Farm work in Shepparton
Goulburn Valley, VIC 3630
The Goulburn Valley is Victoria’s fruit bowl — pears, apples and stone fruit through summer, close enough to Melbourne for a weekend back in the city.
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.
| Stone fruit | Roughly December–March |
| Pears and apples | Roughly January–April |
| Pruning and thinning | Winter and spring |
Does it count for my second year?
Yes. Farm work in postcode 3630 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 2.5 hours north of Melbourne.
- V/Line trains run from Melbourne Southern Cross.
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 Shepparton 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
- Easy to reach by train, so it’s a good first farm job if you’re based in Melbourne.
- 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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