Berries Picking Jobs in Australia 2025 – Visa Sponsorship

Fruit-picking jobs in Australia offer a fantastic opportunity for individuals seeking seasonal employment in one of the country’s most vibrant industries — agriculture. These roles provide visa sponsorship for workers from around the world, especially those seeking to extend their stay in Australia through a working holiday or farm work visa.
Check Also: Visa Sponsorship Farm Hand Jobs in Australia
What Are Fruit-Picking Jobs in Australia?
Fruit-picking jobs involve harvesting a variety of fruits and vegetables grown across Australian farms. These jobs are typically seasonal and are in high demand during certain harvest periods throughout the year. Fruit pickers may work in orchards, fields, or packing houses, and tasks include
- Harvesting crops (e.g., picking apples, oranges, grapes, or strawberries).
- Sorting and packaging produce for shipment.
- Performing general farm and warehouse duties like loading delivery vehicles, restocking, and maintaining equipment.
- Some positions may also involve tasks like weeding or maintaining the farm’s grounds.
These jobs are perfect for those who enjoy working outdoors and are physically fit, as fruit picking can be physically demanding, requiring long hours and repetitive tasks.
Visa Sponsorship for Fruit Picking Jobs in Australia:
One of the most appealing aspects of fruit-picking jobs in Australia is the opportunity for visa sponsorship, which allows foreign workers to gain a legal right to work in Australia temporarily. Several visa types are available for people interested in seasonal work in agriculture.
1. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417):
- This visa is designed for young people (aged 18-30 or 35 in some countries) from eligible countries. It allows you to stay in Australia for up to 12 months and take up casual or temporary work, including fruit picking.
- A key benefit of this visa is that it allows you to work with multiple employers across different regions of Australia.
2. Seasonal Worker Program (SWP):
- If you are from a Pacific Island or Southeast Asian country, the Seasonal Worker Program may be available to you. This program provides opportunities for agricultural work for up to 9 months at a time.
3. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482):
- For individuals who have specific skills and experience, the 482 visa may be an option. This visa allows workers to stay and work in Australia for up to 4 years, provided they are sponsored by an employer.
4. Other Short-Term Work Visas:
- Various other short-term visas may be available for those who do not meet the requirements for the above programs. However, most of these visas require specific skills or job offers before applying.
How to Apply for a Visa:
- Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to find out which visa suits your needs and eligibility.
- For visa sponsorship opportunities, many agricultural employers list their job openings on platforms such as Workforce Australia and SEEK.
Salary Expectations for Fruit-Picking Jobs in Australia:
Fruit picking is often seen as an entry-level job, but it can still offer competitive wages, particularly during peak seasons. The average hourly wage for a fruit picker is approximately $29.50 per hour, with annual earnings around $57,525 for full-time workers. However, wages can fluctuate based on several factors:
- Type of fruit: Some fruits, such as cherries or grapes, may pay more due to the more intensive labor required.
- Location: Wages can vary by region. For example, fruit-picking jobs in areas with high demand (e.g., Queensland or Victoria) may offer higher rates.
- Experience and productivity: Some employers may offer piece-rate wages, meaning you’re paid based on the amount of produce you pick. High-performing workers can earn more than the average salary.
Accommodation and Meals:
Many employers in remote or rural areas offer free or subsidized accommodation and meals. This can significantly reduce your living expenses, making fruit-picking jobs even more attractive. Accommodations are typically shared with other workers, which fosters a sense of community and social interaction.
Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs in Australia:
In addition to salary and accommodation, there are several other benefits that make fruit-picking jobs in Australia highly attractive, especially for international workers:
- Cultural Exchange
Fruit-picking jobs attract workers from around the world, so you will likely meet people from a diverse range of backgrounds. This offers a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and the chance to make lasting friendships. - Physical Activity
Fruit-picking is physically demanding, which can be beneficial for workers who enjoy staying active and working outdoors. It’s an excellent way to stay fit, especially for those who prefer manual labor over desk jobs. - Skill Development
Although fruit picking is considered an entry-level job, it provides valuable skills that can enhance your future employment opportunities. These skills include time management, teamwork, and understanding agricultural practices. - Incentives and Bonuses
Some employers offer bonuses or additional incentives for workers who demonstrate high productivity, which is common in jobs that rely on piece-rate wages. This can motivate workers to earn more and work efficiently. - Contributing to Australia’s Agricultural Sector
By working as a fruit picker, you play a crucial role in Australia’s agricultural economy. Fruit pickers help ensure that fresh produce is harvested on time and is available for the domestic market as well as export.
Where Are Fruit-Picking Jobs Located in Australia?
Fruit-picking jobs are available in several states across Australia, each with its peak season. Here are the most popular regions for fruit-picking:
- Victoria (VIC)
- Best Season: December to February
- Fruits Harvested: Citrus, grapes, cherries, and strawberries
- Popular Farms: Coldstream, Cherry Hill Orchards, Silvian
- New South Wales (NSW)
- Best Season: November to April
- Fruits Harvested: Apples, persimmons, blueberries, and oranges
- Popular Farms: Darkes Glenbernie Orchard, Benning Blueberries
- Queensland (QLD)
- Best Season: June to November
- Fruits Harvested: Strawberries, bananas, melons
- Popular Farms: Pinata Farms, SSS Strawberries
- Western Australia (WA)
- Best Season: All year round
- Fruits Harvested: Grapes, apples, pears
- Popular Farms: Berry Sweet, Bullsbrook
How to Find Fruit-Picking Jobs in Australia?
There are several platforms where you can search for fruit-picking jobs in Australia:
- Workforce Australia
The official government job portal is a great starting point for job seekers. You can find listings for fruit-picking positions that provide visa sponsorship.- Website: Workforce Australia
- SEEK
SEEK is one of Australia’s largest job platforms and has many listings for fruit-picking and agricultural jobs.- Website: SEEK Australia
- Agri Labour Australia
Agri Labour specializes in connecting workers with agricultural employers. They frequently have listings for fruit-picking roles in various regions of Australia.- Website: Agri Labour
- Job Search Groups and Facebook Groups
Many fruit-picking opportunities are shared through social media platforms and Facebook groups, where former workers post available job openings. These groups can be a great resource for finding up-to-date information.
Conclusion:
Fruit-picking jobs in Australia can be a rewarding and enriching experience for those looking to work abroad. With the right visa, you can enjoy the opportunity to explore Australia’s beautiful landscapes while earning a competitive wage. Whether you’re looking for short-term work during a gap year or a more extended stay, these jobs provide practical benefits, cultural experiences, and valuable skills for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What visa is needed for fruit picking in Australia?
To pick fruit in Australia, you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements for an Australian Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417 or Work and Holiday Subclass 462, depending on the country issuing your passport, and have the visa approved by the time you arrive in Australia.
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How do I apply in Australia as a fruit picker?
To pick fruit in Australia, you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements for an Australian Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417 or Work and Holiday Subclass 462, depending on the country issuing your passport, and have the visa approved by the time you arrive in Australia.
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Is fruit picking hard work in Australia?
You can also check with local farms and orchards, as they may have picking jobs available. Fruit picking can be hard work, and it can be physically demanding. Make sure you’re prepared for long days in the sun and a lot of manual labor.