Top Coastal Towns Offering Seasonal Work Opportunities Across Australia
Australia’s coastline is dotted with stunning towns that don’t just offer postcard worthy views. Many also boom with seasonal job opportunities. From hospitality and tourism to agriculture, retail, and marine-based roles, coast side communities rely heavily on travelling workers to keep businesses running during peak seasons.
Whether you’re chasing sunshine, surf, or a seaside lifestyle, here are the top coastal towns in each State and Territory where seasonal workers are in high demand.
New South Wales: Byron Bay
Byron Bay has long been a magnet for backpackers, travellers, and seasonal workers. Over summer, demand surges across hospitality, retail, accommodation, surf schools, transport services, and events. With its beaches, nightlife, and laid-back vibe, it’s a favourite for those wanting work/life balance by the sea.
Top seasonal jobs: Café staff, bartenders, housekeepers, tour assistants, festival/event crew, retail staff.
Queensland: Airlie Beach
Gateway to the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach thrives on year round tourism but ramps up especially from May to October. Seasonal roles are plentiful, particularly in hotels, restaurants, reef tour companies, and resort operations.
Top seasonal jobs: Resort staff, chefs, deckhands, receptionists, tour guides, cleaning crews.
Victoria: Lakes Entrance
One of Victoria’s most popular coastal holiday hotspots, Lakes Entrance sees a huge influx during Summer. Businesses often rely on casual and seasonal staff for accommodation, dining, and water-based recreation services.
Top seasonal jobs: Hospitality roles, fishing/charter crew, caravan park staff, retail workers.
South Australia: Victor Harbor
Just an hour from Adelaide, Victor Harbor becomes a bustling holiday hub over Summer and school holidays. Travellers can expect plenty of opportunities in hospitality, tourism, and family-focused attractions.
Top seasonal jobs: Café and restaurant workers, tour operators, holiday park staff, customer service roles.
Western Australia: Broome
Broome’s peak season runs from May to September when the weather is warm and dry…perfect for tourists. Seasonal workers are essential across hotels, cultural tourism, hospitality, and adventure tour operations.
Top seasonal jobs: Hotel staff, hospitality, tour guides, camel handlers, retail assistants.
Tasmania: St Helens (Bay of Fires)
As Tasmania’s premier coastal getaway, St Helens attracts visitors during the warmer months. Seasonal workers support the region’s growing tourism sector, especially in accommodation and outdoor experience companies.
Top seasonal jobs: Hospitality workers, guides, housekeepers, reception staff, marine tour assistants.
Northern Territory: Darwin Waterfront Precinct
While the NT isn’t traditionally known for sandy beaches, Darwin’s coastal lifestyle and tourism season (May–October) create a strong need for short-term workers. The Waterfront Precinct, Mindil Beach, and surrounding areas buzz with activity.
Top seasonal jobs: Hospitality roles, market vendors, tour company crew, event staff.
Final Thoughts
From Broome’s sunsets to Byron’s surf culture and the Whitsundays’ turquoise waters, Australia’s coastal towns offer not just seasonal jobs, but unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a traveller, grey nomad, backpacker, or seasonal worker looking for your next adventure, the coastline offers endless opportunities for work and play.