Working Holiday in Australia

Useful Information

Harvest work is paid either by the hour or by the quantity of the crop you bring in (this is usually measured in bins). In Australia, a bin is like a skip and holds between 400-500kg. Pay rates will vary according to the value of the crop and the ability of the individual worker, but as a guide you can earn in the vicinity of $300 per week after tax – according to the Australian Tour and Information Centre (www.tourfocentre.com.au). Experienced pickers can earn twice this amount and in some jobs you can choose to work seven days a week. Also, as this is work in rural areas your expenditure is likely to be limited to basics such as food and accommodation and maybe the odd six-pack. Most likely you’ll find it much easier to save than in the city.

When to Go?

There are crops to be harvested all year round, but keep in mind that different regions are active at different times. Before you hit the road, think about where you want to go so you don’t wind up in the perfect location at low season.

South Australia

• Riverland Region (Berri, Barmera and Loxton);
• Dried fruits: January-March;
• Grapes and Peaches: February – April;
• Oranges: late May – August;
• Pruning vines and stone trees: June – September;
• Apricots: October – January;
• Stone fruit: October – January.

Victoria

• Murray River Region (Mildura and Red Cliffs);
• Pruning vines: June – August;
• Citrus fruits: June – December;
• Stone fruit: October – January.

Queensland

• Bananas and paw paws: all year.

• Bananas: all year.

• Avocados: March – September;
• Capsicums and zucchinis: April – July;
• Tomatoes: All year;
• Beans and corn: July – February;
• Mangoes, lychees and melon: December – March;
• Rock melon: July – December.

Conditions and Physical Fitness

Despite the romantic notion of wide, open spaces and fertile fields laden with ripe crops, harvesting is generally hard work and requires a good level of fitness. The hours can be long with early starts and mid afternoon finishes to maximise the cooler part of the day. Expect to feel sore at the end of the day, every day.

Generally you will work in a team (often these are made solely of other roving travellers, which makes for a great way to meet friends and swap information about travelling Down Under), and a supervisor will check your work.

You will most likely break for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea and you will need to supply your own food and drink. And be warned, most of the fruit harvesting is done in hot and sweaty conditions.

Daily activities might include climbing up and down ladders, bending over (if you are working with a ground crop) and carrying heavy bags and bins. It is likely you will be on your feet most of the day.

Do not hesitate to contact our staff should you have any questions.