David Uc-GrantThe year 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most promising times for international workers who wish to build a career in agriculture in Australia. The agricultural sector remains one of the largest employers of foreign workers, particularly those who do not have higher education or extensive experience.
Unskilled agriculture laborer jobs in Australia are now offering salaries that range between £2,500 to £7,500 monthly, depending on the region, the employer, and the type of contract offered.
Australia’s agriculture industry is not only about fruit picking, harvesting, or cattle farming. It is a diversified sector that contributes billions to the economy and faces a chronic shortage of manpower every year.
This labor gap has paved the way for migrants from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America to apply for unskilled labor positions. Employers are more than willing to sponsor visas and provide accommodation for committed workers because local Australians often avoid physically demanding farm work.
For international job seekers, this is a life-changing opportunity. By applying for unskilled agriculture jobs in Australia, one can earn a competitive salary, secure a work visa, and even transition to permanent residency over time.
For example, workers in fruit harvesting may earn around £2,800 per month in entry-level roles, while those working in livestock farms may receive salaries closer to £6,500 monthly due to longer hours and physical intensity.
Additionally, there are seasonal work programs and long-term contracts available. Seasonal contracts usually last between 3 to 9 months, while permanent offers can stretch for years. Both provide an excellent gateway to securing stable employment in Australia.
With the government’s recent emphasis on filling regional job shortages, unskilled laborers now have multiple pathways to obtain visa sponsorship, making this an ideal time for job seekers to consider relocating.
Whether you are seeking stable income, international work experience, or the possibility of permanent settlement, Australia’s agricultural labor market offers countless opportunities. This article provides everything you need to know, from skills required, highest-paying regions, expected salaries, visa options, and the best ways to secure unskilled agriculture jobs in Australia in 2025.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
Unlike professional sectors where qualifications play a vital role, unskilled agriculture laborer jobs in Australia do not demand higher education degrees or specialized certifications. Instead, employers focus on physical strength, stamina, and a willingness to work long hours.
For most roles, basic English communication skills are helpful, but they are not always mandatory since some farms employ workers from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Key entry-level skills employers look for include:
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting, bending, and standing for long hours.
- Basic teamwork and communication skills to follow instructions effectively.
- Adaptability to different weather conditions, as farm work often takes place in hot summers and cool winters.
- Willingness to relocate and live in regional areas, often in employer-provided housing.
Experience is not mandatory for most unskilled agriculture jobs. However, having previous exposure to farming, gardening, construction, or any form of manual labor can give applicants a competitive edge. For example, individuals who have worked in fruit picking or warehouse labor often adapt faster to agricultural work requirements.
Employers also emphasize reliability and discipline. Workers who can commit to completing contracts without abandoning their positions midway are highly valued. Many farms invest in visa sponsorship, training, and housing arrangements, so they prefer candidates who demonstrate dedication and consistency.
Some common tasks that unskilled agriculture laborers handle include fruit picking, packing, weeding, planting seeds, irrigation, pruning, livestock feeding, fencing, and farm maintenance. While these tasks may seem simple, they require physical strength and time management to meet farm quotas.
Average working hours for unskilled agriculture jobs in Australia typically range from 38 to 60 hours weekly, with some peak harvest seasons requiring even longer shifts. Workers are usually paid hourly, with rates ranging from AUD 22 to AUD 35 per hour, translating to the £2,500–£7,500 monthly salary bracket.
In summary, while no formal qualifications are needed, being fit, adaptable, and hardworking is essential to succeed in Australia’s agricultural sector in 2025.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Agriculture in Australia is geographically diverse, and pay rates differ depending on the region, crop type, and level of demand for workers.
Some areas offer higher wages because of the intensity of labor required, harsh weather conditions, or the remoteness of the location. Below are the top regions in Australia where unskilled agriculture laborers can expect the highest payment structures in 2025.
Queensland
Queensland is one of Australia’s leading states for fruit picking and sugarcane farming. Workers here earn between £2,800 and £6,000 monthly, especially in tropical fruit harvesting such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples. Employers often provide free or subsidized accommodation in regional towns.
New South Wales (NSW)
The NSW Riverina and Hunter Valley regions are booming with vineyards and crop production. Unskilled workers in grape harvesting and wine production earn between £3,000 and £6,500 monthly. During peak harvests, hourly wages can reach up to AUD 35.
Western Australia
Western Australia offers some of the highest wages for farm labor due to its remoteness and labor shortages. Workers in livestock stations and grain farms can earn between £3,500 and £7,500 monthly, with employers frequently offering visa sponsorships to attract international workers.
Victoria
Victoria’s fruit and vegetable farms, especially in Mildura and Shepparton, provide steady employment for unskilled laborers. Earnings here range from £2,600 to £5,800 monthly, with seasonal contracts being the most common.
South Australia
Known for its wine production and horticulture, South Australia provides wages between £2,800 and £6,000 monthly. Workers engaged in grape picking or almond harvesting often enjoy added bonuses during peak seasons. To put it in perspective, here is a breakdown of monthly earnings based on regions:
- Queensland: £2,800 – £6,000
- New South Wales: £3,000 – £6,500
- Western Australia: £3,500 – £7,500
- Victoria: £2,600 – £5,800
- South Australia: £2,800 – £6,000
Clearly, workers who choose remote areas such as Western Australia can secure higher pay compared to those who prefer more accessible farming regions. This makes location a key factor for those aiming to maximize their income.
Salary Expectations for Unskilled Workers in Australia
One of the primary reasons international workers seek unskilled agriculture labor jobs in Australia is the lucrative salary potential. Unlike many countries where unskilled labor is underpaid, Australia enforces strict minimum wage laws to protect both local and foreign workers.
The Fair Work Commission ensures that the minimum wage in Australia remains among the highest globally. As of 2025, the national minimum wage is AUD 24.10 per hour, which converts to approximately £13 per hour.
For unskilled agriculture workers who often work between 40 to 60 hours weekly, this translates to monthly earnings of £2,500 to £7,500. Salary distribution depends on several factors:
- Region: Workers in remote areas receive higher pay to compensate for difficult living conditions.
- Type of Farm Work: Livestock handling and grain farming typically pay more than fruit picking.
- Seasonal Demand: During peak harvests, wages rise due to labor shortages.
- Overtime: Many workers earn additional income from overtime pay, which is higher than standard hourly rates.
To illustrate, a fruit picker in Victoria working 45 hours a week at AUD 25 per hour would earn around £3,000 monthly, while a livestock worker in Western Australia working 55 hours weekly at AUD 32 per hour would earn closer to £7,200 monthly.
In addition to salaries, many employers provide incentives such as free accommodation, transportation allowances, and meal subsidies, which significantly reduce living costs and allow workers to save more.
For workers on sponsored visas, salaries are often structured to meet the government’s requirement for employer-sponsored positions. This means guaranteed minimum earnings that are legally protected, ensuring foreign workers are not exploited.
Overall, unskilled agriculture labor jobs in Australia in 2025 offer some of the most rewarding salaries for entry-level workers, making it an attractive option for those seeking overseas employment.
Visa Types and Options for Unskilled Workers in Australia
For international workers hoping to take advantage of agriculture jobs in Australia, securing the right visa is one of the most important steps. The Australian government has designed several visa programs to meet labor shortages in regional and rural areas, especially in farming and agriculture.
These visa categories give foreign nationals the legal right to work, earn, and in some cases, even transition towards permanent residency.
Seasonal Worker Program (SWP)
The Seasonal Worker Program is one of the most common visa options for unskilled workers in agriculture. It allows foreign workers from participating countries to work in Australia for up to 9 months in a year.
Employers in farming, fruit picking, and packing often rely on this program to fill immediate manpower gaps. Workers under this program typically earn between £2,500 and £4,500 monthly, depending on the hours worked.
Pacific Australia Labor Mobility (PALM) Scheme
This scheme combines both short-term seasonal work and long-term contracts, making it one of the most flexible visas for unskilled workers. The PALM scheme allows workers from Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste to work in regional Australia for anywhere between 3 months to 4 years. Many agriculture companies prefer hiring under this scheme because it ensures labor stability.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
Although traditionally used for skilled workers, some employers sponsor unskilled agriculture laborers under this visa if they can prove there are no Australians available to fill the role. This visa permits workers to stay for 2 to 4 years, with the potential to apply for permanent residency if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)
Young workers between the ages of 18 and 35 from eligible countries can apply for a Working Holiday Visa, which allows them to work in Australia for up to 12 months. Those who complete a minimum of 3 months of farm work can extend their visa to 24 or 36 months. This is a popular option for backpackers who want to combine travel with earning money through agriculture jobs.
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
For dedicated and experienced unskilled laborers, employers sometimes offer sponsorship under the Employer Nomination Scheme. While this visa is more commonly associated with skilled positions, in regional and rural labor shortages, unskilled agriculture workers may be sponsored if the employer provides sufficient justification.
In summary, the choice of visa depends on nationality, age, and the type of contract offered by the employer. Each visa has its own benefits, but all of them provide legal employment pathways, making it possible for unskilled laborers to secure well-paying jobs in Australia’s agriculture sector.
How to Secure Unskilled Agriculture Laborers Jobs in Australia
Securing an unskilled agriculture job in Australia requires more than just interest. Employers look for reliability, availability, and a willingness to relocate to rural regions where labor shortages are most severe. To increase the chances of success, applicants should take several important steps.
Prepare a Professional CV
Even though the jobs are considered unskilled, presenting a well-structured CV improves your chances. Highlight any previous labor-intensive experience such as farming, gardening, warehouse work, or construction. Employers appreciate workers who show evidence of reliability and physical stamina.
Apply Through Approved Programs
Programs such as the PALM scheme, the Seasonal Worker Program, and Working Holiday Visas have designated channels through which workers can apply. Using official government platforms ensures that your application is recognized and reduces the risk of scams.
Networking and Direct Applications
Many employers in regional Australia prefer to hire workers directly rather than through agencies. Sending direct applications to farms, vineyards, and livestock companies can open up opportunities. Networking with other foreign workers already in Australia also helps you discover ongoing recruitment.
Show Flexibility in Work Location
Employers often struggle to fill jobs in remote areas such as Western Australia or Northern Queensland. Workers willing to accept jobs in less populated regions are more likely to be offered higher salaries and quicker employment offers.
Work with Licensed Recruitment Agencies
There are licensed agencies that recruit foreign workers for Australian farms. However, applicants should be cautious and only work with government-approved recruitment agencies to avoid fraudulent schemes.
Demonstrate Commitment
Employers invest in accommodation, visa sponsorship, and training. To secure these jobs, applicants must convince employers of their willingness to stay for the contract duration. Those who abandon contracts prematurely risk being blacklisted.
By combining preparation, official visa application, and persistence, securing an unskilled agriculture labor job in Australia in 2025 is achievable for anyone who meets basic physical and work-readiness standards.
Companies Hiring Unskilled Workers in Australia
Australia’s agricultural sector employs thousands of unskilled laborers every year, with companies ranging from small family-owned farms to large agribusiness corporations. These employers hire through direct advertisements, labor mobility schemes, or recruitment agencies. Some of the most recognized employers include:
Costa Group
One of the largest horticulture companies in Australia, Costa Group operates across multiple states. They hire fruit pickers, packers, and farmhands, offering salaries that range between £2,600 and £5,800 monthly.
Harvest Trail Services (HTS)
HTS is a government-supported program that connects job seekers with seasonal agricultural work across different regions. Through this channel, thousands of unskilled laborers find work in fruit harvesting, packing, and vineyard maintenance.
Select Harvests
A leading almond producer in Australia, Select Harvests hires unskilled workers during peak harvest seasons. Workers often earn between £3,000 and £6,000 monthly, depending on overtime.
Rural Enterprises Australia
This recruitment agency partners with large-scale farms in Western Australia, supplying them with laborers for grain farming, livestock management, and general farm duties. Salaries often reach £7,500 monthly due to the remote nature of these jobs.
Regional Vineyards and Wineries
South Australia and New South Wales are home to hundreds of vineyards that hire grape pickers and wine production assistants. Wages range from £2,800 to £6,000 monthly, depending on the size of the vineyard and harvest season.
These companies and agencies provide reliable entry points into the agriculture sector, giving international workers access to both seasonal and permanent employment options.
Employment Websites to Find Unskilled Agriculture Laborer Jobs in Australia
The internet has become the easiest and most effective way for job seekers to connect with employers in Australia’s agricultural sector. Several platforms specialize in listing unskilled jobs, and applicants can filter opportunities based on location, visa eligibility, and job type.
Harvest Trail Website
Operated by the Australian Government, this website lists seasonal agriculture jobs across different states. It allows workers to apply directly to farmers who are seeking labor during peak harvest seasons.
SEEK Australia
SEEK is one of Australia’s largest job portals. It regularly features advertisements for unskilled agriculture roles, including fruit picking, livestock handling, and farm maintenance.
Indeed Australia
Indeed provides thousands of agriculture job listings daily. It is widely used by employers seeking international workers willing to relocate to regional areas.
JobActive
This government-supported portal lists verified agriculture vacancies. Employers using JobActive are required to comply with fair labor practices, making it a safe platform for international job seekers.
Backpacker Job Board
Although primarily aimed at working holiday visa holders, this platform lists thousands of farm jobs that are open to unskilled international workers.
When applying through these websites, job seekers should carefully check whether the employer is registered and if the job is eligible for visa sponsorship. It is also advisable to contact employers directly through official channels provided on these sites to avoid scams.
David Uc-Grant