Farm work in Bundaberg
Wide Bay, QLD 4670
One of the busiest horticulture regions in Queensland, with work in the paddocks and packing sheds most of the year. Its working hostels have placed backpackers on farms for decades.
What’s grown here
When the work is
Peak season is usually April to November. Seasons move with the weather, so call ahead and aim to arrive a week or two before the rush.
| Vegetables (tomatoes, capsicum, zucchini) | Roughly April–November |
| Macadamias | Roughly March–August |
| Sweet potatoes | Most of the year |
Does it count for my second year?
Yes. Farm work in postcode 4670 counts as specified work for both the 417 and 462 visas. The job also has to be eligible work, paid at award rates, with payslips.
Log every job in the 88-day tracker so you know exactly where you stand.
Getting there
- About 4.5 hours’ drive north of Brisbane.
- Long-distance coaches and the Tilt Train run from Brisbane.
- Bundaberg airport has flights from Brisbane.
Skyscanner
Compare domestic flights — often cheaper than the bus on long legs.
JUCY
Campervan hire for the road-trip-sleep-anywhere life.
Where to stay
Working hostels in Bundaberg often line up farm work and drive you there. Read recent reviews and ask how long guests wait for work before you pay. Caravan parks and share houses are cheaper for longer stays.
Hostelworld
The biggest range of hostels in every Aussie city and beach town.
Booking.com
Private rooms, motels and longer stays when you need a break from dorms.
Local tips
- Ask working hostels how long guests are waiting for work before you book.
- Packing shed work on the farm usually counts; check that a shed is part of the farm business.
- Never pay a fee to get a job, and walk away from cash-in-hand work with no payslips.
Pack for the paddock
Nearby farm towns
Childers, QLD
Peak: April to November
Gatton & the Lockyer Valley, QLD
Peak: May to November
Stanthorpe, QLD
Peak: December to April
Affiliate links on this page may earn us a commission at no cost to you. More