Fruit picking jobs in Australia have become one of the most attractive opportunities for international workers in 2025. These roles are in high demand due to the agricultural sector’s need for seasonal and full-time workers to maintain its strong export market.
The country’s fruit industry generates billions of dollars annually, making it an essential part of the economy. With labor shortages continuing to affect farming regions, the Australian government and farm employers are increasingly offering visa sponsorships to foreign workers to fill these gaps.
For international applicants, this means not only a reliable source of income but also the possibility of gaining work experience in a developed country, while legally working under a supported visa arrangement.
In 2025, fruit picking jobs are appealing for people without experience because employers are willing to provide basic training on the job. Unlike technical or corporate positions that require specific degrees, fruit picking is open to individuals who are physically fit, motivated, and ready to work outdoors.
For many, this is an entry point into Australia’s labor market, with salaries ranging between AU$24 to AU$32 per hour, depending on the farm, fruit type, and region. A full-time worker could earn AU$1,000 to AU$1,300 weekly, which is significantly attractive for seasonal employment.
This industry is also supported by various visa programs, including the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417), and the Seasonal Worker Program, which are specifically designed to allow foreigners to work in agriculture.
For workers seeking long-term employment opportunities, these programs can even open pathways to permanent residency in the future. The beauty of fruit picking jobs is that they combine work with lifestyle.
Workers often live in rural or semi-rural communities, close to farms, which reduces living costs. Accommodation is sometimes offered by employers at subsidized rates.
For adventurous individuals, this is not just about earning a good salary but also experiencing Australia’s natural beauty while working in fields and orchards that contribute directly to the country’s food supply chain.
Why Work in the Fruit Picking Industry?
Working in Australia’s fruit picking industry comes with several benefits beyond just a paycheck. Many foreigners choose this sector because it provides quick access to employment without complex recruitment processes.
Farms across Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia recruit large numbers of international workers every year, creating opportunities for thousands of job seekers who may not qualify for other professional roles.
One of the strongest reasons to consider this industry is the earning potential. Even though fruit picking is considered entry-level, workers can expect to earn more than minimum wage due to government-enforced labor laws.
Seasonal rates are typically AU$24.10 per hour under the Horticulture Award, with overtime and weekend rates sometimes rising to AU$30–AU$38 per hour. This means that during the peak harvesting season, a motivated worker can save a significant portion of their income within a few months.
Another reason is visa sponsorship. The Australian agricultural sector relies heavily on foreign labor, and the government recognizes this need by granting specific visas to attract workers.
Employers who cannot find enough local labor are authorized to sponsor foreign employees, making the visa process smoother. For international applicants, this ensures legal work rights, stable employment, and in some cases, longer contracts that extend beyond one season.
The lifestyle is also a major attraction. Unlike factory or office jobs, fruit picking offers outdoor work, fresh air, and direct interaction with nature.
Workers can experience life in rural Australia, which is very different from city living. It also allows individuals to travel within Australia during or after their contracts, making it ideal for young people or those looking to explore the country.
Job Security and Growth in Agriculture
Agriculture in Australia is a growing industry, with fruit exports reaching AU$2.5 billion annually. This means jobs are not only available but also consistently expanding.
By 2030, it is expected that Australia will need an additional 25,000 foreign agricultural workers annually. For job seekers in 2025, this translates into strong demand and job security.
Work-Life Balance and Accommodation Benefits
Many farms provide subsidized accommodation close to work, reducing travel costs. Workers can live in dormitories or shared farmhouses for as little as AU$80–AU$120 per week, which allows them to save most of their earnings.
Combined with the simple lifestyle of rural communities, this makes fruit picking jobs highly cost-effective for international employees.
No Experience Needed
Perhaps the most important reason for many foreigners is that fruit picking does not require prior work experience. Employers provide training on safe picking techniques, handling tools, and packing processes.
This opens the door to workers from Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe who want to start earning quickly in Australia without going through years of study or specialized training.
Types of Fruit Picking Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Australia’s vast climate zones make it one of the best places for diverse fruit production. From tropical bananas in Queensland to apples in Tasmania, the country’s farms produce fruits year-round, creating different types of fruit picking jobs.
For workers seeking visa-sponsored roles, these categories define the kind of work available and the regions where jobs can be found.
Citrus Picking Jobs
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and mandarins are widely grown in New South Wales, South Australia, and Queensland.
Workers in citrus picking jobs earn an average of AU$25 to AU$30 per hour, with seasonal demand highest between May and September. Since citrus is a major export product, farms often sponsor workers through the Seasonal Worker Program.
Berry Picking Jobs
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are popular in regions like Victoria and Queensland. Berry picking is usually fast-paced and requires precision, as the fruits are delicate.
Wages often start at AU$24 per hour but can rise higher with piece-rate systems, where skilled pickers earn more depending on the volume they collect.
Apple and Pear Picking Jobs
Tasmania and Victoria are the biggest producers of apples and pears. Harvest season typically runs from February to May, and wages average AU$1,000 to AU$1,200 per week.
Since apple orchards need large numbers of workers, many employers here are open to sponsoring foreign employees under agricultural visa programs.
Grape Harvesting Jobs
Australia’s wine industry relies heavily on grape harvesting, especially in South Australia’s Barossa Valley and Victoria’s Yarra Valley. Jobs are seasonal between January and March, with wages ranging between AU$25–AU$32 per hour. Some employers even provide free accommodation due to the high demand during this short period.
Banana and Tropical Fruit Picking Jobs
In Queensland’s tropical north, banana, mango, and pineapple farms provide year-round employment. Wages average AU$26 per hour, with sponsorship opportunities available because of constant labor shortages. Unlike seasonal crops, tropical fruits provide more stable contracts, making them ideal for foreign workers looking for longer visa durations.
Stone Fruit Picking Jobs
Cherries, peaches, and plums are grown in New South Wales and Victoria. These fruits are harvested from November to February, and wages can be higher due to the short but intensive season. Workers can earn between AU$1,200 and AU$1,500 weekly if working overtime.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
One of the main attractions of fruit picking jobs in Australia is that they require little to no prior experience. Employers are more interested in physical ability, reliability, and willingness to work outdoors than in formal education or work history. However, having certain basic skills and qualities can increase employability and earning potential.
The essential requirement is physical fitness. Fruit picking often involves bending, climbing ladders, and carrying crates. Workers are expected to spend long hours in the field, sometimes under the hot sun.
This makes endurance and strength valuable. Employers typically look for individuals who can work between 6–8 hours daily during harvest seasons, sometimes extending up to 10–12 hours during peak demand.
Basic English Communication
While not mandatory in all cases, the ability to understand simple English instructions is helpful. Workers need to follow safety guidelines, operate farm tools, and sometimes communicate with supervisors. Basic English skills make the job smoother and also improve chances of long-term sponsorship.
Adaptability to Rural Living
Since fruit picking jobs are based in rural regions, workers must be adaptable. Farms are often located far from big cities, and living conditions may be simpler. The ability to adjust to this lifestyle is an advantage for those seeking visa-sponsored work.
On-the-job Training
Most farms provide training, teaching workers how to identify ripe fruits, handle delicate produce, and use basic picking equipment. This training usually lasts a few days but ensures that workers quickly gain the required skills to perform effectively.
Teamwork and Reliability
Fruit picking is often done in teams, with workers assigned rows or sections of orchards. Being a reliable team player increases productivity and ensures a good relationship with employers, which can improve chances of being sponsored for longer contracts.
By meeting these entry-level expectations, international applicants can secure stable jobs without formal qualifications, while still earning competitive wages and gaining legal work experience in Australia.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
The payment structure for fruit picking jobs in Australia varies significantly depending on the region, type of fruit, and the seasonal demand. Some regions offer higher pay because of labor shortages, difficult terrain, or specialty crops that require careful handling. Understanding these regions is crucial for foreign workers seeking visa-sponsored employment with maximum earning potential.
Queensland
Queensland, especially in regions like the Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, and Atherton Tablelands, is a hotspot for tropical fruits such as bananas, pineapples, and mangoes. Workers in Queensland can expect higher wages due to the physically demanding nature of harvesting these fruits.
Hourly rates average AU$26 to AU$32, with piece-rate systems allowing experienced pickers to earn more. The combination of year-round work and visa sponsorship programs like the Seasonal Worker Program makes Queensland particularly attractive for foreign applicants.
Victoria
Victoria is renowned for its apple, pear, berry, and stone fruit farms, especially in the Goulburn Valley and Yarra Valley. The region offers high-paying seasonal jobs during peak harvest from February to May.
Workers in Victoria can earn between AU$25 and AU$30 per hour, and some farms provide accommodation, reducing living expenses and increasing net income. The region’s developed infrastructure and farm management also mean smoother visa sponsorship procedures for international workers.
New South Wales
New South Wales (NSW) is another key region, with farms in areas like Orange, Murrumbidgee, and the Northern Rivers producing citrus, berries, and stone fruits.
Wages are competitive, often ranging from AU$24 to AU$29 per hour, with opportunities for overtime during peak harvests. The region’s farms are well-established, offering structured work schedules, clear safety protocols, and support for visa-sponsored employees.
South Australia
South Australia, particularly the Barossa Valley and Riverland regions, specializes in grapes and citrus. Workers can earn between AU$25 and AU$32 per hour, with additional pay for overtime.
The Barossa Valley’s wine industry also allows for specialized fruit-picking skills, which can lead to higher pay rates. Visa sponsorship is common in this region due to chronic labor shortages in the grape harvest season.
Tasmania
Tasmania is famous for apples, cherries, and berries. Harvesting jobs in this region are short-term but intense, typically from November to March. Due to the physical demands and shorter harvesting period, wages can be higher, averaging AU$28 to AU$35 per hour.
Some employers provide subsidized or free accommodation to attract international workers, making Tasmania an ideal destination for temporary visa holders seeking high pay.
Salary Expectations for Fruit Pickers
Salary expectations in the Australian fruit picking industry are influenced by factors such as fruit type, region, experience, and whether payment is hourly or piece-rate.
On average, a beginner fruit picker can earn AU$24–AU$26 per hour, while experienced pickers can achieve AU$30–AU$35 per hour during peak seasons. Weekly earnings for full-time work generally range from AU$900 to AU$1,500, depending on the location and crop type.
Hourly vs Piece-rate Payment
Many farms offer hourly wages under the Horticulture Award, which is government-regulated to ensure minimum payment standards. However, some farms use a piece-rate system, paying workers based on the quantity of fruit picked.
This method can significantly increase earnings for skilled workers. For example, a worker picking berries may earn AU$25 per hour on average, but with an efficient pace, they could reach AU$1,500 weekly, surpassing the standard hourly wage.
Overtime and Weekend Work
Australia’s labor laws require higher pay for overtime, weekends, and public holidays. Overtime rates can range from 1.5x to 2x the standard hourly wage, meaning workers can increase their weekly earnings considerably during harvest peaks. This is especially beneficial for seasonal workers under visa sponsorship, as it allows them to maximize income in a short time frame.
Accommodation and Benefits
Some employers provide accommodation, meals, and transport, which reduces living expenses. This effectively increases net income, allowing workers to save a larger portion of their salary.
For example, a worker earning AU$1,200 per week but paying AU$100 for accommodation still retains AU$1,100, which is a significant saving compared to city living expenses.
Long-term Income Potential
For workers who return for multiple seasons or extend their stay under visa programs, income potential increases. Experienced pickers often receive higher rates or are promoted to supervisory positions, earning AU$35–AU$40 per hour.
This career trajectory can make fruit picking a lucrative option even for long-term residents or those seeking pathways to permanent residency.
Visa Types and Options for Fruit Pickers
Australia offers several visa options for international workers seeking fruit picking jobs. Understanding these visas is crucial for securing legal employment with sponsorship.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
The Subclass 482 visa allows employers to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled workers in industries facing labor shortages, including agriculture. Workers can stay for up to four years and are eligible for family sponsorship in some cases. Farms using this visa can offer long-term contracts and competitive salaries.
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and 462)
The Working Holiday Visa is ideal for young international workers, allowing individuals aged 18–30 (or 35 for some countries) to work in Australia for up to 12 months, with the option to extend through completing specified regional work, such as fruit picking. Earnings are fully legal, and workers can access multiple farm locations under visa conditions.
Seasonal Worker Program (SWP)
The Seasonal Worker Program is designed specifically for agricultural labor. Workers from participating countries can stay for up to nine months, performing seasonal work like fruit picking.
Employers provide visa sponsorship, accommodation, and training, ensuring legal employment and a structured work environment.
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS, Subclass 187)
For workers aiming for long-term opportunities, the RSMS visa allows employers to sponsor workers for permanent residency. Fruit picking and farm management roles in regional Australia may qualify if the worker has proven experience and the farm cannot fill the position locally.
State Nomination Programs
Some Australian states, like Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, offer state-nominated visa programs for agricultural workers. These programs prioritize visa applications for regions with high labor demand, increasing the likelihood of sponsorship for foreign fruit pickers.
How to Find Fruit Picking Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Finding a fruit picking job in Australia with visa sponsorship requires a strategic approach, combining online research, direct applications, and networking. The most effective method is to identify farms or recruitment agencies that specialize in international workers.
Agricultural Recruitment Agencies
Many recruitment agencies in Australia focus on connecting foreign workers with farms. Agencies provide guidance on visa requirements, work conditions, and accommodation. They also ensure that employers offering sponsorship comply with Australian labor laws, giving applicants legal protection.
Online Job Portals
Job portals such as Seek, Indeed, and JobActive list seasonal agricultural roles. Workers can filter searches for visa-sponsored positions and check employer reviews. Farms offering sponsorship explicitly mention visa support in job descriptions, which helps applicants target opportunities efficiently.
Direct Farm Applications
Applying directly to farms is another effective method. Many large fruit farms have dedicated websites with careers sections detailing seasonal work and sponsorship opportunities.
This method allows applicants to establish direct communication with employers, increasing chances of securing contracts and long-term positions.
Networking and Community Connections
International workers who have previously completed seasonal work in Australia often share contacts, farm recommendations, and employment tips. Joining online forums, social media groups, and expatriate communities can provide valuable leads for visa-sponsored fruit picking roles.
Visa Documentation Preparation
Having all necessary documentation ready, including passport, proof of identity, health checks, and visa application forms, can speed up the hiring process. Employers are more likely to sponsor workers who can start immediately without administrative delays.
By combining these strategies, foreign workers can maximize their chances of securing high-paying fruit picking jobs with visa sponsorship in Australia.
With careful planning, workers can achieve competitive earnings, gain legal work experience, and explore opportunities for longer-term employment or residency.