Australia is not just known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities — it is also a global leader in agriculture and farming. In recent years, the Australian government has expanded immigration pathways to support the agriculture sector by welcoming foreign workers, particularly through farm jobs that offer visa sponsorship, competitive pay, and a clear path to permanent residency.
For Africans and other international job seekers looking for opportunities to live and work abroad, farm jobs in Australia present a promising option. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about securing a high-paying farm job in Australia with visa sponsorship in 2025.
Why Choose Farm Jobs in Australia?
1. High Demand for Workers
Australia faces a consistent shortage of local labor in the farming and horticultural sectors. This shortage opens up massive opportunities for foreigners willing to work in agricultural roles. Whether it’s fruit picking, livestock handling, or machinery operation, farms across the country are actively hiring.
2. Attractive Salaries
Farm jobs in Australia can pay up to AUD $40 per hour depending on the role, experience level, and location. Seasonal bonuses, overtime, and weekend premiums can also significantly increase your earnings.
3. Visa Sponsorship and PR Pathways
Many farm employers are approved sponsors under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. These programs allow foreign workers to legally work in Australia with the potential to apply for permanent residency (PR) after a certain period.
Top Farm Job Roles Available in 2025
Here are the most in-demand agricultural job roles that offer competitive salaries and visa support in Australia:
1. Fruit and Vegetable Picker
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Salary Range: AUD $25–$35/hour
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Responsibilities: Harvesting crops like apples, berries, and tomatoes.
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Locations: Victoria, Queensland, and Tasmania.
2. Livestock Farm Worker
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Salary Range: AUD $30–$40/hour
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Responsibilities: Feeding animals, cleaning pens, monitoring animal health, and assisting with breeding.
3. Tractor and Machinery Operator
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Salary Range: AUD $30–$40/hour
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Responsibilities: Operating farming machinery for planting, harvesting, spraying, and transporting produce.
4. Dairy Farm Assistant
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Salary Range: AUD $28–$38/hour
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Responsibilities: Milking cows, cleaning equipment, feeding livestock, and maintaining farm hygiene.
5. General Farm Laborer
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Salary Range: AUD $25–$32/hour
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Responsibilities: A combination of planting, fencing, irrigation, harvesting, and maintenance duties.
Visa Sponsorship Options for Farm Jobs
1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
This visa allows employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers in occupations that cannot be filled locally. Some specialized farm roles, such as machinery operators and livestock managers, qualify under this visa.
Key Benefits:
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Valid for up to 4 years
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Pathway to permanent residency
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Family members can accompany you
2. Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme
This scheme allows citizens from participating countries, including African nations like Ghana and Kenya (via bilateral agreements), to work in Australia’s agriculture sector for up to 4 years.
Key Benefits:
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Employer-sponsored
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Accommodation often included
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Health insurance coverage
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Weekly earnings paid directly
3. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462)
Although not employer-sponsored, this visa allows eligible youth aged 18–35 from certain countries to work in agriculture. Completing specified work can lead to extended stays or future sponsorship.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
Farm workers who perform well and secure long-term employment may be sponsored by their employer for permanent residency under programs like:
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Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186
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Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) – Subclass 187
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Skilled Regional Visa – Subclass 491
Requirements typically include:
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Working full-time for at least 2–3 years
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Meeting English language criteria
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Health and character checks
How to Apply for Farm Jobs in Australia (With Visa Sponsorship)
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
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Valid international passport
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Resume/CV (tailored for agricultural work)
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References from past employers (if available)
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Education or training certificates (if applicable)
Step 2: Search for Jobs via Trusted Platforms
Look for listings that mention “visa sponsorship” or “PALM-approved” employers.
Top Job Platforms:
Step 3: Apply Directly to Employers
Submit your application with a tailored cover letter. Emphasize your willingness to relocate, experience with physical labor, and any agricultural background.
Step 4: Secure Sponsorship and Begin Visa Process
If selected, your employer will guide you through the visa application process and provide necessary sponsorship documentation.
Life on an Australian Farm: What to Expect
Accommodation
Many employers provide free or subsidized housing near the farm. Conditions can vary but usually include basic amenities like shared kitchens, bedrooms, and internet access.
Work Conditions
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Long hours during harvest season
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Physically demanding tasks
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Opportunities for weekend and overtime pay
Living Expenses
Rural areas tend to have a lower cost of living. Food and accommodation costs are often deducted from your salary, but wages are structured to ensure fair pay.
Who Can Apply?
While most nationalities are eligible to apply for farm jobs in Australia, the following criteria are particularly favorable for Africans:
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Basic English communication skills
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Physically fit for manual labor
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Willingness to live in rural areas
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Clean criminal record
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Some experience in farming or construction (preferred but not required)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I move to Australia without prior farming experience?
Yes. Many farms offer on-the-job training. Enthusiasm and physical capability are often more important than experience.
2. Do I need IELTS for a farm job visa?
Not always. PALM Scheme and some sponsored roles may not require IELTS, but PR pathways usually do.
3. Are these jobs open to women?
Absolutely. Many farms hire both men and women for various roles.
4. Can I bring my family with me?
If you’re on a Subclass 482 or other skilled visa, yes. PALM Scheme workers may have restrictions, but options exist.
Final Thoughts
Farm jobs in Australia present a golden opportunity for Africans and other international workers to earn high wages, gain global work experience, and even transition to permanent residency. With visa sponsorship, decent pay (up to AUD $40/hour), and an inclusive immigration system, the agricultural sector in Australia continues to be a welcoming gateway for global talent.
If you’re seeking a reliable, legitimate way to relocate to Australia and secure employment in 2025, exploring sponsored farm jobs is one of the smartest steps you can take.
Tip: Apply early in the year (January–March) to align with Australia’s primary harvest seasons and maximize your chances of selection.