Farm work in Mildura
Sunraysia, VIC 3500
Sunny Sunraysia on the Murray River is Australia’s grape and citrus heartland, with harvest work in summer and autumn and pruning through winter.
What’s grown here
When the work is
Peak season is usually January to April. Seasons move with the weather, so call ahead and aim to arrive a week or two before the rush.
| Grape harvest | Roughly January–April |
| Citrus picking | Roughly May–October |
| Vine pruning | Roughly June–August |
Does it count for my second year?
Yes. Farm work in postcode 3500 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 6–7 hours’ drive from Melbourne or 4 from Adelaide.
- Mildura airport has flights from Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
- V/Line coach and train connections run from Melbourne.
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 Mildura 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
- Summer days get very hot — start early and carry lots of water.
- Citrus season gives steady work after the grape rush ends.
- 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
Robinvale, VIC
Peak: January to April
Renmark & the Riverland, SA
Peak: February to April
Griffith, NSW
Peak: February to April
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