Discover the top regional areas in Australia with high demand for agricultural jobs right now — from Riverina to Bundaberg. Explore farm manager, agronomist, and seasonal roles plus visa pathways for skilled workers.
Introduction
Australia faces an acute rural workforce shortage. Over 20,000 agricultural jobs remain unfilled across regional areas, yet thousands of skilled international workers seek exactly these opportunities. From dairy farm managers in Gippsland to agronomists in the Ord River region, regional employers actively sponsor overseas talent through Visa 482 and Visa 494 pathways. This guide reveals the hottest regional areas hiring agricultural professionals right now and shows you how to secure your role.
Top 10 Regional Areas Actively Hiring Agricultural Professionals
1. Riverina, NSW (Griffith, Leeton, Wagga Wagga)
The Riverina produces rice, citrus, wine, and poultry worth billions annually. Employers urgently need farm managers, irrigation specialists, and harvest supervisors. Large agribusinesses regularly lodge Visa 494 sponsorships.
2. Sunraysia, VIC/NSW (Mildura, Robinvale)
Known for table grapes, almonds, and avocados, Sunraysia offers year-round horticulture jobs. Fruit picking peaks December–April, while permanent roles in packhouses and vineyard management stay open constantly.
3. Goulburn Valley, VIC (Shepparton, Mooroopna)
Australia’s “food bowl” grows 25% of the nation’s fruit. Dairy processors and cannery giants seek machine operators, quality controllers, and agronomists. Many roles qualify for the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA).
4. Bundaberg & Wide Bay, QLD
Strawberries, macadamias, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes drive demand. Seasonal farm work transitions easily into skilled Visa 482 positions for tractor operators and crop supervisors.
5. Bowen & Whitsunday Region, QLD
Bowen supplies 90% of Australia’s winter tomatoes. Large horticultural farms hire irrigation technicians and packhouse managers with immediate start dates.
6. Atherton Tablelands, QLD
Tropical fruits, dairy, and coffee plantations create steady openings for livestock hands and farm mechanics. Smaller family farms often sponsor experienced workers directly.
7. Lockyer Valley, QLD
Intensive vegetable production needs skilled spray operators, soil scientists, and cool-room technicians. Proximity to Brisbane makes relocation attractive.
8. Margaret River & South West WA
Premium wine and dairy regions seek viticulturists, cellar hands, and herd managers. The South West DAMA fast-tracks regional sponsorship.
9. Ord River Irrigation Area, WA
Massive expansion in sandalwood, chia, and mangoes drives demand for agronomists and heavy machinery operators. Remote allowances push salaries above $100k.
10. Katherine Region, NT
Beef cattle stations and mango orchards offer station hand, stockperson, and mechanic roles. The Northern Territory DAMA provides a clear pathway to permanent residency.
Why Regional Employers Sponsor Overseas Workers Now
Chronic labour shortages, ageing local workforce, and booming export markets force regional employers to look offshore. The Australian Government expanded the Skilled Occupation List in 2024 to include more agricultural roles under Visa 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) and Visa 494 (Employer Sponsored Regional). These visas lead to permanent residency after three years and include family members. Employers cover relocation costs in many cases and offer higher wages to attract talent fast.
How to Land These Agricultural Jobs from Overseas
Search the Harvest Trail website and Agri Labour Australia for current vacancies. Register with regional labour hire companies that specialise in Visa 494 sponsorship. Target employers under Designated Area Migration Agreements — they process applications faster. Highlight machinery tickets, chemical accreditation (ChemCert), and prior harvest experience on your CV. Most roles start immediately once the visa is granted.
Conclusion
Regional Australia needs agricultural professionals more than ever. Areas like Riverina, Sunraysia, and Bundaberg offer immediate jobs, competitive salaries, and clear permanent residency pathways. Start your application today — the harvest won’t wait.
