Harvest Fruit Picking Jobs

For years the noble backpacker has relied on fruit picking and harvest work as a reliable source of income, or a dependable backup plan when things get dire. In the past few years it has become even more popular, since the Australian Immigration Department introduced the 12-month visa extension for travellers who work 3-months or more in approved regional parts of Australia.

Harvest work is available in every state, and depending on the time of year and if you plan it properly, its is a great way to travel from place to place and earn money as you go. Click here for an Australian Harvest Calendar.

Harvesting, picking and packing in rural areas is a great way to earn money fast and spend it slowly – which is often hard to do in cities. However, pay rates are not always guaranteed as you will often be paid a ‘piece rate’, per load / bucket / cart you fill. The amount will vary depending on how fast / efficient you are, weather conditions and the abundance of the crop. In addition, hours of work cannot be guaranteed. Bad weather conditions, early or late harvests and oversupply of workers can often mean work is not available as expected.

The fruit picking life can be a great adventure but it certainly isn’t for the weak spirited. You will need to be prepared to put in some ‘hard yakka’, as most of the work will be physical, and at times backbreaking and exhausting. The hours can be long, starting as early as sunrise and often not ending until sunset. Many farm jobs are in remote locations, so don’t expect to walk to the nearest cafe on Sunday morning for a coffee and a bacon roll. Properties can be a few hours drive from the nearest town, be prepared for a life in the bush!

Farm and harvest work takes you to tiny and remote country towns. While you will work and live with other travellers, you will undoubtedly get to know some of the local Aussie characters who will be sure to give you plenty of good laughs and some life enriching memories.

Find harvest jobs in Australia