Quick answers
The questions every working holiday maker asks, answered short and straight, with the official sources linked.
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What's picking in September in Australia?
Mangoes start in the Northern Territory, northern vegetables are still strong around Bowen and Bundaberg, blueberries run around Coffs Harbour, and southern farms start hiring for spring planting. On Matey's harvest calendar, 15 of 28 tracked harvest towns are in season in September, including Bowen, Coffs Harbour, Carnarvon, Darwin & Rural Area, and Mildura.
Does my town count for the 88 days?
Almost every harvest town backpackers use counts. For the 88 days, all of Tasmania, South Australia and the Northern Territory are regional, and in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia it depends on the postcode. The work also has to be eligible and paid at award rates. Always check the exact postcode first.
How do I get my second-year Working Holiday visa? (88 days checklist)
Do 88 calendar days of paid specified work, such as farm work, in an eligible regional postcode while on your first visa. Keep every payslip and bank statement. Then apply online through ImmiAccount before your current visa expires. You must still be under the age limit when you apply. UK passport holders no longer need the 88 days.
Is this farm job legit? Farm work scams and red flags in Australia
A legitimate farm job never asks you to pay to get hired. Walk away if there is an upfront deposit or job-finding fee, no business name or ABN, vague pay, cash only with no payslips, or a hostel charging rent while you wait for work that never starts. Check the ABN and the award rate before you travel.
How much do farm jobs pay in Australia?
Casual farm workers under the Horticulture Award must get at least the casual minimum rate, about $31 an hour for adults from 1 July 2025. Piece rates are legal but must let an average picker earn 15% more than that floor. Employers also pay 12% super, and working holiday makers pay 15% tax from the first dollar.
What are the best working hostels for the 88 days?
The best working hostels are in year-round harvest towns such as Bundaberg, Tully, Childers, Mildura and Griffith, and they tell you exactly which farms they supply, when work starts and what transport costs. Book one week, not a month, check reviews from backpackers who worked there, and never pay a fee for the job itself.
What's picking, month by month
Want the long version?
Our guides go deep on the 88 days, tax and super, vans, free camping and every harvest region.
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