Backpack Aus
Farm work · NSW

Farm work in Orange

Central West, NSW 2800

A cool-climate food and wine town with apples, pears and cherries — a nicer place to spend a few months than most farm towns.

What’s grown here

ApplesPearsCherriesWine grapes

When the work is

Peak season is usually February to May. Seasons move with the weather, so call ahead and aim to arrive a week or two before the rush.

CherriesRoughly November–January
Apples and pearsRoughly February–May
Grape vintageRoughly March–May

Does it count for my second year?

Yes. Farm work in postcode 2800 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 3.5 hours west of Sydney.
  • Trains and coaches run from Sydney.
  • Flights from Sydney to Orange airport.

Where to stay

Working hostels in Orange 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.

Local tips

  • Winters are cold — it can snow on nearby Mount Canobolas.
  • 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

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