Australia’s vast landscapes, booming tourism, and thriving agriculture industry create a year-round demand for seasonal workers. Whether you’re a local resident, a student on a break, or an international traveler seeking new experiences, seasonal jobs offer a unique way to earn income, travel, and even secure visa extensions. This guide covers everything you need to know — from types of jobs available to visa options, pay expectations, and expert tips to land your ideal seasonal role.

Types of Seasonal Jobs in Australia

Agriculture and Farming

The backbone of seasonal employment, especially in rural Australia. Jobs include fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, packing, pruning, and general farmhand work. Popular crops include mangoes, apples, grapes, and berries. Roles are often physically demanding but offer rewarding experiences in beautiful countryside settings.

Hospitality and Tourism

From luxury resorts in Queensland to boutique hotels in the wine regions of South Australia, seasonal opportunities spike during school holidays and tourist seasons. Jobs range from waitstaff, baristas, and chefs to tour guides and housekeeping staff.

Retail

The retail sector booms from November to January, fueled by Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year sales. Major retailers and shopping centers seek casual workers for cashier, sales assistant, and stock management roles.

Event and Festival Work

Australia hosts numerous festivals, sports events, and cultural celebrations year-round. Temporary work includes event setup crews, food stall operators, ticket sales, security, and promotional staff.

Ski Resorts

During the winter months (June to August), the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps come alive. Ski resorts hire instructors, lift operators, hospitality staff, and maintenance crews.

Fishing and Seafood Industry

Along the coasts, especially in Western Australia and Tasmania, seasonal jobs involve seafood processing, fishing deckhand roles, and aquaculture support.

Visa Information for Seasonal Work

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and 462)

Allows young people (usually aged 18-30, sometimes 35 depending on nationality) to work and holiday in Australia for up to 12 months. To extend your stay for a second or third year, you must complete specific regional or seasonal work (e.g., farm work, construction, mining) for a set number of days.

Seasonal Worker Program (SWP)

Designed for workers from Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste. Provides temporary jobs in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and hospitality where local labor supply is insufficient.

Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme

Replaces and expands on the SWP. Open to citizens of Pacific island nations and Timor-Leste for longer-term seasonal employment across various industries.

Important

Always ensure your visa permits you to work and understand the conditions tied to it. Breaching visa terms can result in cancellation and deportation.

Pay and Working Conditions

Minimum Wage

As of 2025, the national minimum wage is approximately AUD 24.10 per hour. Many seasonal jobs adhere to award rates set for their industries.

Piece Rates

Some agricultural jobs offer payment based on the amount you pick (e.g., per bucket or kilo). New laws require that piece rate workers must at least earn the equivalent of the hourly minimum wage.

Casual Loading

Casual workers often receive an extra 25% loading on their hourly wage to compensate for the lack of sick leave and holiday pay.

Workers’ Rights

Workers in Australia have rights under the Fair Work Act, including safe working environments, proper pay slips, and protections against unfair treatment. If unsure, you can check your rights with the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Best Times to Find Seasonal Work

Summer (December to February)

Peak season for fruit picking (mangoes, stone fruits), tourism, hospitality, and retail.

Autumn (March to May)

Grape harvesting in wine regions; apple picking.

Winter (June to August)

Ski resort jobs, citrus picking in warmer regions.

Spring (September to November)

Start of berry season, preparation for Christmas retail hiring, tourism jobs as weather warms up.

Top Regions for Seasonal Work

Queensland

Mango picking in Bowen and Mareeba, sugarcane cutting, Great Barrier Reef tourism jobs.

Victoria

Wine harvests in Yarra Valley, ski jobs at Mount Buller and Falls Creek.

New South Wales

Grape picking in Hunter Valley, ski resorts like Thredbo and Perisher.

South Australia

Barossa Valley vineyards, Adelaide Hills orchard work.

Western Australia

Broome’s mango season, Margaret River tourism and wine harvests.

Tasmania

Berry farms (raspberries, blueberries), apple picking in Huon Valley.

Tips for Landing a Seasonal Job

Apply Early

Many employers fill spots months in advance, especially for popular regions and ski resorts.

Be Flexible

Being willing to relocate or accept different job types increases your chances dramatically.

Prepare Your Documents

Have a clear CV focused on practical skills, a valid visa (if applicable), and references ready.

Gear Up

Some jobs require special clothing (e.g., durable boots, waterproof jackets) — investing early saves time later.

Stay Scam-Safe

Never pay for a job offer upfront. Only use trusted job websites or registered recruitment agencies.

Network Locally

Once in a region, visit farms, businesses, or local bulletin boards — many jobs are advertised word-of-mouth.

Resources for Finding Seasonal Jobs

Harvest Trail

A government-supported site listing farm jobs across Australia.

Backpacker Job Board

Popular among travelers, listing casual and farm work.

Seek and Indeed

Australia’s largest general job search websites.

Australian Government’s Seasonal Jobs Portal

Official listing of available seasonal roles.

Agencies

Some recruitment firms specialize in agricultural, hospitality, or tourism work (e.g., Agri Labour Australia, MLKA Hospitality Recruitment).

Conclusion

Seasonal jobs in Australia offer more than just a paycheck — they provide adventure, cultural exchange, and opportunities to explore the country’s stunning diversity. Whether picking mangoes in Queensland, skiing in Victoria, or selling Christmas gifts in Sydney, there’s a role for everyone willing to seize it. Remember to research your visa options carefully, know your worker rights, and apply early to secure the best positions. With the right approach, your seasonal job could become one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.