New South Wales Farm Jobs

338 Agricultural Opportunities Available

Discover harvest, livestock, dairy and specialized agricultural positions across New South Wales

Find diverse farm work opportunities across NSW, Australia’s largest agricultural state, with competitive wages and positions ranging from harvest work to specialized agricultural roles.

New South Wales Farm Jobs

List of 338 Farm Jobs

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What are farm jobs in NSW?

Farm jobs in NSW are employment opportunities within the agricultural sector across New South Wales, Australia’s largest agricultural state. These positions range from entry-level fruit picking and general farm hand roles to specialized positions in livestock management, crop production, and agricultural technology. With 791 agriculture jobs currently available on SEEK and over 1,199 farm work positions listed on Jora, NSW offers diverse agricultural employment opportunities across its regional areas.

How many farm jobs are available in NSW?

NSW currently has significant agricultural employment opportunities with the following job listings:

  • 791 Agriculture jobs on SEEK
  • 723 Farm-specific positions on SEEK
  • 247 Farming jobs on Adzuna
  • 1,199 Farm work jobs on Jora
  • 100+ Farming positions on Indeed

These numbers reflect a critical labor shortage in the sector, with 57% of Australian horticulture farms experiencing difficulty recruiting workers and a 23% decrease in NSW’s agricultural workforce over the past three years.

What is the total employment in NSW agriculture?

Total employment in NSW agriculture represents a significant portion of Australia’s 274,900 agricultural workers as of November 2024. NSW, along with Victoria and Queensland, accounts for 74% of national agricultural employment, making it one of the three largest agricultural employers in Australia. The state’s agricultural workforce has experienced a 23% decline over the past three years, dropping from higher historical levels due to reduced overseas workers and an aging farmer demographic. Despite this decline, NSW agriculture remains a major employer with 306,031 people working across the broader Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing industry nationally, with NSW holding the largest share among Australian states.

What is the average salary for farm workers in NSW?

The average salary for farm workers in NSW is $68,281 per year as of December 2024. Farm worker wages in NSW fall under the Pastoral Award and other agricultural awards, with minimum wages set to increase by 3.5% starting July 1, 2025. Junior workers under 20 years receive adjusted rates, and the Fair Work Commission provides a Pay and Conditions Tool for calculating specific rates based on job classifications and experience levels.

What are the salary ranges for different farm jobs in NSW?

Salary ranges for different farm jobs in NSW vary significantly based on role and experience:

  • Entry-Level Farm Hands: $45,000-$55,000 per year, often with accommodation included
  • Fruit Pickers & Seasonal Workers: $25-$30 per hour during peak seasons, with piece rates common
  • Livestock Workers & Shearers: $55,000-$70,000 annually, with experienced shearers earning up to $400+ per day
  • Farm Supervisors: $65,000-$85,000 per year depending on farm size and complexity
  • Agricultural Machinery Operators: $60,000-$75,000 annually with additional certifications
  • Farm Managers: $75,000-$120,000 per year for medium-sized operations
  • Agricultural Specialists: $80,000-$175,000 for roles in agronomy, agricultural technology, and specialized consulting

Working Holiday Makers should note that registered employers tax the first $45,000 at 15%, while non-registered employers withhold at 32.5%, significantly impacting take-home pay.

How to find agricultural work in New South Wales?

To find agricultural work in New South Wales, there are 5 steps:

Firstly, search major job platforms including SEEK, Indeed, Jora, and specialized sites like Backpacker Job Board and Agri Labour Australia for current listings.

Secondly, target specific regions based on seasonal demand - focus on areas like Orange, Griffith, Coffs Harbour, and the Hunter Valley which have consistent agricultural employment needs.

Thirdly, contact Working Holiday Maker-registered employers directly if you hold a 417 or 462 visa, ensuring they’re registered with the Australian Taxation Office.

Fourthly, utilize government resources like NSW’s “Help Harvest NSW” program which connects workers with seasonal employment opportunities across the state.

Fifthly, consider enrolling in TAFE NSW’s fee-free agricultural training programs to increase your employability and access to specialized positions.

What types of agricultural jobs are available in NSW?

The types of agricultural jobs available in NSW include:

  • Livestock Management: Positions working with sheep, cattle, and pigs including farm hands, shearers, and livestock handlers
  • Fruit Picking & Horticulture: Seasonal roles harvesting grapes, oranges, apples, cherries, pears, and berries across different regions
  • Grain Production: Jobs in wheat, maize, and hay farming including planting, harvesting, and equipment operation
  • Viticulture: Wine industry positions including grape picking, pruning, and vineyard maintenance
  • Farm Management: Supervisory and management roles overseeing farm operations and staff
  • Specialized Positions: Dairy workers, poultry farm staff, irrigation specialists, and agricultural technology operators
  • Packing & Processing: Roles in produce sorting, packing, and quality control at processing facilities

What are the best regions for farm work in NSW?

The best regions for farm work in NSW are:

  1. Griffith - Major agricultural hub offering grape picking, orange harvesting, and onion farming opportunities throughout the year
  2. Orange & Bathurst - Cold climate fruit production specializing in apples and stone fruits with consistent employment
  3. Coffs Harbour - Leading blueberry and banana production region with year-round harvesting opportunities
  4. Hunter Valley - Premier wine region offering viticulture positions and seasonal grape picking work
  5. Wagga Wagga - Diverse agricultural center with grain, livestock, and horticulture employment
  6. Northern Tablelands - Berry production and mixed farming region with seasonal and permanent positions
  7. Liverpool Plains - Major grain and cotton producing area with harvest and farm hand opportunities

What are the seasonal farming jobs in NSW?

Seasonal farming jobs in NSW follow distinct harvest calendars:

  • Peak Season (November-April): Maximum employment opportunities across all crop types with February being the busiest month
  • Citrus Harvesting: Various seasons depending on variety, providing work from autumn through spring
  • Stone Fruit Picking: Cherries (November-January), peaches and nectarines (December-March), plums and apricots (December-February)
  • Berry Seasons: Extended harvesting periods in tablelands regions from October through May
  • Grape Harvesting: January through April for wine grapes, varying by region and variety
  • Winter Crops: Grain harvesting (November-January) and planting seasons (April-June)

How to get a Working Holiday visa for farm work in NSW?

To get a Working Holiday visa for farm work in NSW, there are 4 steps:

Firstly, determine your eligibility based on your country - Subclass 417 is available for 19 countries including UK, Canada, Germany, and Japan, while Subclass 462 covers 26 countries including USA, China, and Vietnam.

Secondly, apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website, providing required documentation including passport, proof of funds, and health insurance.

Thirdly, complete 88 days of specified agricultural work to qualify for a second-year visa extension, ensuring your employer is registered with the ATO as a Working Holiday Maker employer.

Fourthly, understand the tax implications - with registered employers, your first $45,000 is taxed at 15%, while non-registered employers must withhold tax at 32.5%.

What training programs are available for farm workers in NSW?

Training programs available for farm workers in NSW include:

  • TAFE NSW Fee-Free Programs: 70,000 fully subsidized traineeships available until June 2025 in agriculture, forestry, and fishing
  • Certificate Courses: Fundamental farming skills training covering crop production, livestock management, and agricultural practices
  • Diploma of Agriculture (AHC50122): Advanced qualification preparing students for management roles in the agricultural industry
  • Apprenticeships: 3-4 year programs combining on-the-job training with formal education, typically working 4 days and training 1 day per week
  • AgSkilled Program: NSW Government initiative with $5 million funding providing specialized agricultural workforce training
  • Tocal College Programs: Accredited training focused on farm safety and online diplomas in agriculture and land management
  • Agricultural Technology Courses: Training in precision agriculture, farm management software, and IoT device implementation

What accommodation options exist for farm workers in NSW?

Accommodation options for farm workers in NSW typically include employer-provided housing as part of employment packages. Many farm positions offer free accommodation in private cabins, shared houses, or on-site housing facilities. While NSW lacks specific government policy for farm worker accommodation compared to states like Queensland, the $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation program demonstrates government recognition of housing as a critical factor in attracting workers to rural areas. Job listings frequently highlight accommodation availability, with positions in areas like Berrigan, Finley, and Bodalla specifically including housing as part of the employment offer.

What technology is transforming NSW farm jobs?

Technology transforming NSW farm jobs includes widespread adoption of agricultural technology (AgTech) solutions. Currently, 72% of NSW farmers actively use AgTech in their operations, with 89% having used or considering these technologies. The NSW Government’s Farms of the Future program, running until June 2028, provides training and grants for digital adoption. Key innovations include AI-powered advisory systems, blockchain traceability for supply chains, IoT integration connecting farm sensors with satellite data, and precision agriculture tools for crop and livestock management. Farm management software leads adoption rates, helping farmers with paddock mapping, biosecurity planning, and operational efficiency.

Why is NSW experiencing farm labor shortages?

NSW is experiencing farm labor shortages due to multiple converging factors. The state has seen a 23% decrease in its agricultural workforce over the past three years, with a dramatic 66% reduction in overseas contract workers (23,900 workers), primarily from the Working Holiday Maker program. Additionally, 57% of Australian horticulture farms report difficulty recruiting, with 41% experiencing significant challenges. The median age of farm owner-operators has increased to 56 years, indicating an aging workforce, while 303 out of 916 occupations nationally are in shortage. Despite these challenges, the industry projects 4.4% growth over the next five years, creating sustained demand for agricultural workers.

What are the career prospects in NSW agriculture?

Career prospects in NSW agriculture remain strong with diverse advancement opportunities. Entry-level workers can progress from farm hand positions to supervisory roles, eventually becoming farm production managers, station managers, or agribusiness managers. The industry offers clear pathways through formal training, with around 50% of workers holding post-school qualifications and increasing numbers obtaining university degrees. Specialized roles in agricultural technology, sustainable farming practices, and precision agriculture offer higher salaries, with the high-income threshold reaching $175,000 per annum. The projected 4.4% industry growth over five years, combined with ongoing labor shortages, ensures continued employment security and advancement opportunities for committed agricultural workers.

What are the employment conditions for farm workers in NSW?

Employment conditions for farm workers in NSW are governed by the National Employment Standards (NES) and relevant awards:

  • Working Hours: Typically 38-50 hours per week, with seasonal peaks requiring extended hours
  • Overtime Rates: Time and a half for first 2 hours, double time thereafter under most awards
  • Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave, 10 days personal/sick leave, public holidays as per NES
  • Accommodation Benefits: Many positions include free or subsidized on-farm housing
  • Meal Allowances: Often provided during harvest seasons or for remote locations
  • Equipment & Training: Employers typically provide necessary tools, safety equipment, and on-the-job training
  • Seasonal Contracts: Common for harvest work, ranging from 3-6 months with potential extensions
  • Permanent Positions: Available for skilled workers, offering greater job security and benefits

Workers are protected by Fair Work regulations ensuring minimum wages, safe working conditions, and proper insurance coverage including workers’ compensation.