Can You Travel Full-Time and Still Build Your Career?
Can You Travel Full-Time and Still Build Your Career?
For many of us, the idea of travelling full-time feels like pressing pause on our careers. After all, how can you grow your skills, gain experience, and keep moving forward professionally if you’re also moving from town to town? The good news is—you can. In fact, travelling can become one of the most valuable investments in your career journey, if you approach it the right way.
At Workabout Australia, we see hundreds of members striking that balance: enjoying the freedom of the road while continuing to build meaningful, long-term careers. Here’s how it can work.
1. Rethink What “Career Progression” Looks Like
Careers are no longer about climbing a single corporate ladder. Employers today value flexibility, adaptability, and a broad skill set. Working on the road—whether it’s seasonal harvest jobs, hospitality, administration, or trade work—can help you gain diverse experiences that translate across industries.
Instead of seeing travel as a break in your career, think of it as an expansion. Each job you take adds another layer of skills, resilience, and problem-solving abilities that employers love.
2. Take Advantage of Remote Work Opportunities
With so many businesses shifting to hybrid and online setups, more roles than ever can be done from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. Whether you’re a graphic designer, virtual assistant, bookkeeper, or IT specialist, remote contracts allow you to earn and grow your professional expertise while still exploring Australia.
Some Workabout members even combine on-the-road jobs with remote freelancing, creating a well-rounded career that blends income, freedom, and stability.
3. Build Your Network on the Road
Your next career opportunity could come from someone you meet at a caravan park, on a farm, or at a seasonal event. Networking doesn’t just happen in city boardrooms anymore. Grey nomads and backpackers alike often discover long-term employment, business ideas, or new passions through the people they meet while travelling.
Workabout Australia makes this easier by connecting you directly with employers across regional Australia who value travelling workers.
4. Keep Learning While You Travel
Online courses, certifications, and workshops are now accessible from anywhere. You can complete a qualification while parked by the beach or in between seasonal jobs. Many travellers use downtime on the road to upskill—turning travel time into an investment in their future career.
5. Showcase Your Journey Professionally
Don’t underestimate how appealing a traveller’s lifestyle looks on a resume. Employers see someone who’s adaptable, resourceful, and capable of stepping into new environments with confidence. By framing your work-and-travel experiences as professional development, you’ll stand out as someone with initiative and drive.
So, Can You Really Travel Full-Time and Still Build a Career?
Absolutely. Travelling full-time doesn’t have to be a detour from your career—it can be the accelerator. With the right mindset, a flexible approach to work, and the support of communities like Workabout Australia, you can explore the country while laying solid foundations for your professional future.
After all, why choose between career growth and adventure when you can have both?
How the Working Holiday Visa Works
How the Working Holiday Visa Works: A Guide for International Travelers
Australia’s wide-open landscapes, vibrant cities, and friendly communities make it one of the top destinations for international travelers. For many, the dream isn’t just to explore—it’s to live, work, and travel around the country. That’s where the Working Holiday Visa comes in.
Whether you’re dreaming of picking fruit in the Outback, serving coffees in Sydney, or working in a vineyard in South Australia, this visa could be your ticket to funding your travels while experiencing authentic Aussie life. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
What Is the Working Holiday Visa?
The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) and the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462) allow young people from eligible countries to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months. It’s designed to encourage cultural exchange and give travelers the chance to fund their adventures while exploring Australia.
The main difference between the two visas comes down to which passport you hold, but both allow you to:
- Stay in Australia for up to one year (with the chance to extend).
- Work for up to 6 months with one employer.
- Travel freely around the country.
- Study for up to 4 months.
Who Can Apply?
You’ll need to meet a few requirements:
- Be aged 18 to 30 (some countries allow applications up to age 35).
- Hold a passport from an eligible country.
- Have enough money to support yourself when you first arrive (usually around AUD $5,000).
- Meet health and character requirements.
How Long Can You Stay?
Initially, your visa lets you stay for 12 months, but you can extend:
- Second Year Visa: Complete at least 88 days of specified work in regional Australia (such as fruit picking, farm work, or hospitality in certain areas).
- Third Year Visa: After your second visa, you can apply again if you’ve completed 6 months of specified regional work.
This means you could spend up to 3 years living and working in Australia!
What Work Can You Do?
The visa is flexible—you can take on casual, seasonal, or full-time jobs as long as you don’t work more than 6 months with the same employer. Popular industries include:
- Agriculture & Farm Work – fruit picking, packing, vineyard work, or livestock farming.
- Hospitality & Tourism – bars, restaurants, resorts, or caravan parks.
- Construction & Labouring – great for those with trade skills.
- Regional Work – essential if you plan to extend your visa.
Why Choose a Working Holiday in Australia?
- Earn while you travel – jobs often include food and accommodation, helping you save.
- Meet people from all over the world – backpackers, grey nomads, and locals alike.
- Explore Australia’s regions – from tropical Queensland to the rugged Outback.
- Adventure with security – your visa gives you the freedom to work legally as you go.
How Workabout Australia Can Help
Finding the right job and location can be overwhelming, but that’s where Workabout Australia steps in. We connect travelers with seasonal, regional, and short-term jobs across the country, making it easier to plan your working holiday.
From caravan park jobs to harvest work, our listings are tailored for people like you—those who want to experience real Australia while funding their adventures.
✨ Ready to start your journey? Your Aussie adventure begins with a visa, but the memories are made along the way. Let Workabout Australia help you find the work that makes travel possible.
Jobs With a View!
Jobs with a View: Best Regional Work Spots for Scenic Travel
When it comes to work and travel, why settle for a plain office wall when your “work window” could be overlooking red desert plains, turquoise coastline, or rolling vineyards?
One of the perks of regional and seasonal work in Australia is that many jobs put you right in the middle of stunning landscapes. From remote islands to outback sunsets, these roles aren’t just about earning an income — they’re about soaking up once-in-a-lifetime views while you do it.
Here are some of the best regional work spots in Australia where the scenery is just as rewarding as the paycheck.
1. Vineyard Hand – Barossa Valley, SA
Rolling hills, neat rows of vines, and sunsets that seem painted just for you — vineyard work in the Barossa is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re picking grapes, pruning vines, or working in the cellar door, you’ll spend your days surrounded by one of Australia’s most picturesque wine regions. Bonus: there’s often a glass of local Shiraz waiting after your shift.
2. Island Resort Work – Whitsundays, QLD
Think of your commute as a stroll along white sand beaches with clear blue water lapping at your toes. Resorts in the Whitsundays often need hospitality staff, tour guides, deckhands, and housekeeping workers. In your downtime, you can snorkel among coral reefs or hike to hilltop lookouts with views worth framing.
3. Outback Station Work – Northern Territory
If wide open spaces are your thing, station work in the NT delivers. From sunrise over the red dirt to sunsets that light up the sky in orange and purple, every day feels like a postcard. Cattle station hands, maintenance workers, and cooks can live and work right in the heart of the Outback, with scenery that’s as big and bold as Australia itself.
4. Farm Stays in the Scenic Rim, QLD
Just west of Brisbane, the Scenic Rim lives up to its name. Surrounded by mountain ranges, farmland, and national parks, this region offers farm jobs ranging from fruit picking to animal care. Many farms offer on-site accommodation, meaning you can wake up to misty paddocks and the sound of kookaburras.
5. Coastal Café Roles – Esperance, WA
If you love the sound of waves while you work, coastal cafés and tourism operators in Esperance might be calling your name. Famous for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, this small WA town offers hospitality jobs with a constant holiday vibe — even when you’re on shift.
6. Tourism & Adventure Jobs – Cradle Mountain, TAS
For those who prefer cool air and rugged landscapes, Tasmania (particularly around Cradle Mountain) is a dream. Tourism operators often look for guides, hospitality workers, and lodge staff. Your “office” could be a mountain backdrop with alpine lakes and ancient rainforest just steps away.
Why These Jobs Are Worth It
- Daily scenery boost: Working in beautiful surroundings can make even the hardest shifts feel lighter.
- Incredible downtime: You’re never far from your next adventure, whether it’s hiking, swimming, or exploring.
- Memories for life: You’ll remember not just the work you did, but the places you did it in.
If you’re ready to swap your view of a carpark for something a little more spectacular, check out the latest Workabout Australia listings. Your next job could come with the kind of scenery that makes your friends jealous — and the kind of experiences you’ll never forget.
Making Your Job More Appealing
5 Tips for Making Jobs Appealing to Grey Nomads and Backpackers
When it comes to finding reliable seasonal workers across regional Australia, grey nomads and backpackers are some of the most dependable and hardworking employees around. They’re eager to work, love exploring the country, and bring a wealth of skills and enthusiasm. But with so many job opportunities competing for their attention, how can you make sure your role stands out?
Here are five practical tips to help you attract the right workers and keep them coming back:
1. Offer Accommodation or Camping Facilities
Nothing appeals more to travellers than convenience—and that includes where they can lay their heads at night. Offering on-site accommodation, powered camping spots, or the option to park a caravan or campervan can be a huge incentive, especially for grey nomads.
Even basic amenities like showers, toilets, and a communal kitchen can make a job location more appealing. Bonus points if the facilities are free or discounted!
2. Be Upfront and Clear About the Job Details
Transparency goes a long way. Whether you’re advertising a fruit picking job, a hospitality role, or farmhand work, include clear information about:
- Hours of work
- Type of tasks involved
- Pay rates (hourly or piece rate)
- Duration of the job
- Any physical requirements
- What’s provided (meals, accommodation, transport, etc.)
Travellers are more likely to apply if they know exactly what they’re signing up for—and are less likely to leave early due to unmet expectations.
3. Make It Social and Welcoming
Backpackers and grey nomads are often on the road solo or as couples, so a friendly, social work environment is a major drawcard. Create opportunities for team bonding—think shared meals, campfire evenings, or local sightseeing outings on days off.
Grey nomads especially appreciate being made to feel useful and respected, so be sure to include them in team culture and value their experience.
4. Highlight the Local Experience
Your job isn’t just about work—it’s part of a bigger travel experience. Promote what makes your region special, whether it’s national parks, local markets, fishing spots, hiking trails, or nearby attractions.
For backpackers working their way across the country or nomads ticking off bucket list destinations, a job that includes time to explore can be more enticing than one that’s all work and no play.
5. Provide Reliable Communication and Support
Travellers may be arriving in your area for the first time, so make sure your communication is warm, prompt, and helpful. Offer support with directions, arrival times, what to bring, and what to expect. This builds trust and reduces no-shows.
Once they’re on site, be approachable. A positive work experience often leads to word-of-mouth referrals—and you might just find your next workers already waiting in the wings.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re running a remote cattle station, a country pub, or a vineyard in the heart of wine country, small touches can make a big difference when it comes to attracting grey nomads and backpackers.
At Workabout Australia, we’re here to connect employers with travellers keen to work and explore. Need help advertising your job? List your role with us today!
What to Pack for Outback Travel!
What to Pack for Work and Travel Adventures in the Outback
Heading off on a work and travel adventure in the Australian Outback? Whether you’re picking fruit in the tropics, mustering cattle in the red centre, or serving beers at a remote roadhouse, packing right can make or break your trip. Outback work often means hot days, dusty roads, long hours—and unforgettable memories. So, what should you throw in before you hit the road?
Here’s your go-to packing list for life and work in the Aussie Outback.
🧢 Clothing Essentials
Lightweight, breathable clothes
The Outback can get scorching hot, especially in summer. Pack lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your skin from the sun and bugs, while keeping you cool.
Workwear
Sturdy work boots (steel-capped if required), durable jeans, and hi-vis shirts are must-haves for many jobs. Check with your employer in advance to see if any uniforms or specific gear is provided.
Layers for chilly nights
Desert nights can get surprisingly cold. A warm jumper, thermal layers, and a beanie will keep you comfortable when the temperature drops.
Wide-brim hat & sunglasses
A good hat is non-negotiable in the Outback sun. Choose one with a brim all the way around for full protection, and don’t forget UV-rated sunnies.
Swimmers & casual wear
You’ll want to cool off in a local waterhole or relax with new mates at the pub. Pack a few comfy clothes for your downtime.
🛠️ Tools & Work Gear
Gloves
Work gloves will protect your hands during manual labour and rough work.
Head torch or flashlight
Essential for those early starts or late-night wanderings around camp.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial—carry a large, refillable bottle at all times.
Multi-tool or pocketknife
Super handy for general maintenance, camping tasks, or even meal prep.
🧼 Toiletries & First Aid
Basic toiletries
Keep it simple with travel-sized shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and deodorant. Baby wipes are great when showers are scarce.
High-SPF sunscreen & insect repellent
You’ll be outside a lot—slip, slop, slap and spray!
Personal first aid kit
Include bandaids, antiseptic, blister pads, painkillers, any prescription medications, and electrolytes for those long, sweaty days.
🛏️ Sleeping & Camping Gear
Even if accommodation is provided or you have your own van, many travellers find themselves camping at some point. You’ll thank yourself for being prepared.
Swag or tent
A quality swag or compact tent is ideal for outback adventures.
Sleeping bag & mat
Choose one rated for warm and cool nights, with a foam or inflatable mat for extra comfort.
Head net or mosquito net
Especially useful in tropical or fly-heavy areas.
📱 Tech & Communication
Phone & portable charger
Reception can be patchy, so download offline maps and keep your devices charged with a solar or power bank.
Telstra SIM card
Telstra has the best remote coverage in Australia—worth switching to while you’re out bush.
Offline entertainment
Download books, podcasts, music, and movies to keep you entertained during downtime.
🗺️ Paperwork & Planning
ID & copies of important documents
Keep a printed and digital copy of your driver’s licence, passport, and Medicare card just in case.
Tax File Number & Superannuation info
Essential for getting paid legally in Australia.
Workabout Australia membership
Don’t forget—being a member gives you access to job listings, employer contacts, and a supportive community of fellow travellers.
Bonus Tips
- Pack light but smart. You’ll be surprised how little you actually need.
- Check job requirements. Some jobs may require specific clothing, PPE, or certifications.
- Respect local communities. Learn about the local area, especially if you’re working on Indigenous land or in remote communities.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Packing for an Outback work-and-travel adventure is all about balance: be prepared, but don’t overpack. With the right gear and mindset, you’ll be well on your way to earning, exploring, and living the ultimate Aussie experience.
🚐💼🌄
Want more tips, jobs, and advice? Join the Workabout Australia community and start your adventure today: www.workaboutaustralia.com.au
Budgeting on the Road
Budgeting on the Road: Making Your Money Stretch Between Jobs
Life on the road is full of adventure — new places, new faces, and plenty of opportunities to work and explore this amazing country. But between jobs, it can get a little tight on the wallet. Whether you’re chasing harvest seasons, working in remote pubs, or picking up casual gigs in caravan parks, learning how to manage your money between jobs can make all the difference in keeping your travels smooth and stress-free.
Here are our top tips for budgeting on the road and making your money last longer.
1. Know Your Numbers
Before you hit the road, take a little time to work out your baseline costs — fuel, food, accommodation, phone/data, vehicle maintenance, and a little buffer for emergencies. Once you know what your regular expenses are, you can better plan how much you need to earn and save at each job to keep going comfortably between gigs.
Tip: Use a simple budget tracking app or even a good old spreadsheet to stay on top of your expenses.
2. Cook Your Own Meals
It’s tempting to grab a pub schnitty or a roadhouse burger after a long day of driving or working, but eating out regularly adds up quickly. Stock your van or camp kitchen with staples like pasta, rice, tinned veggies, and spices, and take advantage of local produce when you’re working near farms.
Bonus: Share meals with fellow travellers to cut costs and enjoy a bit of company.
3. Free (or Cheap) Camping
Australia is full of brilliant free and low-cost campsites — especially in regional areas. Apps like WikiCamps or Camplify are great for finding spots with toilets, water, and even showers. Many local councils or showgrounds offer budget-friendly stays with basic amenities.
Hot Tip: If you’re between jobs and staying somewhere a while, ask around about volunteering or work exchanges in return for a campsite or meals.
4. Be Smart with Fuel
Fuel is one of the biggest expenses on the road. Use apps like Fuel Map Australia, MotorMouth or PetrolSpy to find the cheapest fuel in your area. It’s also worth filling up in bigger towns before heading into remote areas where prices can skyrocket.
Fuel Saver Trick: Keep your tyres inflated and drive steadily — heavy acceleration and braking burn more fuel!
5. Work Ahead — Not Just Week to Week
Whenever you land a good job, put aside a portion of your pay — even if it’s just a little each week. That emergency fund will give you peace of mind if you need to wait longer than expected for the next gig or if your car needs repairs at the worst possible time (it happens!).
Try This: Open a separate bank account just for savings and make it a habit to stash 10–20% from each paycheck.
6. Keep Your Eyes Open for Perks
Some employers offer more than just pay — things like free meals, accommodation, laundry, or fuel vouchers. These extras can go a long way when you’re budgeting, so always check the full details of the job before saying yes.
And don’t forget — Workabout Australia members get access to exclusive job listings and employer contacts, helping you line up work faster and stay on track financially.
7. Travel With Purpose
Instead of driving long distances without a plan, try travelling with your next job or region in mind. Plot your route based on seasonal work opportunities, festivals, or busy tourist times when towns need extra hands. Not only will this save you fuel and time, but you’ll likely land a job quicker, too.
Final Thought
Budgeting on the road isn’t about living tight — it’s about being smart. The more you plan, the more freedom you’ll have to explore, meet new people, and enjoy the incredible lifestyle that comes with working and travelling around Australia. A little preparation now means a lot more peace of mind later.
Happy travels, and see you on the road!
Why Hiring Travellers Can Help You Solve Labour Shortages
If you run a business in regional Australia, you know all too well the struggle of finding reliable staff—especially during busy seasons. But have you thought about looking beyond your local area? Hiring travellers isn’t just a stop-gap solution—it can bring real, long-term benefits to your business.
At Workabout Australia, we’ve seen firsthand how businesses across the country keep their operations running smoothly by welcoming travelling workers. Here’s why it works—and why you might want to give it a go, too.
1. Travellers Go Where the Work Is
One of the biggest advantages of hiring travellers is their flexibility. Many are on the road specifically to pick up seasonal, casual or short-term roles. They’re mobile and motivated, making them an ideal solution for businesses located away from larger towns and cities.
Whether it’s harvest time, tourist season or you just need an extra set of hands during a busy period, travellers can often step in quickly and help you meet demand.
2. A Pool of Diverse Skills and Experience
Travellers aren’t just backpackers looking for a quick dollar—they’re often skilled workers, grey nomads, and couples or families with a wealth of life and work experience. From customer service and hospitality to farming, maintenance and administration, many travellers bring practical, transferable skills to the table.
Their varied backgrounds can even help bring fresh ideas and perspectives to your business.
3. They Want to Work—and Stay Longer
Contrary to common belief, many travelling workers are not just looking to hop from one place to another. Grey nomads, in particular, often like to settle for weeks or months in an area if the work and local lifestyle suit them.
For employers, this can mean lower turnover and more continuity, especially in rural or remote communities where finding permanent staff can be a challenge.
4. Supporting Regional Australia
By employing travellers, you’re not just solving your staffing shortage—you’re also helping boost your local economy. Travelling workers spend money in town on groceries, fuel, and local attractions, helping small businesses and communities thrive.
5. It’s Easier Than You Think
Posting jobs to reach travellers has never been simpler. With platforms like Workabout Australia, you can advertise your roles directly to thousands of people who are already looking for work as they travel. You can list as many jobs as you need, whenever you need them—giving you flexibility and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Hiring travellers is more than just filling gaps—it can be part of a long-term staffing strategy, especially for regional and seasonal industries. With the right approach, you’ll find loyal, skilled and enthusiastic workers ready to lend a hand.
If you’d like to know more about how to connect with travelling workers, visit Workabout Australia and see how easy it is to start hiring today.
How to Write a Resume That Lands You a Job on the Road
If you’re planning to travel Australia (or anywhere!) and work along the way, your resume becomes more than just a document — it becomes your ticket to keep moving. Whether you’re picking fruit, helping on a station, pouring beers at a country pub, or working in hospitality at a tourist park, a tailored, road-ready resume can help you land seasonal and short-term jobs wherever your travels take you.
Here’s how to craft a resume that helps you get hired on the go.
1. Keep It Short and Flexible
Employers hiring seasonal or short-term workers don’t have time to read a lengthy CV. Aim for a one-page resume that highlights what’s most relevant. Think of it as a snapshot of your skills and attitude rather than a life history.
Tip: Keep an editable copy on your laptop or phone so you can quickly update details to suit the next job.
2. Emphasise Transferable Skills
You might have been an office administrator, retail assistant, or tradesperson — all those roles teach skills that are valuable on the road. Focus on:
- Reliability and punctuality
- Communication
- Customer service
- Ability to work unsupervised
- Willingness to learn new tasks
These qualities matter more to many regional employers than industry-specific qualifications.
3. Highlight Relevant Experience First
If you’ve done any seasonal, casual, or volunteer work, put it at the top of your resume. For example:
- Harvest work
- Farm hand roles
- Bar work or hospitality
- Housekeeping
- Tour guiding or customer-facing roles
If you’re new to working while travelling, list any practical roles where you had to adapt quickly — employers love seeing real-world initiative.
4. Make Location and Availability Clear
Hiring managers want to know where you are and when you’re available. Include:
- Your current location (e.g., “Currently near Mildura, VIC”)
- Whether you have your own transport or accommodation
- Your willingness to travel to different regions
- Start date and approximate availability
This helps employers see straight away if you’re a good fit logistically.
5. Include Short References
Even a short testimonial or contact detail for a recent employer makes your resume stronger. Travelling workers sometimes get overlooked because hiring managers worry about reliability — references help reassure them.
6. Show Your Personality
A short personal statement (2–3 lines) at the top can make your resume memorable. For example:
“Friendly, hands-on traveller exploring Australia and keen to lend a hand wherever needed. Quick to learn, enjoy teamwork, and happy to pitch in with whatever needs doing.”
This small touch shows enthusiasm and helps your resume feel more human.
7. Use Simple Formatting
Make sure your resume is easy to read on mobile or printed in black and white:
- Clear headings
- Bullet points
- Standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, etc.)
- Avoid heavy graphics or coloured backgrounds
Ready to Hit the Road?
With a short, honest, and tailored resume, you’ll find it much easier to pick up seasonal and casual work on your travels. Keep it updated, stay positive, and remember: many employers hire for attitude first and experience second.
Safe travels and happy job hunting!
How to Attract Reliable Seasonal Workers to Your Regional Business
How to Attract Reliable Seasonal Workers to Your Regional Business
Finding seasonal staff in regional areas can be challenging — but with the right approach, you can attract dependable workers who return season after season. Whether you run a farm, a holiday park, a winery, or a tourism venture, reliable seasonal workers are the backbone of your busiest periods. Here’s how to stand out and secure the talent your business needs.
1. Advertise Early (and Often)
Timing is everything. Many seasonal workers plan their travel and work schedules months in advance, especially those exploring Australia in a caravan or backpacking. List your job well before the season starts — ideally 6–12 weeks in advance — so travellers can align it with their routes.
Tip: Include your start dates clearly in your ad and mention if you’re happy to hold a role for the right person.
2. Use the Right Platforms
Travellers and grey nomads don’t always use traditional job sites. Promote your jobs on niche platforms like Workabout Australia, Facebook groups for working holidaymakers, and regional tourism pages.
Also consider:
- Caravan parks noticeboards
- Local visitor centres
- Word of mouth through other local employers
3. Be Transparent About the Role
The more detail you provide, the better. Reliable workers are more likely to commit when they understand what they’re signing up for. Include:
- Daily hours and pay
- Type of work and physical demands
- Duration of the role
- Accommodation or van site availability
- Any extra perks (meals, fuel allowance, local experiences)
4. Offer a Great Work Experience
Seasonal workers often choose jobs that give them a taste of local life. A welcoming environment, fair treatment, and small perks can go a long way. Think:
- A weekly BBQ or social event
- Opportunities to learn something new (winemaking, animal care, etc.)
- Friendly staff culture and clear communication
Happy workers talk — and word-of-mouth can be your best future recruitment tool.
5. Provide Accommodation or Support
Offering onsite accommodation or a space for a van is a major bonus in regional areas with limited housing. If you can’t provide it directly, help new arrivals find affordable options or connect them with other local employers who might be able to share resources.
6. Stay in Touch with Past Workers
Reliable seasonal staff often become repeat hires. Keep a record of great workers, stay in touch, and invite them back the following season. Many appreciate the stability of returning to a place they know.
“We always go back to the same citrus farm in Mildura — it’s like our second home,” says Jane, a seasoned grey nomad.
7. Highlight Your Location and Lifestyle
Don’t forget to sell the experience. Seasonal workers often choose roles that offer more than just a pay cheque. Showcase:
- Natural attractions
- Community events or festivals
- Proximity to popular travel routes or destinations
- Unique opportunities (like fishing, bushwalking, or wine tasting)
Make your job a lifestyle choice, not just a work gig.
Final Thoughts
Attracting reliable seasonal workers doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With a little planning, transparency, and a people-first mindset, you’ll build a reputation as a great place to work — and that’s the best recruitment strategy of all.
Top 10 Seasonal Jobs You Can Do While Traveling Around Australia
Australia is a vast and vibrant country that attracts thousands of travellers every year — not just for the sights, but for the chance to fund their adventures along the way. Whether you’re chasing the sun, following the harvest trail, or simply exploring life off the beaten path, seasonal work is a fantastic way to earn an income while experiencing all Australia has to offer.
Here are the top 10 seasonal jobs that are perfect for travellers, grey nomads, and working holiday makers looking to combine work and wanderlust.
1. Fruit Picking and Harvest Work
Arguably the most iconic travel job in Australia. From mangoes in the NT to apples in Tasmania, the harvest trail spans the entire country and changes with the seasons. It’s physical work, but it often includes accommodation and is a great way to meet fellow travellers.
📍 Where: Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania
🗓️ Best Time: Varies by region and crop
2. Farmhand and Station Work
Get your hands dirty on cattle stations, sheep farms, or broadacre cropping properties. Duties range from mustering livestock to general maintenance, fencing, and machinery operation. It’s ideal for those who enjoy rural life and aren’t afraid of early starts.
📍 Where: Outback NT, WA, QLD
🗓️ Best Time: Dry season (April–October)
3. Tourism and Hospitality Roles
With tourism booming year-round, especially in hotspots like the Whitsundays, Uluru, and coastal towns, there’s always demand for baristas, bartenders, waitstaff, and cleaners in cafes, resorts, and caravan parks.
📍 Where: QLD, NT, WA, NSW
🗓️ Best Time: Peak tourism periods (school holidays, dry season)
4. Caravan Park and Campground Assistants
Many travelling couples and solo nomads take on roles as park hosts, cleaners, reception staff, or general helpers in return for pay and/or site fees. It’s perfect for those with caravans or campers and a friendly attitude.
📍 Where: Nationwide
🗓️ Best Time: Year-round, depending on the location
5. Fishing and Aquaculture Jobs
Fishing ports and aquaculture farms need hands for oyster shucking, prawn sorting, deckhanding, and fish processing. It’s fast-paced and sometimes cold or smelly work — but often well paid.
📍 Where: SA, Tasmania, WA, NT
🗓️ Best Time: Summer months, seasonal fisheries
6. Event and Festival Crew
Australia hosts a wide range of music festivals, agricultural shows, and sporting events. These short-term gigs may involve setting up tents, working food stalls, ushering, or bump-out.
📍 Where: Capital cities, regional centres
🗓️ Best Time: Spring/Summer
7. Vineyard and Winery Work
From grape-picking to cellar door hosting and wine bottling, vineyards offer work across seasons. Experience isn’t always necessary, and some positions include tastings — a nice bonus!
📍 Where: Barossa Valley (SA), Hunter Valley (NSW), Margaret River (WA)
🗓️ Best Time: Harvest (Feb–April), pruning (June–August)
8. House and Pet Sitting
Ideal for digital nomads or retirees, house sitting allows you to live rent-free in exchange for caring for homes and pets while owners are away. These jobs are increasingly common in regional areas where holidaymakers are heading out.
📍 Where: Nationwide
🗓️ Best Time: Holiday periods
9. Bushfire and Flood Recovery Work
In times of disaster recovery, volunteers and paid workers are needed for clean-up, rebuilding, and support roles. It’s rewarding work that helps hard-hit communities — and a unique way to give back during your travels.
📍 Where: Fire/flood-affected areas
🗓️ Best Time: Post-disaster season (varies)
10. Retail and Delivery Work During Holidays
Major chains and local businesses alike need extra staff over peak periods like Christmas and Easter. You might find work in retail stores, delivery driving, or warehouse packing.
📍 Where: Major towns and regional hubs
🗓️ Best Time: October–January
Ready to Hit the Road?
Seasonal work in Australia offers much more than just an income — it opens doors to local experiences, new skills, and lifelong memories. Whether you’re a backpacker, a vanlifer, or part of the grey nomad movement, there’s a seasonal job waiting for you.
🔍 Explore job listings, connect with employers, and plan your working adventure at WorkaboutAustralia.com.au — your one-stop shop for life on the road.