Farm Worker Jobs in Australia 2026: Visa Sponsorship & $50,000 Salary

Farm jobs in Australia are in high demand in 2026, and the reason is simple: there are not enough local workers to meet the country’s growing agricultural needs.

Australia relies heavily on farming to supply food locally and for export, but many farms struggle to find workers willing to do physically demanding jobs, especially in rural areas.

At the same time, stricter immigration rules in past years and an aging workforce have created serious labor shortages. As a result, Australian employers are now turning to foreign workers to fill these roles, offering visa sponsorship and competitive pay to attract applicants.

For many workers, this creates a rare opportunity. Farm jobs often come with steady work, hourly wages that can reach $50,000 per year, and in some cases, free or subsidized accommodation.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to live and work abroad, especially in one of the world’s most prosperous countries, farm work in Australia has become one of the most accessible options available in 2026

In this article, we’ll explore everything about farm worker jobs in Australia, how much you can earn, eligibility, and how to apply.

Why Australia Needs More Foreign Farm Workers

There are a combination of reasons that have created an urgent need for more foreign farm workers across Australia. Here are some of them:

1. Aging Local Workforce

Many Australian farm workers are nearing retirement age, leaving behind a significant labour gap. Younger citizens often prefer urban jobs, making it difficult for farms to attract long-term local employees.

2. Rapid Agricultural Expansion

Australia’s agricultural output continues to grow, especially in horticulture, livestock, grains, and dairy. As production increases, more hands are needed to manage crops, animals, and machinery across thousands of rural farms.

3. Seasonal Labour Shortages

Harvest seasons require large numbers of workers within short time windows. Without enough local labour, farms risk losing crops, reducing exports, and suffering financial losses.

4. Impact of Border Closures and Global Events

The pandemic and global disruptions reduced the flow of international workers, creating lasting shortages that still affect the industry today. Foreign farm workers help stabilise the workforce during unpredictable periods.

5. Economic Importance of Agriculture

Agriculture is a vital contributor to Australia’s economy and global trade. Bringing in motivated foreign farm workers supports farms, protects food supply chains, and strengthens national productivity.

Salary Expectations: How Foreigners Can Earn $50,000+

One of the biggest attractions for foreign farm workers considering Australia is the earning potential.

Agricultural salaries vary depending on job type, location, and experience, but many full-time roles start at AUD $25–$35 per hour.

When calculated across a full working year, this amounts to $50,000+ in annual wages and often much more when overtime is available

Here is what you can typically expect:

• Fruit picking & packing: $50,000–$65,000

• Dairy farm assistants: $55,000–$75,000

• Livestock handlers: $60,000–$80,000

• Tractor/machinery operators: $65,000–$85,000

• Farm supervisors or senior roles: $70,000–$100,000

Foreign farm workers also benefit from additional incentives such as subsidized housing, transportation, relocation bonuses, and rural allowances.

These perks significantly reduce the cost of living and help workers save more throughout the year.

Types of Farm Worker Jobs in Australia For Foreign Workers

Australia offers diverse farm job opportunities in 2026, giving foreign workers multiple roles suited to different skills.

1. Fruit Picking and Harvesting Worker

This is one of the most In-demand entry-level role for foreign farm workers who want seasonal or full-time employment in orchards, vineyards, and vegetable farms.

Responsibilities:

• Picking ripe fruits and vegetables
• Sorting and packing produce
• Loading boxes for shipment
• Maintaining cleanliness in harvest areas

Average Salary:
AUD $50,000–$65,000 annually

2. Dairy Farm Assistant

They supports daily operations on dairy farms, helping manage livestock, milk production, and barn maintenance.

Responsibilities:

• Milking cows and maintaining milking equipment
• Feeding and caring for dairy cattle
• Cleaning barns and dairy sheds
• Monitoring animal health and reporting concerns

Average Salary:
AUD $55,000–$75,000 annually

3. Livestock and Cattle Farm Worker

This role is ideal for those comfortable working with large animals, focusing on cattle, sheep, and goats.

Responsibilities:

• Feeding and herding livestock
• Assisting with vaccinations and animal health checks
• Operating livestock handling equipment
• Cleaning pens and maintaining farm facilities

Average Salary:
AUD $60,000–$80,000 annually

4. Tractor and Machinery Operator

A skilled role involving the operation of farm machinery for planting, harvesting, and field maintenance.

Responsibilities:

• Operating tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems
• Conducting routine equipment maintenance
• Transporting crops and materials across the farm
• Supporting large-scale farming operations

Average Salary:
AUD $65,000–$85,000 annually

5. General Farm Labourer

A versatile role for foreign farm workers who perform a variety of manual farm tasks.

Responsibilities:

• Building fences and repairing equipment
• Assisting with irrigation setup
• Clearing fields and preparing soil
• Supporting multiple farm departments

Average Salary:
AUD $50,000–$70,000 annually

Seasonal vs Permanent Roles

Farm work in Australia can be either seasonal or permanent, depending on the type of farming and location.

Seasonal jobs are the most common and usually last a few weeks to several months. These roles are tied to harvest periods, planting seasons, or peak production times. Fruit picking and vegetable harvesting are typical seasonal jobs. Many workers choose these roles because they are easier to enter and often qualify for visa extensions.

Permanent farm jobs, on the other hand, offer year-round employment. These roles are more common in livestock farming, dairy operations, and large agricultural businesses. Permanent positions often come with more stable income, regular hours, and sometimes housing benefits.

While seasonal work is ideal for short-term income or visa purposes, permanent roles are better suited for those looking to settle long-term or pursue employer-sponsored visas.

Visa Options for Farm Worker Jobs in Australia

Australia provides several visa pathways for foreign farm workers:

1. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462):

• Ideal for young international travelers (usually 18–30 years old).
• Allows work for up to 6 months per employer, often used for farm work.

2. Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482)

• This visa allows agricultural employers to directly sponsor overseas workers.
• It offers up to 4 years of employment and the possibility of permanent residency.

3. Seasonal Worker Program (SWP)

• Designed for temporary agricultural labour, this visa lets workers stay for up to 9 months.
• Ideal for fruit pickers and harvest workers.

4. Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme

• Workers from selected countries can secure long-term farm employment with visa sponsorship and reliable contract conditions

5. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) Visa (Subclass 494)

• This regional visa is perfect for experienced workers who want a pathway to permanent residency after three years.

Eligibility Requirements for Farm Worker Jobs in Australia

While requirements vary, most employers look for:

• Basic English communication

• Physical fitness for outdoor labour

• Proof of identity (passport)

• Ability to work full-time

• Experience in farming is optional but helpful

• Some machinery roles require a valid driver’s license.

• For sponsored visas, applicants must also meet health and character requirements set by the Australian government.

Benefits of Working in Australia as a Foreign Farm Worker

Foreign farm workers gain multiple advantages by choosing Australia as a destination:

1. Competitive Salaries and Overtime: Earning $50,000+ per year is achievable, even for entry-level roles.

2. Visa Sponsorship Opportunities: Many employers offer sponsorship, leading to long-term residency pathways.

3. Free or Subsidized Housing: Remote farms often provide low-cost or free accommodation, improving savings.

4. Job Stability and Security: Agriculture remains one of Australia’s most essential and stable industries.

5. Cultural Diversity and Safe Work Environment: Australia is known for fair labour laws and multicultural workplaces.

Conclusion

Australia’s agricultural industry continues to rely heavily on foreign farm workers, and 2026 will be a year filled with opportunity for anyone seeking stable work, strong earnings, and visa sponsorship.

With salaries starting at $50,000+, reliable accommodation, and a variety of job roles requiring little to no prior experience, Australia has become a top destination for workers across the world.

The combination of labour shortages, government-supported visa pathways, and employer incentives makes it easier than ever to secure farm employment abroad.

Whether you aim to save money, support your family, or explore a long-term life in Australia, the time to apply is now.

With the right preparation and determination, this pathway could open doors to a brighter and more secure future.