Farmers and crop owners rely heavily on backpackers during the harvest - work is easy to find for those with the appropriate visa (see Job Searching in Australia). Going around farms and orchards, and enquiring at local hostels and pubs, is the best way to track down employment. Accommodation may or may not be included on the farm.

Arrangements can be made in the UK if you don't fancy looking on spec, though your papers will have to be in order to be accepted by any of the following organizations. Try the Northern Victoria Fruitgrowers' Association (PO Box 394, Shepparton, Victoria 3630) or the Victorian Peach and Apricot Growers' Association (PO Box 39, Cobram, Victoria 3644). 

Another option, for those with agricultural experience, is the International Agricultural Exchange Association (YFC Centre, National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2LG). If you're willing to work for bed and board, the organic farming movement WWOOF have an Australian branch providing useful information on how to do so.

The Vistoz Scheme has vacancies, on cattle stations and farms, available after a period of training. No experience is necessary. They also seek veterinary students, ski instructors, mothers' helps, teachers and nurses. 

Experienced riders may be able to find work with horses through an agency called Stablemate (156 Pitt Town Road, Kenthurst, NSW 2156).

Good advice as usual can be found in Work Your Way Around the World (the latest edition is available from amazon.co.uk) and in a couple of books devoted to the subject: The Book on Fruitpicking Around Australia (£6 incl p&p from Pickpack RMA, 58 Cromwell Road, Eastney, Portsmouth PO4 9PN) and A Traveller's Guide to the Australian Fruit & Vegetable Harvest (PO Box 420, Gymea, Sydney, NSW 2227).

More Links
Directory > Live, Work & Travel in Australia