Apple Picking Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship 2026

Looking for a job that pays well, keeps you active, and doesn’t require prior experience? Apple picking in Australia offers just that. Most positions are paid per bin or kilogram of fruit, meaning your earnings directly reflect your effort motivated pickers often earn more than AUD $23 per hour.

The work is entirely physical, spent outdoors in the fresh air of Australia’s orchards, and no remote options exist, so if you love being on your feet, this is perfect. Whether you’re 18 or older, with a spirit for adventure and a strong work ethic, you don’t need formal experience training is provided, making it an ideal first job abroad or a way to fund your travels.

Role and Responsibilities of Apple Picking Jobs in Australia:

As an apple picker, your primary role is to harvest fruit efficiently and carefully to ensure quality. The job is physically demanding but rewarding.

• Key Duties:
  • Hand-picking ripe apples from orchards.
  • Carefully placing fruit into bags or bins to avoid bruising.
  • Sorting fruit and discarding any that are damaged or diseased.
  • Using and maintaining picking equipment like bags, ladders, and sometimes mechanical platforms.
  • Working as part of a team to meet daily harvesting targets.
  • Following all farm safety procedures and instructions.

Why Australia Needs Foreign Apple Pickers:

Australia’s horticulture industry relies on a large seasonal workforce to harvest crops. Local workers are often insufficient to meet the intense, short-term demand during peak harvest seasons (typically February to May). This creates a high demand for international workers willing to take on this vital role.

Key Benefits and What to Expect:

• Visa Sponsorship: Many farms are approved sponsors for various visa programs, providing a legal pathway to work.
• Competitive Piece Rates: While some jobs pay an hourly wage (AUD $20-$28), most pay per bin, bucket, or kilogram picked. Your earnings are directly tied to your effort and efficiency, allowing motivated pickers to maximize their income.
• Accommodation: Most farms provide affordable, shared on-site accommodation (e.g., dorm-style rooms, cabins). Costs are typically deducted directly from your paycheck.
• Work-Life Balance: Shifts are typically 6-10 hours per day, often 5-6 days a week during the peak season. The work is outdoors and physical.
• Cultural Experience: You will work alongside a diverse group of international travelers, making it a fantastic social and cultural experience.

Check Also: Canada Fruit Picking Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

Who is Eligible to Apply?

This is an accessible job with minimal barriers to entry. The essential requirements are:

• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Be physically fit and capable of manual labor in all weather conditions.
• Have a valid passport.
• Possess a basic understanding of English to follow safety instructions.
• Be reliable, punctual, and have a strong work ethic.

No prior farming experience is necessary. Training is provided on-site.

What’s the Visa Process Like:

The right visa for you depends on your nationality, age, and long-term plans. The most common options are:

• Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462):
  • For: Young adults (18-35) from eligible countries.
  • Details: Allows you to work and travel for up to 12 months. You can often extend for a 2nd or 3rd year by completing a specified period of regional agricultural work.
• Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme:
  • For: Citizens from participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste.
  • Details: This is a full sponsorship scheme. Approved employers can recruit workers for seasonal jobs (up to 9 months) or longer-term roles. The employer covers flights, accommodation, and visa costs.
• Other Sponsored Visas: For longer-term roles, some employers may sponsor skilled visas, but this is less common for entry-level picking positions.

Where are the Jobs Located?

Major apple-growing regions in Australia include:

• Tasmania (Huon Valley, Spreyton)
• Victoria (Goulburn Valley, Yarra Valley)
• New South Wales (Orange, Batlow)
• South Australia (Adelaide Hills)

How to Apply for Apple Picking Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship?

Follow these steps to secure a position:

• Prepare Your Documents:
  • An updated resume (highlight any physical work, reliability, and teamwork).
  • A copy of your passport.
  • Details of your current visa status or eligibility.
• Search for Jobs on These Platforms:
  • Government Job Boards: SeasonalWorkAU, Workforce Australia.
  • Specialized Websites: Harvest Trail, Fruit Picking Jobs Australia, Anywork Anywhere.
  • Recruitment Agencies: Many farms hire through agencies that specialize in agricultural labor.
  • Direct Contact: Search for “apple orchards” in your desired region and contact them directly via their website or phone.
• Apply:
  • Be clear about your availability and visa type (or need for sponsorship).
  • Be honest about your experience level and emphasize your willingness to learn and work hard.

Conclusion:

Apple picking in Australia offers solid earnings, simple entry requirements, and the chance to work outdoors with no prior experience needed. It’s a season filled with travel, community, and the thrill of turning hard work into memorable adventures. If you’re ready for a job that funds your journey and enriches it at the same time, the Australian harvest is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions: