Australia’s thriving agricultural sector offers a wealth of opportunities for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) seeking seasonal employment. Among these, fruit picking stands out as a popular and accessible job, attracting thousands of workers from around the world each year. Whether you’re looking to experience the beautiful Australian countryside, earn a competitive wage, or gain international work experience, becoming a fruit picker in Australia can be a rewarding venture.
This guide will walk you through the steps of applying for a fruit picking job, from understanding visa requirements to finding reputable employers and preparing for your journey. Join us as we explore the essentials of securing a fruit picking position and making the most of your Australian adventure.
Your Guide to Applying as a Fruit Picker in Australia
This article is based on a YouTube video from the channel “Farmer sa Australia.” In this video, the vlogger talks about how to be a fruit picker in Australia. He answers the most frequently asked questions from his viewers. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
Understanding Fruit Picking in Australia
Overview of the Fruit Picking Industry:
- Australia boasts a diverse range of climates and landscapes conducive to growing a variety of fruits, from apples and oranges to berries and grapes.
- The fruit picking season varies depending on the type of fruit and its geographical location within Australia.
- Major fruit-producing regions include Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Seasonal Nature of Fruit Picking Jobs:
- Fruit picking is largely seasonal, with peak demand for workers during harvest times.
- Seasons vary for different fruits, offering opportunities for year-round employment in different regions.
- Seasonal work typically lasts several weeks to a few months, offering flexibility for OFWs seeking short-term employment.
Types of Fruits and Their Seasons:
- Apples: Harvested from February to May in Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania.
- Oranges: Picking season runs from May to September in Queensland and New South Wales.
- Berries: Strawberries are picked from June to November in Queensland and Victoria, while blueberries are harvested from October to April in New South Wales and Tasmania.
- Grapes: Harvested from February to April in South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales for wine production.
- Mangoes: Picking season occurs from September to March in Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Challenges and Rewards:
- Fruit picking can be physically demanding, requiring long hours of manual labor in varying weather conditions.
- However, it offers the opportunity to work outdoors, stay active, and immerse oneself in Australia’s natural beauty.
Visa and Legal Requirements
. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) and Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462):
- The Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) and Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) are popular options for young individuals aged 18 to 30 (in some cases 35) from eligible countries, including the Philippines.
- These visas allow holders to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months and can be extended for a second year under certain conditions.
- To be eligible, applicants must meet specific criteria, including having a valid passport, meeting health and character requirements, and demonstrating sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
Seasonal Worker Program (SWP) and Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS):
- The Seasonal Worker Program (SWP) and Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) are employer-sponsored programs designed to address seasonal labor shortages in the Australian agricultural sector.
- Under these programs, employers can sponsor workers from eligible Pacific and Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, for up to nine months to work in specified industries, including fruit picking.
- Applicants must meet specific criteria and undergo a thorough selection process, including skills assessment and English language proficiency tests.
Employer-Sponsored Visas:
- In some cases, OFWs may secure fruit picking jobs in Australia through employer sponsorship, whereby employers nominate and sponsor foreign workers for skilled or temporary visas.
- Employer-sponsored visas, such as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482), may be available for certain occupations and skill levels within the agricultural sector.
- Eligibility criteria vary depending on the visa subclass and may include relevant work experience, qualifications, and sponsorship by an approved employer.
Vlogger’s Experience
When the vlogger decided to work in Australia picking fruit, he had to figure out how to get there legally. He used his connections and some tips to make it happen.
First, he talked to a friend in the Philippines who knew someone in Sydney. Through this friend, he got the contact info for a travel agency that helps people like him go to Australia. With their help, he gathered all the papers he needed, like his birth certificate and job records.
He sent these documents to the agency, and in just six days, they got him a tourist visa. This visa let him visit Australia, but he couldn’t work there yet. So, once he arrived, he quickly applied for a work permit. He also got some important cards, like one for health care and another for taxes.
Even though he didn’t know much about picking fruit and he was older than most beginners, he didn’t give up. He used to work in a store back home, not on a farm, but he was excited to try something new.
With a lot of effort and a positive attitude, he started his new job as a fruit picker in Australia. His journey shows that with some help and determination, anyone can chase their dreams, no matter where they come from.
Becoming a fruit picker in Australia offers OFWs a chance for new beginnings and exciting experiences. From understanding the industry to navigating visas and finding work, this article has provided essential steps for those seeking employment in Australia’s agricultural sector. Remember, while challenges may arise, perseverance and preparation can lead to success. Just like the vlogger’s journey, seizing opportunities and staying determined can open doors to fulfilling work and personal growth.