Author: sketch corp.

Working in Australian agriculture is a brilliant way to experience the beautiful sights of the outback, while gaining real-world experience in a thriving sector of our economy. Despite the excitement of working in another country, it’s normal to experience homesickness when you’re a long way from your family and friends. Staying connected with your loved ones whenever possible is a great way to deal with these feelings, and these days it’s fortunately easier than ever to keep in touch with everyone back home while you’re in Australia.

How to stay connected with family and friends overseas

In our modern society, there are many ways to stay connected with your family and friends in your hometown while you’re working in Australia.

Video calls
A number of online platforms offer video calling options – Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp and FaceTime are all great ways to connect with your loved ones. Video calling can feel more personal than simply sending a text message, and you might even like to give your family or friends a virtual tour of your home, to give them insight into where you’re staying.

Social media
With most of us now active on social media to some extent, apps such as Facebook or Instagram can be a great way to keep everyone at home updated on what you’ve been up to in Australia. Seeing your friends and family post on social media can also be a great way to feel connected and up-to-date on what’s happening in your hometown.

Send postcards or letters
Although “snail mail” might seem like an old-fashioned way to communicate, there’s something special about receiving mail – and it’s a great opportunity to make use of those postcards you might’ve collected while sightseeing. This option may be particularly attractive if you have older family members who aren’t tech-savvy.

Start a countdown to the next time you see them
If you’re missing your family and friends, having a shared countdown that marks the number of days until you’re reunited can be a fun way to get excited about being together again.

Tips for keeping in touch while you’re in Australia

Staying connected is simple these days, but there are some essentials to consider to ensure that you don’t have any issues when trying to communicate with your family and friends back home.

Internet connection
Although the internet is everywhere these days, the connection can get a bit patchy in remote areas of Australia. You might like to check if the place you’re staying has a reliable WiFi connection – and if not, your best bet is to purchase a local SIM card with international calling capabilities. Local cafes, libraries and shops often also have WiFi available if you get stuck.

Schedule regular down-time
There’s so much to do and see while you’re in Australia, it can be easy to forget to set aside time to rest and reconnect with family. Being well rested can also help ease feelings of homesickness, as the change to routine can feel particularly dramatic if you’re busy with work and travel each day. Having some quiet time to wind down in the evenings also offers the perfect opportunity to call or message everyone back home.

Working for Agri Labour Australia is an exciting opportunity – but even with all the amazing experiences on offer in Australia, it’s natural to miss your family and friends. Staying connected can help to ward off feelings of isolation or homesickness, and it’s easier now than ever before.

Moving to a new country for work can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its challenges – particularly when it comes to navigating differences. Australia, with its diverse population and unique cultural landscape, presents its own set of communication norms and cultural practices that may differ from those in Europe and Asian countries. Understanding these differences can help candidates from Europe and Asia adjust more smoothly to life and work in Australia. With that in mind, here’s a handy guide to some key cultural communication differences between Australia, Europe and Asian countries.

Directness vs. indirectness

• Australia
  Australians tend to value direct communication and appreciate honesty and openness in conversations. They may ask direct questions and expect straightforward answers.

• Europe
  Communication styles in Europe can vary depending on the country, but many European cultures value diplomacy and indirect communication, particularly when discussing sensitive topics.

• Asia
  In many Asian cultures, indirect communication is common, and people may use subtle cues or nonverbal gestures to convey their message. Face-saving and maintaining harmony are often prioritised over direct confrontation.

Australia hierarchy and formality

• Australia
  Australian workplaces often have a relatively flat hierarchy, with an emphasis on informal communication and egalitarian values. Addressing each other on a first-name basis is common, even with supervisors and managers.

• Europe
  European workplaces may have more formal hierarchies, with clear distinctions between superiors and subordinates. Titles and formalities are often used to show respect and deference.

• Asia
  Many Asian cultures place a strong emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority. Formal titles and deferential language are used when addressing seniors or individuals of higher status.

Communication styles

• Australia
  Australians are known for their laid-back and informal communication style, often using humour and sarcasm to lighten the mood. They value a relaxed and casual approach to interactions.

• Europe
  Communication in Europe may be more reserved and measured, with an emphasis on politeness and propriety. Small talk is less common, and conversations may focus more on professional topics.

• Asia
  Communication in Asia may be more indirect and nuanced, with an emphasis on maintaining harmony and avoiding confrontation. Nonverbal cues and context are often as important as the words spoken.

Sharing and connecting

• Australia
  Australians value diversity and multiculturalism, so candidates from Europe and Asia should feel welcome to share their cultural perspectives and experiences.

• Europe
  European expatriates may find similarities with Australian culture in terms of multiculturalism and openness to diversity, although specific cultural norms and practices may differ.

• Asia
  Candidates from Asian countries may encounter some cultural differences in Australia, but the country’s multicultural environment means there are opportunities to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Tips for adapting to Australian communication styles

• Be open-minded
  Approach cultural communication differences with curiosity and a willingness to learn.

• Observe and learn
  Pay attention to how locals communicate and adapt your style accordingly.

• Ask for clarification
  If unsure about cultural norms or communication practices, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or guidance.

• Build relationships
  Cultivate relationships with colleagues from different cultural backgrounds to gain insights and perspectives.

• Embrace diversity
  Appreciate the richness of diversity in Australia and celebrate the opportunity to learn from people with varied cultural backgrounds.

By understanding and adapting to cultural communication differences, you’ll be able to navigate the nuances of Australian culture more effectively – helping you to build positive relationships and thrive in your workplace. With an open mind and a willingness to learn, the transition to living and working in Australia can be a rewarding and enriching experience.

Congratulations on taking the leap to work and play in Australia! Known for its stunning landscapes and vast open spaces, Australia can present a unique challenge for overseas workers keen for safe travels around the country but unaccustomed to the country’s sheer scale.

Whether you’re travelling for leisure or moving between states for seasonal work, understanding the distances involved and the importance of reliable transportation is crucial for a successful experience.

Australia, the world’s sixth-largest country, is truly massive. To put it into perspective, the distance between major cities can be equivalent to crossing several European countries. For instance, Sydney to Melbourne spans over 800 kilometres (500 miles), while Brisbane to Cairns covers a whopping 1,700 kilometres (1,055 miles).

When it comes to regional travel, the distances can be even more staggering. Imagine finishing a job at Pittsworth in Queensland, and your next seasonal role is in Mildura, Victoria. That’s a journey of over 1,500 kilometres (930 miles), which requires careful planning and reliable transportation.

Prioritising transportation that’ll safely get you from A to B is essential. This may involve investing in a well-maintained vehicle, or exploring alternative options like carpooling with colleagues or utilising public transportation where available. While a cheap car might initially seem like a money-saver, breakdowns and repairs in remote areas are anything but economical. And that’s not to mention the potential dangers of travelling long distances in an unserviced vehicle.

Another challenge for overseas workers is the transition from metropolitan areas to regional towns. While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have well-developed transportation networks, reaching remote or rural locations can be considerably more challenging when considering safe travels.

In many instances, the nearest regional airport may still be several hours away from your final destination, requiring additional ground transportation like a rental car, rideshare service or organised transport provided by your employer.

The ultimate tip for safe travel around Australia is to plan ahead! Use online maps and resources to understand the distances involved between your jobs, ad factor in rest stops, potential for delays and fuel costs. 

By understanding how big Australia is and making sure you have reliable transport, you’ll be well on your way to turning your working holiday into an unforgettable Aussie adventure. 

When you come to work in Australia, it’s a good idea to set up a MyGov account, which is a simple way for you to access Australian government services.

These services include Centrelink, Medicare and the Australian Tax Office (ATO), and are helpful when you need to attend a doctor, lodge a tax return and more.

Once you’ve set up your MyGov account, you can:

• Receive secure messages from these services.
• Update your contact details with those services
• Access important information about those services.

How do I set up a MyGov account?

To set up an account, you need to visit the MyGov website and follow these simple steps.

1. Select ‘Create account’.
2. Select ‘Continue with email’.
3. Read the Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, then select Next.
4. Add your email address, and then select ‘Next’.
5. Add the code sent to your email address, then select ‘Next’.
6. Add your phone number if you would like to do so, then select ‘Next’.
7. Enter the code sent to your phone number if added, then select ‘Next’.
8. Add a password and then re-enter it.
9. Create your three secret questions and answers. Make sure they are answers you will remember.

And that’s it! Here’s a video to talk you through these steps:

Once you’ve created your account, you can follow the steps on the MyGov site to link your services, then download the MyGov app for easy access wherever you are.

Will you need to drive whilst having a work-and-travel adventure across Australia? If so, it’s important you know the road rules for driving safely to keep you and your travel companions happy and healthy.

Australia has vast landscapes and diverse destinations that make it a dream to explore. However, driving in Australia – and especially long distances – comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Before you start driving, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with Australian road rules and driving conditions.

Key things to consider for safe travels:

• Drive on the left – unlike most countries, Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you’re not used to this, practise before you drive on our main roads to ensure you’re driving safely.
• Stick to the speed limits – speed limits vary across states and territories, with urban areas typically having a 50 km/h default, and highways ranging from 100 km/h to 110 km/h. Always be mindful of posted signage and adjust your speed accordingly.
• Know what the colour means on a traffic light – when the light is red it means you must stop. Slow down to stop when it’s orange, and you can safely drive through the intersection when the light is green.
• Plan your journey – when travelling in Australia you can cover long distances, so it’s important to plan your journey carefully – taking into account rest stops, fuel stations and accommodations, particularly if you’re embarking on a long-distance drive.
• Prepare for remote travel – parts of Australia are sparsely populated, with long stretches of road between towns and services. If your journey takes you through remote areas, ensure you’re adequately prepared. Carry extra water, food and emergency supplies in case of unexpected delays or breakdowns. It’s also advisable to have a reliable communication device, such as a satellite phone or emergency beacon, in case of emergencies.
• Watch out for wildlife – you need to be extra cautious – especially at dawn, dusk, and nighttime – as animals like kangaroos and emus may wander onto the roads. Reduce your speed when driving safely and be prepared to brake suddenly.
• Respect the conditions – be mindful of the weather and road conditions. Adjust your driving accordingly for rain, fog, or unsealed roads.
• Stay alert and rested – long hours behind the wheel can take a toll on even the most experienced drivers. Avoid fatigue by taking regular breaks and alternating driving if travelling with companions. Be mindful of early warning signs of fatigue, such as yawning, heavy eyelids or difficulty maintaining concentration.
• Don’t use your mobile phone – it’s illegal to use a handheld mobile phone when driving for calls or texts, and you must not rest your phone on any part of your body or you may face a fine.
• Driving with an overseas licence – you can drive on Queensland roads with a valid overseas licence, but you have to follow the vehicle authorisation and licence conditions set by your overseas licence authority. Always carry your overseas licence and an International Driving Permit or English translation (if applicable) when driving.
• Seatbelts save lives – don’t forget that you and any passengers must wear a seatbelt when driving.

By following these tips and being informed, you can stay safe on the roads while working and holidaying in Australia.

Are you a traveller looking to visit Australia and experience all the country has to offer without burning through your savings? 

Fruit picking jobs in the agriculture industry may be the perfect opportunity to strike a balance between work and play – and right now, seasonal work is ripe for the picking from coast to coast. 

Agri Labour Australia has a wide range of roles available for travellers to fund their adventures Down Under, providing they have the correct work visa. 

Most fruit picking jobs are found in regional and remote areas of Australia, where much of the nation’s fresh produce is grown. These positions are a great way for temporary foreign workers and locals alike to explore and experience all that a regional lifestyle has to offer.  

If you’re ready to make money while exploring a new environment, short-term agricultural work may be the answer. Often the process begins with a simple application. Before taking that step, however, it’s important to make sure that you know the realities of fruit picking and what to expect. Whether you’ve worked in the field before or not, it’s only natural to have a few questions. Perhaps you’re wondering:

If you’re considering funding your Aussie backpacking trip with a job in the agriculture industry, you may have a few questions about the process of finding work. For example, our candidates often want to know:

What skills do I need to become a fruit picker?

How do I become a fruit picker in Australia?

How much do fruit pickers earn in Australia?

Where can I find the best fruit picking work in Australia?

What else is there to do while I’m in Australia?

To help you pick the right job for you and get your working holiday started sooner, we’ve collated the answers to each of these questions below.  

What skills do I need to be a fruit picker? 

Physical fitness, the ability to work quickly and consistently for long periods of time, and a can-do attitude are the most sought-after qualities in workers on fruit farms. 

Fruit picking jobs can be physically demanding, often requiring workers to make repetitive physical movements like squatting, bending and climbing ladders. The workers best suited to these jobs are those who genuinely enjoy practical work. 

While speed on the job is important, especially in piece-rate jobs, workers must be nimble enough to practise gentle harvesting techniques and pick fruit without causing damage to the produce. It’s also important that workers have enough basic knowledge of fresh produce to separate and discard fruits showing signs of decay or insect infestation. 

Finally, flexibility in terms of working hours is also essential as working hours will often depend on the amount of produce waiting to be picked. 

How do I become a fruit picker in Australia?

Many fruit picker jobs in Australia do not require experience or industry-relevant qualifications, which makes them ideal for enthusiastic young travellers. While there are several potential pathways into fruit picking work, it’s important to keep compliance in mind. Below are a couple of popular approaches: 

Go through a recruitment agency
In the agriculture industry, contacting a specialist recruitment agency is the best way to make sure that you secure work with a compliant organisation. A good agency will advocate for you during the application stage, assist you with acclimatising to your new environment, and give you all of the information and support you need to be successful in your new job. 

Apply via a job search website
Websites like Seek and Indeed often list farm work jobs, fruit picking positions included. Unless you are familiar with the employer in question, taking this approach to job applications in the agriculture industry involves some inherent risk in terms of ensuring compliance and negotiating agreements. If you decide to take this approach, be sure to carefully check the details of each listing and the contract information.  

How much do fruit pickers earn in Australia?

The pay fruit pickers receive will depend on the pay structure, whether piece rate or hourly wage. Jobs paid at an hourly rate offer the benefit of compliance, paying at or above the industry standard minimum wage. While piece-rate workers now also receive a minimum hourly wage, the pay structure still incentivises workers for speed and efficiency, allowing them to increase their earnings. Either way, it’s important that candidates have a good understanding of what they will be paid before applying for or accepting a new job. 

Where can I find the best fruit picking work in Australia?

While fruit pickers are needed across the country at different times of year, job availability depends on the weather conditions and the fruit being harvested. The latter is determined largely by the season, and while peak picking season generally runs from December until May, this timing can vary based on conditions. In the southern states, from South Australia to Victoria and New South Wales, November to February is peak picking time, whereas the season typically lasts until May in northern Queensland and New South Wales. 

With limited accommodation available, it’s also important to consider housing as a key factor when applying for and accepting jobs. Increasingly, workers are turning to nearby towns for accommodation within easy travelling distance of their workplace.  

What else is there to do while I’m in Australia?

From Queensland’s sprawling Daintree Rainforest to the idyllic beaches in Western Australia, there are more tourist attractions Down Under than there is time to explore them all! If you’re planning on working in one place, you’ll have plenty of time to get to know the local area and immerse yourself in the community alongside your workmates. 

On the other hand, if you plan to see as much of the country as possible, Agri Labour Australia’s Harvest Trail opens up wide-ranging opportunities to earn money and make memories in Australia’s agriculture industry. Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef of the North Queensland coastline, visit the Sydney Harbour Bridge or head down to South Australia and ride a camel. When you have access to ongoing work, the options are as broad as the country itself! 

Want the pick of the best jobs in Australia?

There’s so much to explore around Australia and with harvests ongoing throughout the year, fruit picking is a great way to achieve your travel goals. With a fruit picking job that aligns with your travel plans, you’ll have the opportunity to experience life on the land like so many of the candidates who have become part of #myagrifamily. To find out more about what it’s like to work in the Aussie ag industry, check out candidate testimonials or read stories from our past candidates on our blog. 

Talk to the agricultural recruitment specialists  

If you’re looking for work in the Australian agriculture industry, Agri Labour Australia has a wide range of opportunities to suit your skills and preferences. We have been recruiting workers in the agricultural industry since 2010, and our candidate care policy makes us an employer of choice for thousands of workers across our international networks. When you secure a position with Agri Labour Australia, you don’t just take a job – you become part of a family. Our thousands-strong #myagrifamily candidate network is always growing.

Want to join us on a job? This is your chance to earn and experience more. Click here for more information about our available opportunities.

Are you planning to backpack your way around Australia and looking for a way to fund your adventures as you go? Backpackers are in consistently high demand on farms around the country, and if you want to earn, explore and experience the best of Australia, securing a farm job can allow you to do both.

Backpackers who find work through Agri Labour Australia have the opportunity to travel far and wide while earning a good wage – an ideal solution for travellers who want to work amongst truly unique regional scenery, from the bright orange plains and brilliant sunrises to glorious starry nights.

If you’re considering funding your Aussie backpacking trip with a job in the agriculture industry, you may have a few questions about the process of finding work. For example, our candidates often want to know:

How do I get a farm job in Australia?

What jobs are available on a farm?

What is considered regional work in Australia?

Do you get paid for regional work in Australia?

How much does farm work pay in Australia?

What is the best place to do farm work in Australia?

We’ve compiled the answers to all of these questions in one place for you below.  

How do I get a farm job in Australia?

In order to get a backpacker job in Australia, the first thing you’ll need is the legal right to work in the country. For those travelling from overseas, this means applying for and securing the appropriate visa for the type of work you intend to do. For more information on the different visa categories and the terms relating to each, visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.  

 Once all of the relevant documentation has been arranged and approved, it’s time to start making applications. The challenge, then, is determining which job will be the best fit for you – particularly if you have not worked in the agriculture industry before. As job availability can vary by location and season, it’s wise to research the work opportunities that coincide with your planned trip. Finding a job that offers good conditions, suits your strengths and aligns with your travel plans may require the expertise of a certified, compliant agricultural recruitment agency may be the best approach, particularly for new entrants to the industry. Then, with the right job, fair treatment and good pay, you’ll be able to enjoy your Australian adventure to the fullest. 

What jobs are available on a farm?

Given the variety of job opportunities available on farms all year round, it’s important to go in with an understanding of the type of work you want to do. Out in the field, there’s an abundance of work available, from fruit picking and crop harvesting to operating various machinery, provided you have the right licence. If you prefer to work indoors, there are also plenty of jobs available in packing and weighing facilities. Given that you could be working long days in the job you choose, it’s important to find something that you enjoy. This way, even the longest days will be memorable for the right reasons. 

What is considered regional work in Australia?

Regional work generally refers to any work done in the agriculture, forestry, mining, construction and fishing industries. While international workers often take on these jobs to meet their visa work obligations and extend their stay in Australia, the opportunities are also available to locals. 

Do you get paid for regional work in Australia?

Yes – provided that you go through a compliant employer, any regional work you do should be paid at or above award rates; however, the final rate of pay may differ depending on the level of skill and experience required for the job and the employer’s pay structure. In addition to the information you’ll receive from employers, it’s important to do your own research into the correct rates of pay for the industry and type of work so that you can go into the job knowledgeable and prepared. 

How much does farm work pay in Australia?

For a prospective farm worker, the agriculture industry is full of opportunities to fund your travels, top up your savings or send money to your family overseas. However, as pay can vary by role, employer award and pay structure (hourly wage or piece rate), it’s important to get familiar with standard rates for your industry and position. Those who are able to work quickly and consistently over long periods of time have the potential to rake in significant financial rewards, particularly under a piece rate pay structure, and highly experienced candidates may be eligible to take on more senior positions and earn higher rates.

Where is the best place to do farm work in Australia?

“Farm work” is a blanket term for a wide variety of job opportunities, and with reputable employers stationed across the country, there’s almost no limit to what you could see and experience in the Aussie outback. With so much on offer, the idea of the “best” place to do farm work becomes subjective – however, as the type of work available in the agriculture industry can vary significantly depending on location, it is a major factor in many candidates’ job selection. 

Workers with the travel bug may choose their jobs based on proximity to Australia’s many unique tourist destinations and attractions. Of course, if there are many different attractions on your agenda, Australia’s harvest season offers the perfect opportunity to extend your working experience and travel across the country. To find out more about available harvest roles, click here. 

Ready for the ultimate backpacker experience in Australia? 

There’s so much to explore around Australia, and with such a wide variety of roles on offer, it’s a great time to embrace the backpacker lifestyle. With a job that aligns with your travel plans, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of life on the land like so many of the candidates who have become part of #myagrifamily. To find out more about what it’s like to work in the Aussie ag industry, check out our candidate testimonials or read stories from our past candidates on our blog. 

Talk to the agricultural recruitment specialists  

If you’re looking for work in the Australian agriculture industry, Agri Labour Australia has a wide range of opportunities to suit your skills and preferences. We have been recruiting workers in the agricultural industry since 2010, and our candidate care policy makes us an employer of choice for thousands of workers who come from overseas to work, travel and play in Australia. When you secure a position with Agri Labour Australia, you don’t just take a job – you become part of a family, and our thousands-strong #myagrifamily candidate network is always growing.

Want to join us on a job? This is your chance to earn and experience more – click here for more information about our available opportunities.

Are you ready to start a new adventure in the second half of 2022 – one that gives you the opportunity to see Australia while earning good money and gaining agricultural experience?

Agri Labour Australia places hard-working candidates from all walks of life (locals, students, holidaymakers, veterans, grey nomads, you name it) into rewarding harvest roles with employers across Australia.

From the pristine coastline of North Queensland to the mountain ranges of New South Wales and beyond, our harvest calendar is full and there are plenty of positions that need to be filled.

Our team is currently recruiting for several major projects running from July until December, including the almond, citrus, mango, blueberry and grain harvests – as well as jobs in tree planting. We’ve provided a brief summary of each opportunity below, with links to additional information and how to apply.

 

How do I know if agriculture work is right for me?

Agriculture is a broad industry encompassing a wide range of roles, from general labouring and machinery through to management and administration. If you’re willing to work hard, you’ll find plenty of rewarding seasonal opportunities on offer across the country.

What is the pay for each harvest role?

We encourage you to take a look at the role you’re interested in via the links in the table above, or via our job board, as pay rates can differ according to harvest and role.

Do I need a visa to accept agricultural work with Agri Labour Australia?

You’ll need to be either an Australian citizen / Permanent Resident, or have the correct visa for the work you intend to do. As part of our commitment to compliance, our team completes VEVO checks to ensure that you have the right to work in Australia before your application progresses.

Why should I take a job with Agri Labour Australia?

At Agri Labour Australia, we’re always looking for great people to join our team, and we’re committed to making sure our harvest workers – the newest members of My Agri Family – are safe, healthy and happy during their time with us. As Australia’s largest agricultural recruitment agency, we can also offer a wide variety of work opportunities across the country.

If you want to work for a company that works hard for you, check out our current opportunities or send us an enquiry.

A big thanks to everyone who entered our first #myagrifamily Instagram photo competition in June. 

We received so many entries, and it was a fantastic reminder of the unforgettable memories, scenery and friendships that our candidates experience each year. 

While it was challenging to select a winner, one submission stood out from the rest…  

Congratulations to our photo comp winner, Cherry Navira! 

Taken during the rice harvest on a stunning day in rural NSW, Cherry captured this picture with her agri family. 

A huge thanks to all of the candidates who entered the competition and shared your memories. We’ve combined some of the entries in the video below for you, and you’ll find the rest on our Instagram page @agrilabourau. 

If you want to join us on a harvest and make memories like these, head over to our job board.