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Seasonal workers

As a Seasonal worker, you can both work and play in the Mildura region. Mildura is well known as a haven for Seasonal workers with an abundance of large fruit properties needing many willing hands to harvest their valuable crop.

Mechanical harvesting has reduced the need for as many farm hands as were once needed and while this work still exists it can be harder to find at certain times of the year.

If you are coming to Mildura only for farm work, we recommend that you do some research before travelling to ensure that work is available. A good place to start is by contacting the National Harvest Labour Information Service on 1800 062 332 (within Australia) or visit www.harvesttrail.gov.au they will give you up to date advice on work and conditions in the area and only list jobs for farmers that do the right thing by their workers.

MADEC Australia operates Australian Government Harvest Labour Offices in Mildura has strong links with the areas’ growers to contact them about farm work you can click here.

Our visitor information and booking centres will help you find a hostel that has a good reputation – However we urge you to do your research before choosing a hostel or accepting any work.

Many hostels offer work and transport, which means that you can enjoy your time in Mildura while earning extra dollars. When the working day is finished you can relax at the numerous entertainment venues such as pubs and nightclubs. There are a number of restaurants that cater for the backpacker at reasonable prices.

Mildura boasts a wealth of opportunities to earn cash and experience the country lifestyle as you enjoy your travel adventure. As is the case wherever you travel you need to look out for your own personal safety and security. This also applies when accepting work and entering accommodation arrangements.

To safeguard yourself some good habits to get into are:

  • Always ask for a receipt of payment and hold onto it
  • Look for the accommodation house's certificate of registration (usually on the wall in the lobby area)
  • Ask how and when you are being paid - make sure you understand these arrangements
  • Seek assistance early if you think something is wrong

While most employers and landlords do the right thing, there is a minority that set out to take advantage of adventurous, trusting and vulnerable people – this is the same wherever you travel in Australia.

This information provided by Mildura Regional Development should be taken into account wherever you choose to visit.

We want your time in Mildura to be enjoyable and productive. Your feedback, both positive and negative, will assist Mildura Regional Development to work with local operators and farmers to deliver the best possible experiences.

Seasonal workers have the same rights at work as other employees in Australia. Seasonal workers are covered by the minimum entitlements under the National Employment Standards. They may also get entitlements from an award or registered agreement. Awards that cover the industries seasonal workers are allowed to work in are: Aquaculture Award, Horticultural Award, Hospitality Award, Pastoral Award, Sugar Industry Award. Contact Fair Work Australia on 1300 799 675 or inquiries@fwc.gov.au with any specific pay enquiries or visit https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/community-assistance/seasonal-worker-programme
A normal day is 8 hours, generally starting between 6-7am and finishing around 3.30pm. In the middle of the season work can be 7 days a week depending on the demand of the product.
Your Pay-day will vary for each farm depending on their pay cycle but most will fall on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. Employers won't pay in advance so you must have enough money to last until then. Don't be afraid to ask your employer for a payslip.

There are many hostels in the area who can also assist you in finding work as well as providing transport to/from work. Alternatively, tents, caravans and farm stays are sometimes provided where you work. You may also choose to stay at the closest caravan park or pub. Do your research before deciding where to stay.

Click here to view accommodation in the Mildura region. 

If not staying on site, you will need to arrange your own transport. Several hostels in and around the Mildura region may provide transport however, it could involve a cost - please make your own decision and make sure you are comfortable with any charge as it may be deducted from your wage.
You need a small brim hat that protects your head and neck. Long sleeve shirt, hard-wearing pants, solid boots or shoes, sunscreen, water bottle, food and insect repellent.
The work is repetitious and tiring and often undertaken in hot conditions. You need to be reasonably strong, fit and active.