Best Seasonal Jobs in Australia for Foreign Workers – Earn Up to $30/Hour (2025 Guide)

This comprehensive guide is designed to help foreign workers especially those on Working Holiday, Student, or other temporary visa understand the best seasonal jobs in Australia, where to find them, what you’ll earn, and how to get hired fast. You’ll also learn about essentials like taxes, superannuation, accommodation, transport, and safety so you can arrive prepared and make the most of your time down under.

How Seasonal Work in Australia Fits Together

Australia’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere:

• Summer: December–February

• Autumn (Fall): March–May

• Winter: June–August

• Spring: September–November

Because the country is huge and climate varies, harvests and peak tourism shift by state and region. You can “follow the sun” (or snow!) to string together work nearly all year.

Typical Seasonal Flow (One-Year Example)

• Dec–Feb (Summer): Hospitality on the coast (Queensland, NSW), cherry/stone fruit in Victoria & Tasmania, mangos/avocados in QLD/NT, holiday retail & events, seafood processing, delivery rush.

• Mar–May (Autumn): Grape harvest & wineries (SA, VIC, NSW), citrus in QLD/NSW/SA, farm labor, packing sheds, vintage cellar hands.

• Jun–Aug (Winter): Ski resorts (NSW Snowy Mountains, VIC Alpine region), winter citrus, pruning in vineyards, hospitality in warm Queensland, seafood in coastal WA/SA.

• Sep–Nov (Spring): Berries in Queensland/NSW/TAS, early harvests in WA, tourism ramp-up, festivals, horticulture planting.

Visa Basics (What You Need to Work)

• Working Holiday Maker visas: (e.g., Subclass 417 or 462): Popular for 18–30 (or 35 for some countries). Often allow short-term work with one employer and can be extended by completing specified work (e.g., certain regional or agricultural jobs).

• Student visa: Generally allows limited hours during study periods and more during official breaks; confirm current hour caps.

• Other temporary visas: Some permit work; check your grant letter and conditions.

• Tax File Number (TFN): Apply online after arrival; employers need it to pay you correctly.

• Superannuation: Employers usually contribute to your retirement fund if you meet earnings thresholds; you may be able to claim some back when you depart (conditions apply).

Pay & Conditions (Read This Before You Accept Any Job)

• Award system & minimums: Many seasonal jobs are covered by Fair Work “awards” (industry pay standards). Always verify the base hourly rate for your role and classification.

• Penalty rates: Higher hourly pay for nights, weekends, and public holidays.

• Casual loading: Casual employees often receive a percentage loading on top of base rates.

• Piece rates in horticulture: Some roles pay per bin, bucket, or kilogram. You should still take home at least the lawful minimum average. If you’re fast and conditions are good, piece rates can exceed $30/hour—but it varies.

• Payslips & contracts: You must receive a payslip; keep copies for your records and tax.

• Accommodation & transport: Remote farm jobs sometimes offer shared housing (deductions apply) or free camping for vans. Ask for costs upfront.

Top 12 Seasonal Job Categories (With Pay, Tasks, and Where to Find Them)

Below are the most reliable and popular seasonal options for foreign workers. Each section includes typical tasks, expected pay ranges, and peak locations/seasons. Pay varies by role, region, experience, and award; “up to $30/hour” is common across several categories when including penalties or high-demand windows.

1) Fruit Picking & Packing (Horticulture)

Why it’s popular: Entry-level friendly, lots of openings, and it can help Working Holiday visa holders qualify for extensions if the role meets specified criteria.

Typical tasks: Harvesting fruit/veg, pruning, thinning, weeding, sorting, packing, palletizing.

Pay:

• Hourly rates often align with horticulture awards; with casual loading and penalty rates, $24–$30+/hour is achievable.

• Piece rates can exceed $30/hour for fast pickers during peak, but they can also fluctuate with weather and crop quality.

Hot regions & seasons:

• Queensland: Mangos, avocados, bananas, berries (Summer/Spring).

• New South Wales: Citrus, berries, stone fruit (Spring–Summer).

• Victoria: Apples, pears, stone fruit, berries (Summer–Autumn).

• South Australia: Citrus, almonds, grapes (Autumn).

• Western Australia: Grapes, berries, veg (Spring–Autumn).

• Tasmania: Cherries, berries, apples (Summer).

Good to know:

• Start early; days can be long and outdoors.

• Bring sun protection, gloves, sturdy shoes.

• Ask about accommodation/transport provided by farms or hostels.

2) Vineyard Vintage & Cellar Work (Wine Industry)

Why it’s popular: The “vintage” crush season is a vibe—overtime, night shifts, and cellar roles can lift earnings.

Typical tasks: Grape picking, cellar operations (pumping over, additions, cleaning tanks), lab assistant work (Brix/pH tests), forklift operations (with license).

Pay:

• $25–$32/hour typical for casual vintage roles, more with penalties for nights/weekends. Skilled forklift or lab roles can pay higher.

Hot regions & seasons:

• South Australia: Barossa, McLaren Vale, Clare (Feb–Apr).

• Victoria: Yarra Valley, Mornington, Rutherglen (Feb–Apr).

• New South Wales: Hunter Valley, Riverina (Jan–Mar).

• Western Australia: Margaret River, Great Southern (Feb–Apr).

• Tasmania: (Mar–Apr).

Good to know:

• These jobs can be physically demanding but rewarding.

• Prior winery experience helps but isn’t required for entry-level harvest hands.

3) Hospitality & Tourism (Coastal Resorts, Cities, Outback Lodges)

Why it’s popular: Endless demand in holiday periods; tips in tourist centers; training provided for many roles.

Typical roles: Bar staff, café waitstaff, kitchen hands, housekeepers, receptionists, baristas, tour guides, resort all-rounders.

Pay:

• $25–$30/hour for casual roles is common, plus penalty rates on weekends/public holidays.

• Tipped roles (though tipping culture is lighter than North America) and staff meals/accommodation can add value.

Hot regions & seasons:

• Queensland (QLD): Cairns, Port Douglas, Airlie Beach/Whitsundays (Year-round, peak in Dry season).

• New South Wales (NSW): Sydney, Byron Bay, coastal towns (Summer & holidays).

• Western Australia (WA): Broome, Exmouth, Coral Coast (Dry season).

• Northern Territory (NT): Darwin/Kakadu/Uluru in Dry season.

• Tasmania (TAS): Summer tourism surge.

Good to know:

• Coffee culture is big—learn basic barista skills to stand out.

• RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate is required for serving alcohol (state-specific).

4) Ski Resorts (NSW & VIC)

Why it’s popular: Work in the snow, free/discounted lift passes, staff housing options, and a great social scene.

Typical roles: Lift attendants, rental techs, ski/board instructors (certification needed), café/hotel staff, ticket sales, retail, snowmaking.

Pay:

• Common casual rates $25–$30/hour, with overtime/penalties. Experienced roles (instructors, mechanics) can earn more.

Where & when:

• NSW: Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass.

• VIC: Mt Buller, Falls Creek, Hotham.

• Season: Typically June–September (weather-dependent).

Good to know:

• Hiring starts as early as Feb–Sept.

• Staff accommodation is competitive—apply early.

5) Seafood Processing & Aquaculture

Why it’s popular: Year-round operations with seasonal peaks; indoor work; reliable hours.

Typical tasks: Filleting, sorting, packing, quality control, cleaning, operating processing machinery, oyster shucking (with training), net maintenance.

Pay:

• $25–$30/hour typical for casuals; night shifts and cold-room allowances can bump earnings.

Hot regions:

• Tasmania: Salmon aquaculture.

• South Australia: Port Lincoln (tuna/seafood).

• Western Australia: Coastal processing facilities.

• Queensland/NSW: Prawn and fish processing, oysters.

Good to know:

• Cold environments; PPE provided.

• Consistent, structured shifts suit workers who like routine.

6) Warehouse, Parcel Sorting & Delivery (Logistics)

Why it’s popular: Peak seasons (pre-Christmas, sales events) mean overtime and night shifts with penalty rates.

Typical tasks: Picking/packing, scanning, palletizing, forklift operation (license helpful), unloading trucks, last-mile delivery.

Pay:

• $26–$32/hour casual rates are common, with higher pay for nights/weekends/public holidays.

Where & when:

• Major cities and distribution hubs: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide.

• Peaks: Oct–Dec (holiday rush), mid-year sales events.

Good to know:

• Safety shoes required; high-visibility vests often provided.

• Fitness helps: expect repetitive lifting and standing.

7) Events, Festivals & Stadiums

Why it’s popular: Fun atmosphere, flexible shifts, weekend penalties, great for meeting people.

Typical roles: Event setup/pack-down crew, ushers, ticketing, bar staff (RSA needed), food vendors, merch sellers, stagehands (experience helpful).

Pay:

• $26–$30/hour casual, with penalty rates on evenings/weekends.

• Short shifts add up during festival weekends.

Where & when:

• Capital cities and regional hotspots during Spring–Summer and public holidays.

• Music festivals, sports finals, New Year’s celebrations, food markets.

Good to know:

• Register with multiple staffing agencies to get more shifts.

• Comfortable shoes and a can-do attitude go a long way.

8) Holiday Retail (Peak Season)

Why it’s popular: Temporary contracts for Nov–Jan, ideal for Working Holiday Makers arriving late in the year.

Typical roles: Sales assistants, stockroom crew, cashiers, visual merchandisers.

Pay:

• $25–$29/hour casual, with public holiday rates paying significantly more.

Where:

• Shopping centers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and tourist towns.

Good to know:

• Customer service skills help; be ready for fast-paced shifts.

• Weekend availability is a big plus.

9) Remote Resort & Outback Work

Why it’s popular: Higher hourly rates or allowances, staff housing/board included, unique experience.

Typical roles: All-rounders (housekeeping + bar + reception), cooks, camp hosts, tour guides, groundskeepers.

Pay:

• $26–$32/hour typical; food/board deductions may apply but overall savings can be strong due to fewer living expenses.

Where:

• Northern Territory (NT), remote Queensland, outback WA/SA resorts and roadhouses.

Good to know:

• Prepare for heat and isolation; research the location and services.

• Great for saving quickly.

10) Landscaping, Grounds & Parks

Why it’s popular: Day shifts outdoors, satisfying physical work, recurring seasonal projects.

Typical tasks: Mowing, whipper snipping, planting, mulching, irrigation, basic maintenance.

Pay:

• $25–$30/hour casual common, higher for ticketed machinery operators.

Where:

• City councils, private contractors, resorts, golf courses across all states—peak in Spring–Summer.

Good to know:

• PPE and sun protection essential.

• A driver’s license helps.

11) Construction & Trades Assistant (Short-Term Projects)

Why it’s popular: Short projects, good hourly rates, learn practical skills.

Typical tasks: Site cleanup, basic laboring, assisting carpenters/electricians/plumbers (no license work), moving materials.

Pay:

• $28–$35/hour casual laboring in some regions, depending on experience and site rules; overtime/penalties apply.

Where:

• Major cities with ongoing builds and regional infrastructure sites.

Good to know:

• White Card (construction safety) required; quick online/in-person courses available.

• Steel-capped boots mandatory.

12) Farm Stay & Station Hand (Cattle/Sheep Stations)

Why it’s popular: Unique Aussie experience, room/board often provided, long days but memorable work.

Typical tasks: Animal feeding, fencing, water runs, mustering support (experienced riders only), general maintenance.

Pay:

• $25–$30/hour casual typical; package value rises with housing/meals.

Where & when:

• Outback stations in QLD, NT, WA, SA; busy windows align with mustering seasons and property projects.

Good to know:

• Remote and physical; safety training essential.

• Clarify hours, rest days, and accommodation standards in writing.

How to Get Hired Fast (Step-by-Step)

1) Decide your first stop
Pick a state/sector aligned with the month you land. If arriving in November, target cherry/stone fruit in TAS/VIC/NSW or holiday hospitality. If arriving in May, angle for vintage tail-end, outback tourism, or citrus.

2) Sort the admin early

• Apply for your TFN as soon as you have an Australian address.

• Open a local bank account (many banks let you start online).

• Get a local SIM for employer calls.

• Consider RSA (for bar work) or White Card (construction) if those interest you.

3) Build a one-page Aussie resume

• Keep it tight: contact info, right to work (visa), relevant experience, certifications, availability, and two referees.

• Add a line about license & vehicle if you have them—it’s a big plus in regional areas.

4) Hit multiple channels

• Major job boards, seasonal Facebook groups, staffing agencies, backpacker hostels, local newspapers, and walk-ins (especially in tourist towns).

• For farms, call growers/contractors directly; be ready to start soon.

5) Be flexible with shifts
Weekends and late nights pay more and get you hired faster.

6) Nail the quick interview

• Emphasize reliability, teamwork, and safety.

• Have your availability clear.

• Ask smart questions: “Is accommodation available?” “What are the typical hours per week?” “Are there penalty rates?”

7) Get it in writing

• Offer letter or message confirming rate, hours, location, accommodation cost/deductions, start date, and any required gear.

What You’ll Need (Gear & Personal Setup)

Essentials:

• Work boots (steel-capped for construction)

• Durable work pants/shorts; long sleeves for sun protection

• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Lightweight rain jacket

• Refillable water bottle (2L+ if outdoors)

• Gloves (gardening, leather)

• Headlamp for early starts/late finishes

• Backpack/duffel, phone power bank

• Copies of passport, visa grant, TFN receipt, certifications

Nice-to-haves:

• Car or campervan (massive advantage for regional gigs)

• Basic tool kit (for station/maintenance roles)

• Thermal layers for ski season jobs.

Accommodation & Transport (Save More, Stress Less)

• Farm hostels/worker hostels: Social, close to jobs, typically $150–$300/week depending on region and room type.

• Share houses: Use flat-share sites and local groups; prices vary widely by city/region.

• On-site staff housing: Common for remote resorts and some farms; costs deducted from pay—always ask for a breakdown.

• Campervans & camping: Many farms allow camping; ask about facilities and safety.

• Car sharing: If you don’t own a car, team up with coworkers to split fuel. Rural buses exist but are limited.

Taxes, Superannuation & Banking (Short & Sweet)

• Tax File Number (TFN): Apply online; without it you may be taxed at a higher rate.

• Tax withholding: Employers deduct tax from your pay; you may get a refund after filing a return at the end of the financial year.

• Superannuation: Employers contribute to your super if you meet rules; you might be able to claim some back when you leave Australia (conditions and tax apply).

• Payslips: Must be provided, keep them for tax and any visa evidence.

• Banking: Most big banks are backpacker-friendly; set up online and show ID in-branch when you arrive.

Safety & Worker Rights

• Know the minimums: Check the applicable award for your industry (hospitality, horticulture, retail, etc.).

• Health & safety: You can refuse unsafe work. Use PPE, stay hydrated, take breaks especially in heat.

• Zero tolerance for exploitation: If something seems off (no payslip, illegal deductions), seek help from official channels.

• Fair accommodation deductions: Ask for costs in writing; compare to local norms.

Budget Example (Regional Fruit Picking, Weekly)

With more hours, penalty rates, or cheaper accommodation, weekly savings can rise quickly.

How to Build a Year of Seasonal Work (Sample Itineraries)

Itinerary A: Sun-Chaser (Arrive October)

• Oct–Dec: Holiday retail + hospitality (Sydney/Melbourne)

• Dec–Feb: Cherries/berries in TAS/VIC + events shifts on weekends

• Mar–Apr: Vineyard vintage (SA/VIC)

• May–Jun: Citrus in NSW/QLD or seafood processing

• Jun–Sep: Ski resort season (NSW/VIC)

Itinerary B: Tropical Loop (Arrive April)

• Apr–May: Vintage tail-end (WA or SA)

• Jun–Aug: Hospitality/tours in QLD Tropics (Cairns/Whitsundays)

• Sep–Nov: Mango/avocado harvest (NT/QLD)

• Dec–Jan: Logistics peak (parcel sorting) or coastal hospitality

Itinerary C: Remote Saver (Arrive May)

• May–Oct: Outback resort all-rounder (NT/WA) with staff housing

• Nov–Dec: Warehouse peak (cities)

• Jan–Mar: Seafood processing (TAS/SA)

Standout Tips to Hit $30/Hour (or Close)

1. Leverage penalty rates: Volunteer for nights/weekends/public holidays.

2. Pick the right crops: Berries, cherries, and mangos during peak can pay very well (especially for fast pickers).

3. Skill up: A short barista course, RSA, White Card, or forklift license instantly widens your options and pay.

4. Go remote: Remote resorts and roadhouses often pay a bit more; inclusive housing reduces costs.

5. Network: Join staff groups, WhatsApp chats, and backpacker communities; word-of-mouth fills jobs fast.

6. Be the reliable one: Turn up early, say yes to extra shifts, and you’ll be the first called when the roster tightens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. I have zero experience. Can I still get seasonal work?
Yes. Many roles (fruit picking, housekeeping, dishwashing, event crew) are entry-level and trainable. Emphasize reliability and physical fitness.

Q2. Is piece rate bad?
Not necessarily. In peak conditions with good fruit and an efficient crew, you can out-earn hourly rates. But if you’re new or conditions are poor, hourly can be safer. Ask which applies before you start.

Q3. Do I need my own car?
It helps a lot for regional jobs. If not, look for farms with worker shuttles, stay in farm hostels with transport, or share rides with colleagues.

Q4. Can I extend my Working Holiday visa by doing seasonal work?
Possibly, if the work meets specified criteria and is completed in eligible locations/timeframes. Check official guidance for the latest rules.

Q5. How soon should I apply for ski resorts or vintage?
Start 2–4 months before the season; those roles fill early. Get your resume and references ready and apply widely.

Q6. What certificates are worth getting?

• RSA for serving alcohol

• White Card for construction sites

• Barista basics for café jobs

• Forklift license for warehouses.

Q7. How do I avoid scams/exploitation?
Never pay for a job offer. Get pay rates, hours, and accommodation costs in writing. Insist on a payslip. If something feels off, walk away and report it.

Copy-and-Use Resume Template (1 Page)

Name, Phone, Email, Local Address
Visa: [Type, expiry date, work rights]
Availability: [Start date, hours, weekends/holidays OK]
Objective: Reliable and safety-minded worker seeking seasonal roles in [industry/region]. Fit, punctual, and ready for early starts and long shifts.

Experience

• Role | Company | Location | Dates

  • Bullet #1 (key tasks, achievements)

  • Bullet #2 (equipment/certifications used)

• Role | Company | Location | Dates

  • Bullet #1

  • Bullet #2

Education & Training

• [Qualification] – [Institution] – [Year]

• Certificates: RSA (State), White Card, Barista, Forklift (LF), First Aid/CPR

Skills

• Customer service, cash handling, POS

• Heavy lifting, repetitive tasks, safe manual handling

• Teamwork, communication, time management

• Barista basics / Bar service / Housekeeping

• Driving (License: [Country/State]; Vehicle: Yes/No)

Referees

• Name – Position – Contact

• Name – Position – Contact

---

Cover Letter Snippet (Tweak & Send)

Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m a [visa type] holder available from [date] and keen to join your team as a [role]. I’m reliable, physically fit, and comfortable with early starts, long shifts, and weekend work. I hold [certificates], have [car/license if applicable], and can relocate on short notice.

I value safety, teamwork, and delivering great service. I’d love to discuss how I can help you through your peak season.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]

Red Flags to Watch For

• No written details: If a farm or employer won’t confirm rate, hours, or deductions in writing, be cautious.

• Unlawful cash deductions: Especially for accommodation/transport, ensure they’re reasonable and disclosed.

• No payslip: You’re entitled to one.

• Unsafe conditions: Missing PPE, no breaks in extreme heat, or pressure to ignore safety rules and walk away.

10 Quick Wins to Max Your Earnings

1. Target roles with penalty rates (hospitality, events, logistics).

2. Choose remote gigs with housing—save on rent and commute.

3. Work double seasons (e.g., harvest + vintage; summer coast + winter ski).

4. Train up (RSA/White Card/forklift) before applying.

5. Keep your resume one page and tailored.

6. Be reachable (local number, voicemail set up).

7. Ask for more hours politely when you’ve proved yourself.

8. Network with co-workers for next season leads.

9. Track your hours & payslips weekly.

10. Stay healthy, hydration, sunscreen, good boots.

Final Thoughts

Seasonal work in Australia offers a powerful blend of good pay, flexible schedules, and adventure. Whether you’re harvesting mangos in the tropics, pouring lattes in a coastal café, sorting parcels in the holiday rush, or carving your days off on a ski slope, there’s a role that can fit your visa, skills, and timeline.

With the right preparation clear visa status, a simple resume, the right certificates, and realistic expectations you can land work quickly, earn up to $30/hour, and string together a year (or two) of paid experiences across one of the most beautiful countries on earth.

Pack your boots and sunscreen the season is always starting somewhere in Australia.

Quick Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

• Visa work rights confirmed

• TFN applied

• Bank account opened

• Local SIM active

• Resume (1 page) + referees

• Certificates (RSA/White Card/forklift)

• Boots, gloves, hat, sunscreen, water bottle

• Transport or plan for shared rides

• Budget overview + emergency fund

• Accommodation research (hostel/house/on-site).