agricultural roles on Australian job boards, recruitment sites, farm industry portals, and social groups.
Step 3: Submit Applications
Apply Now with your CV and employment preferences, clearly indicating your interest in visa sponsorship.
Step 4: Interview Process
Employers may interview candidates online or contact you by email/phone.
Step 5: Receive Job Offer
Once selected, receive a written employment contract outlining salary, duties, and visa sponsorship support.
Step 6: Employer Nomination
Your employer lodges nomination paperwork with the Department of Home Affairs to sponsor your visa.
Step 7: Submit Visa Application
File your visa application with the required documents.
Step 8: Visa Processing & Approval
Processing times vary by visa type, typically from several weeks to a few months.
Step 9: Travel to Australia & Begin Work
After approval, arrange travel and start work on the farm.