Australia has become one of the leading destinations for foreign workers searching for stable employment, attractive salaries, and long-term visa opportunities. Among the many job sectors open to international workers, housekeeping stands out as a reliable option that offers steady income, career growth, and pathways to permanent residency.
As the country continues to expand its tourism and hospitality industries, the demand for skilled and dedicated housekeepers continues to rise.
In 2025, projections show that over 50,000 new hospitality-related jobs will be created, and a large share of these will be in housekeeping. This makes it an excellent year for foreign workers who are considering applying for housekeeping jobs with visa sponsorship in Australia.
For many international workers, the housekeeping profession is more than just a way to earn a living. It serves as an entry point into Australia’s broader labor market, opening doors to permanent residency, improved salaries, and professional recognition.
Employers in hotels, resorts, private homes, and aged-care facilities frequently sponsor workers from overseas due to the shortage of local labor in this field. This sponsorship covers visa support, work permits, and in many cases, relocation assistance.
Australia’s housekeeping sector is vital to the economy because it directly supports hospitality, real estate, and healthcare. Cleanliness, hygiene, and comfort are critical to customer satisfaction, especially in a country where tourism generates over AUD 60 billion annually.
International workers who enter the industry not only secure high-demand jobs but also become part of a system that contributes significantly to national revenue.
What makes Australia particularly attractive is the balance between good salaries and favorable working conditions. Housekeeping professionals in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne can earn between AUD 23 to AUD 30 per hour, while those working in luxury hotels or specialized roles can earn even more.
With additional benefits like visa sponsorship, overtime pay, and accommodation assistance, housekeeping jobs in Australia in 2025 provide both financial stability and career progression for foreigners.
By the end of this guide, you will understand why Australia is one of the best destinations for housekeeping work, the types of roles available, the required skills, and the visa pathways that make this opportunity accessible to international workers.
Why Work in the Housekeeping Industry?
The housekeeping industry in Australia provides international workers with more than just a salary. It offers job security, career growth, and the possibility of permanent settlement.
In a country where employers constantly struggle to fill housekeeping roles with local candidates, foreign workers are highly valued.
The Australian government has recognized this labor shortage and made provisions under several visa categories to accommodate housekeepers from abroad.
One of the major reasons international workers choose housekeeping is the accessibility of the field. Unlike many technical industries, housekeeping does not always require a university degree or advanced certifications.
Instead, employers value dedication, attention to detail, and reliability. This makes it one of the most approachable industries for new immigrants, including those with limited prior work experience.
The sector also ensures steady demand regardless of economic conditions. Hotels, resorts, hospitals, and aged-care facilities always need housekeeping staff, meaning that workers are less likely to face job instability.
For example, even during global downturns, Australia’s healthcare sector continued hiring cleaning and housekeeping staff to maintain safety and hygiene standards. This demonstrates the resilience of the industry.
In addition to job security, housekeeping provides financial stability. While entry-level wages start at around AUD 23 per hour, more experienced workers or those working in specialized roles, such as executive housekeepers or hospital sanitation supervisors, can earn up to AUD 40 per hour.
On an annual basis, this translates to salaries ranging from AUD 48,000 to AUD 75,000, which is a strong income compared to the cost of living in many Australian cities.
Another key factor is the availability of employer-sponsored visas. Many large hotel chains, aged-care facilities, and private staffing agencies actively recruit from overseas, offering workers a chance to migrate legally and with financial support.
For many, this becomes a pathway to permanent residency, which opens up even more job and salary opportunities in the long run.
Finally, the housekeeping industry fosters transferable skills. Workers gain experience in customer service, organizational skills, sanitation protocols, and time management.
These skills can lead to promotions within the hospitality sector or transitions into other roles such as facility management, hospitality supervision, or aged-care support.
Types of Housekeeping Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
The housekeeping industry in Australia is diverse, and international workers can apply for different job roles depending on their experience, specialization, and employer requirements. Employers often provide visa sponsorship for these positions because they struggle to find enough domestic staff to meet demand.
Hotel Housekeeping Jobs
Hotels across Australia, from budget-friendly lodges to five-star resorts, hire international workers for roles such as room attendants, laundry assistants, and cleaning supervisors.
These jobs are among the most common and come with consistent demand, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. Workers in these roles typically earn between AUD 24 and AUD 30 per hour.
Private Household Housekeeping
Many high-income families and expatriates in Australia employ international housekeepers to manage household cleaning, laundry, and sometimes even cooking.
These jobs can be highly lucrative, with salaries reaching up to AUD 70,000 per year, and many employers offer live-in arrangements, reducing the worker’s cost of living.
Aged-Care Facility Housekeeping
Australia’s growing elderly population has created a high demand for staff in aged-care homes. Housekeepers in this setting focus on maintaining hygiene, cleaning rooms, and ensuring a safe environment for elderly residents.
Salaries here range from AUD 26 to AUD 32 per hour, and employers often sponsor visas under health-related workforce programs.
Hospital Housekeeping Jobs
Hospitals and medical centers also require skilled housekeepers to maintain high levels of cleanliness and infection control. These roles are critical and often better compensated, averaging between AUD 27 and AUD 35 per hour.
Workers in this category may also receive training in handling hazardous waste and sterilization processes, which further increases their earning potential.
Resort and Holiday Park Housekeeping
Tourism in Australia drives the need for seasonal housekeepers in resorts and holiday parks. These roles often come with additional benefits like free meals, accommodation, and transport. Hourly pay usually ranges between AUD 25 and AUD 28, but the benefits make these jobs attractive for international workers.
By exploring these roles, international applicants can identify the category that matches their experience and career goals. Regardless of the role chosen, visa sponsorship is often available, making it easier to relocate and work legally in Australia.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
Many international workers wonder whether they need years of experience to qualify for housekeeping jobs in Australia. The reality is that most employers are more concerned about work ethic, reliability, and basic skills rather than advanced certifications. This makes housekeeping one of the most accessible job opportunities for foreigners in 2025.
Employers usually look for candidates with an eye for detail, the ability to follow instructions, and a commitment to cleanliness.
Basic English communication is important, especially for jobs in hotels where interaction with guests is required. However, fluency is not always necessary, as many roles focus more on physical work than customer service.
Core Skills Needed
Housekeeping jobs require essential skills such as time management, physical stamina, and knowledge of cleaning techniques. Workers must be able to handle tasks like vacuuming, sanitizing surfaces, managing laundry, and organizing spaces. A strong work ethic and punctuality are also highly valued.
Experience Requirements
While prior housekeeping experience is an advantage, it is not mandatory for entry-level roles. Many employers provide training upon hiring, especially in hotels and aged-care facilities.
Workers with previous experience in domestic cleaning, hotel service, or healthcare sanitation are often prioritized and may receive higher starting salaries.
Certifications and Training
Some specialized housekeeping roles, particularly in hospitals and aged-care facilities, may require training in infection control or workplace safety.
In Australia, certifications such as the Certificate III in Cleaning Operations can boost employability and increase wages. International workers can sometimes complete these courses online or after arriving in Australia.
Physical and Personal Requirements
Housekeeping jobs often involve standing, lifting, and repetitive movements. Employers expect candidates to have good physical stamina. Personal qualities such as honesty, discretion, and respect for privacy are especially important in private household roles, where workers handle sensitive environments.
Entry-level housekeeping jobs in Australia are designed to be accessible, making them an excellent choice for international workers looking for their first opportunity abroad.
With visa sponsorship and on-the-job training, many individuals can begin a successful career in this field without prior advanced qualifications.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Australia offers a diverse landscape for housekeeping jobs, but salaries and benefits vary significantly depending on the region. International workers who strategically choose their location can maximize income and gain access to additional perks such as accommodation, transportation allowances, and overtime pay.
In 2025, urban centers, tourist hubs, and resource-driven regions are known for offering the highest payment structures in the housekeeping industry.
Sydney and New South Wales
Sydney, being the largest city in Australia, offers some of the highest wages for housekeepers. Hotels, resorts, and luxury apartments in central Sydney pay between AUD 28 and AUD 35 per hour for experienced housekeeping staff.
This high rate reflects the cost of living in the city, the quality of service expected, and the consistent demand for skilled workers in premium accommodations. Many employers also provide additional benefits such as on-site accommodation or meal allowances, which effectively increase the overall package for international workers.
Melbourne and Victoria
Melbourne, known for its cultural events and thriving tourism, provides competitive wages for housekeepers. On average, room attendants and hotel cleaners earn between AUD 25 and AUD 32 per hour.
Specialized roles in aged-care facilities or hospital sanitation can command salaries up to AUD 38 per hour. Victoria also offers opportunities in regional areas where resorts and boutique hotels are in demand, and these positions sometimes include visa sponsorship packages and relocation assistance.
Brisbane and Queensland
Queensland’s tourism-driven economy makes it a hotspot for seasonal and year-round housekeeping jobs. In cities like Brisbane, Cairns, and the Gold Coast, wages range from AUD 24 to AUD 30 per hour, while luxury resorts in coastal regions may offer up to AUD 33 per hour.
Seasonal positions often include additional benefits such as accommodation, transport, and meal provisions, making these roles highly attractive for international workers looking to minimize living costs.
Perth and Western Australia
Perth and the surrounding regions offer strong remuneration for housekeeping roles, especially in hotels catering to business travelers and mining-related tourism. Salaries typically range from AUD 26 to AUD 34 per hour.
Given the relative shortage of local workers in Western Australia, international applicants are often prioritized, and employers frequently provide visa sponsorship along with relocation support.
Regional and Remote Areas
Housekeeping jobs in regional or remote areas, such as holiday parks, rural resorts, and mining towns, often pay higher hourly rates to compensate for isolation and limited amenities.
Workers can expect between AUD 28 and AUD 36 per hour, along with perks like free housing, transport allowances, and overtime pay. These positions also offer faster visa sponsorship processing, as employers in less populated regions actively recruit international talent.
Understanding regional differences allows international workers to make informed decisions, balancing salary potential with lifestyle, accommodation, and long-term career goals. Choosing the right location can significantly enhance overall earnings and access to additional benefits.
Salary Expectations for Housekeepers
Salary expectations for housekeeping jobs in Australia depend on several factors, including experience, location, employer type, and specialization.
In 2025, both entry-level and experienced housekeepers can earn competitive wages that are further enhanced by additional benefits and overtime opportunities. Entry-level positions, such as hotel room attendants or domestic housekeepers, typically start at AUD 23 to AUD 25 per hour.
This equates to an annual income of approximately AUD 48,000 for full-time employment, assuming 40 hours per week. Workers in this category often receive training on-site and may qualify for visa sponsorship under employer-supported programs.
For those with several years of experience or specialized skills, salaries increase substantially. Housekeepers in high-end hotels, luxury resorts, and private households can earn between AUD 30 and AUD 40 per hour, translating to annual salaries of AUD 62,000 to AUD 83,000.
Workers in hospital or aged-care facilities with additional responsibilities, such as supervising cleaning teams or managing infection control, may earn up to AUD 45 per hour, equivalent to AUD 93,000 per year.
Seasonal and remote positions also impact salary expectations. Employers in isolated regions often provide additional incentives, including accommodation, transport allowances, and overtime pay, which can increase effective earnings by 20% to 30%.
For example, a housekeeper earning AUD 30 per hour with accommodation and transport provided may effectively save AUD 12,000 to AUD 15,000 annually on living expenses.
It is important to note that Australian wages are regulated by the Fair Work Commission, which ensures minimum pay standards across industries. Housekeeping professionals may also qualify for penalty rates for weekend, night, or public holiday work, which further boosts earnings.
For instance, weekend shifts can earn 1.5 times the regular hourly rate, while night shifts often attract 1.25 times the standard pay.
Overall, international workers entering the Australian housekeeping industry can expect stable income with the potential for significant growth, particularly if they target specialized roles, work in high-demand regions, or accept positions that offer additional perks and benefits.
Visa Types and Options for Housekeepers
Visa sponsorship is a crucial consideration for international workers seeking housekeeping jobs in Australia. Employers often assist with the application process, enabling workers to legally enter and remain in the country.
Several visa options cater specifically to skilled and semi-skilled positions within hospitality and healthcare, making housekeeping an accessible and regulated career path.
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
The Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa is commonly used by employers to sponsor international housekeepers. This visa allows workers to live and work in Australia for up to four years, depending on employer requirements.
Applicants must demonstrate relevant experience, English language proficiency, and sometimes undergo health checks. Housekeepers employed under this visa often have access to benefits such as accommodation support and relocation assistance.
Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa
For workers willing to relocate to regional areas, the Skilled Regional (subclass 491) visa provides an opportunity to live and work in designated regional regions.
Employers in remote or less populated areas can sponsor housekeepers under this visa, which encourages settlement in locations with high labor demand. Salaries for regional roles are often higher than in urban areas due to the limited local workforce and additional benefits provided.
Working Holiday Visa
While not a long-term solution, the Working Holiday (subclass 417 or 462) visa allows young international workers to enter Australia for short-term employment in housekeeping.
This visa is ideal for individuals seeking seasonal or temporary roles in hotels, resorts, and holiday parks. Workers can gain valuable experience and potentially transition to employer-sponsored visas later.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa
For experienced housekeepers who wish to pursue permanent residency, the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa is a viable option.
Employers nominate eligible workers, often after a period of temporary employment under the TSS visa. This pathway provides long-term stability, higher earning potential, and access to the full range of Australian benefits and services.
Understanding the available visa pathways is essential for international workers planning a career in Australia. Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, benefits, and processing times, so selecting the right option ensures legal compliance and maximizes career opportunities.
How to Find Housekeeping Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in Australia
Finding a housekeeping job with visa sponsorship requires strategy, research, and persistence. International workers must identify employers willing to sponsor, understand visa requirements, and target positions that match their skills and experience. The following approach has proven effective for foreign workers seeking opportunities in 2025.
Research Employers
Start by identifying hotels, resorts, aged-care facilities, and private households that actively recruit international staff. Large hotel chains such as Hilton, Marriott, and Accor frequently sponsor housekeepers, as do aged-care providers and hospital networks. Employer websites often list vacancies and indicate whether visa sponsorship is available.
Use Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies specializing in hospitality and healthcare can streamline the application process. Agencies help match international applicants with employers who offer visa support. They also assist with documentation, interview preparation, and relocation logistics, significantly reducing the stress of moving abroad.
Online Job Portals
Job portals such as Seek, Indeed, and JobActive provide extensive listings for housekeeping roles in Australia. Filtering search results by “visa sponsorship available” ensures that candidates focus on positions that support international applicants.
Many listings include detailed salary information, benefits, and accommodation options, helping applicants make informed decisions.
Networking
Networking is an underutilized strategy for finding housekeeping jobs in Australia. Connecting with current employees, joining hospitality forums, and participating in online communities can reveal job opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
Employers often prioritize candidates who come through trusted referrals, increasing the chances of securing visa sponsorship.
Prepare Documentation
Employers typically require resumes, proof of experience, and references. For visa sponsorship, additional documents such as health checks, police clearance, and English language certifications may be necessary. Preparing these in advance reduces processing time and improves the likelihood of a successful application.
By combining research, agency support, online resources, and networking, international workers can find competitive housekeeping positions with visa sponsorship in Australia.
Persistence and preparation are key to securing the best roles, maximizing salary potential, and ensuring a smooth transition into the Australian workforce.