Pacific scheme sectors
The OECD says the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme covers sectors such as agriculture, meat processing, tourism and aged care.
Source: OECD: Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme (retrieved 4 October 2026)
For job seekers
Agriculture and horticulture jobs in Australia
Agriculture jobs include farm hands, machinery operators, packhouse staff and supervisors. Seasonal harvest work often runs through licensed labour hire providers or Pacific scheme employers. Register with CrossNation to be considered for year-round roles as they open. Listings are not job offers, and CrossNation cannot promise a job, visa or start date.
By CrossNation Editorial Team. Sources checked 4 October 2026.
Official data
Key facts from official sources
PALM stream visa period
Home Affairs lists 4 years for PALM stream workers who are employed under a long-term work contract.
Source: Home Affairs: Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403), PALM stream (retrieved 4 October 2026)
Horticulture labour hire in Victoria
Under Victorian law, labour hire providers must hold a licence, and anyone using their services must only use licensed providers. The Labour Hire Authority publishes horticulture guidance for providers and hosts.
Source: Labour Hire Authority (Victoria): Guidance for businesses, horticulture providers and hosts (retrieved 4 October 2026)
Roles in this sector
What you could apply for
- Farm hand or machinery operator
- Packhouse worker
- Horticulture supervisor or team leader
- Farm or orchard manager
What job seekers ask
What to know before you start
What kind of work can you find?
Farm work ranges from year-round livestock and cropping roles to seasonal harvest and packing. Year-round roles usually list the machinery you must operate, the housing available and the distance to town. Seasonal work is shorter, and your pay and conditions should be in writing before you start.
How do you check a labour hire provider?
In Victoria, labour hire providers must hold a licence and anyone using their services must only use licensed providers. The Labour Hire Authority publishes horticulture guidance. South Australia started licensing in five industries including horticulture processing and now covers all industries. Ask any provider for its licence number and check the register before you accept.
How do Pacific scheme jobs work?
Pacific scheme jobs are offered by employers approved to take part, not by recruiters. Workers come from Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste. Home Affairs lists 4 years for workers on long-term contracts. Ask any employer about its approval before you rely on an offer.
Where do you start?
If you are already in Australia, check what your visa allows before you take farm work. Our Pacific worker guide explains the scheme in general terms. CrossNation cannot promise a job, visa or timeline.
Live jobs
Open roles in Agriculture and horticulture right now: 0
No matching roles are open right now. Create a candidate profile and upload your CV, and a recruiter reviews profiles against roles as employers brief us. A listing is not a job offer.
Create a profile and upload your CV
A recruiter reviews profiles against roles as employers brief us. Listings are not job offers.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the pay for farm work?
It depends on the award, often the Horticulture Award [MA000028], or an enterprise agreement. Your contract should state it.
Do I need experience?
Seasonal picking and packing often does not. Operator and supervisor roles do.
Is accommodation provided?
Some employers offer it and some do not. Ask before you accept and get the cost in writing.
How do I register with CrossNation?
Create a candidate profile and upload a CV with your farm, packhouse or machinery experience and your availability. Recruiters match profiles to year-round role briefs.
Can I apply if I am overseas?
You need the right to work in Australia, and seasonal work rules depend on your visa. CrossNation cannot promise a job or a visa. This is general information, not migration advice. Speak to a registered migration agent.