Every year, about 40,000 working holiday makers, also referred to as backpackers, work in Australian agriculture, many of whom are completing their 88 days of specified work that is required for eligibility for a second year visa. 

Australian farmers rely heavily on backpackers to help get a variety of jobs done, from pruning to picking fruit and driving machinery.

The NFF said farm work can be physically challenging, and for some backpackers, it can be vastly different from anything ever experienced before. 

“But at the same time, the program is an opportunity for backpackers to get out of Australia’s cities and experience the rich culture of rural and regional Australia, meet new people and make lasting connections,” the organisation said.

“It is important that backpackers who come to work in Australia know what to expect, what to be aware of, and who to contact if there is a problem. The NFF has developed a guide for working on Australian farms with this information,” the NFF said.

“This includes checking that they have a right to work, being informed about their legal rights and making sure that they have all the documents they need to have their 88 days recognised. It also includes practical directions to remember to wear protective clothing and drink lots of water.”

The guide is also summarised in a short checklist with the key things that backpackers need to keep in mind when going to work on an Australian farm. Click HERE to access the guide in full.