Essential Guide To Fruit Picking Jobs In Perth
Are you planning to try your hands at some fruit picking jobs in Perth in order to extend your Working Holiday Visa in Australia?
Or are you looking for ways to save money and travel at the same time while you backpack across the outbacks down under?
Either way, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about fruit picking jobs in Perth, where to go and what to look out for – for a worry free trip!
Perth is located in Western Australia and is famous for its all around warm climate throughout the year.
It is also becoming increasingly well-known for fruit picking especially because there’s always a fruit somewhere waiting to be picked – regardless of the seasons, all year long.
If you’re looking for a fruit picking job, Perth is the right place for you. There is a wide range of farms with different kinds of produce throughout the year, and you’ll never run out of places to try and apply to, so what are you waiting for? Let’s get to it!
Summary of All The Best Fruit Picking Jobs In Perth
- Kununurra, Perth
- Gin Gin, Perth
- Swan Valley, Perth
- Perth Hills, Perth
- Donnybrook, Perth
- Frankland, Perth
- Manjimup, Perth
- Margaret River, Perth
- Mount Barker, Perth
DISCLOSURE
Some of the links on here are affiliate links, and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. I hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.
Related Posts:
- A Guide to Fruit Picking Jobs In Australia
- Fruit Picking Jobs In Brisbane [The Ultimate Guide]
- Fruit Picking Jobs in Adelaide (A Unique Guide)
- The Ultimate Guide to Fruit Picking Jobs in Queensland
- Fruit Picking Jobs in NSW, Australia
- The 27 Best Indoor Activities In Perth 2022
- Fruit Picking Jobs in Melbourne ( A step by step guide)
Where To Look For Fruit Picking Jobs in Perth?
It’s crucial that you do your research before heading to Perth to look for fruit picking jobs in order to make sure you don’t waste your time or risk getting scammed when you arrive at the location.
There are several websites that can help you find the perfect fruit picking job in Perth, Western Australia for you but we recommend trying a few places and getting all the information you need from different locations so that you can increase your chances of securing a job before you get there.
Here are some contacts you can check out before planning your trip:
Contact: 1800 062 332
Contact: 03 5021 3472
Contact: 08 9376 2800
All The Best Fruit Picking Jobs In Perth
Fruit Picking Jobs in Kununurra, Perth
October to December
- Mangoes
April
- Citrus
May to November
- Melons
- Pumpkins
April to July
- Tree planting/ weeding
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Gin Gin
January to February and June to August
- Grapes
January to December
- Vegetables
- Citrus fruits
July to September
- Olives
November to January
- Stonefruit
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Swan Valley
January to February and June to September
- Grapes
January to December
- Vegetables
- Citrus
July to September
- Olives
November to December
- Stonefruit
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Perth Hills
November to April and June to August
- Apples
- Pears
October to March
- Stonefruit
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Donnybrook, Perth
February to April
- Tomatoes
February to April and June to September
- Grapes
February to September and November to December
- Apples
- Pears
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Frankland
February to April and June to September
- Grapes
May to August
- Olives
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Manjimup
February to May
- Apples
- Pears
October to June
- Potatoes
December to February
- Potatoes
- Vegetables
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Margaret River
February to April and June to August
- Grapes
Contact Information
Fruit Picking Jobs in Mount Barker
March to April and June to September
- Grapes
November to January
- Cherries
October to May
- Strawberries
Contact Information
What Exactly Is Fruit Picking?
So, if you’re reading this article but you’re not so sure what fruit picking entails and what is required for you to start, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Fruit picking essentially consists of the various processes involved in the agricultural industry – from the tree to the shelves or your table. This includes the actual fruit picking itself to the pruning, wrapping, thinning, packing and even the planting too!
It’s also important to note that types of fruit picking differs from fruit to fruit, depending on their ripeness, size and colour.
- Picking
Depending on the fruit you’ll be picking and their needs, there are different types of fruit picking methods that are commonly used that you should be aware about.
For instance, selective picking is when you are asked to pick fruits only of a certain colour (ripe fruits) or a certain size (also known as size picking). Size picking can be tricky however, as you might end up with smaller quantities which can affect your wages.
Another type of common picking method is mass harvesting.
This usually takes place at the end of the harvest season and all the fruits produced by the tree will be picked with the exception of damaged fruits, where they will be removed accordingly.
- Pruning
Pruning is a process where you cut off the dead or unwanted part of the tree to allow for plants to minimise competition and grow more optimally.
This usually happens right after a harvest, where working conditions can be a little harsh because of the cold or rain.
However, despite all this, pruning can pay pretty well especially because it’s one of the toughest jobs and is hardly a favorite one. You will learn how to prune correctly for the plant to achieve optimal growth and you will be spending a lot of time outdoors.
- Thinning
For some plants, smaller fruit may be removed just before the harvest season to unload the tree before harvest season.
If you have a great deal of patience, this task will yield great rewards for you as this job pays relatively more than traditional fruit picking jobs.
- Packing
The packing process involves sorting out and packaging harvested fruits and vegetables, which can be quite similar to working in a factory where you will be standing or sitting while you manage them.
However, if you’re not a fan of monotonous tasks, packing may not be your cup of tea. It will involve long hours and may get a little repetitive and boring after a long period of time.
- Weeding
Weeding can actually be quite fun to do but can be really tiring! You will be asked to weed out fields or garden beds using your hands or with spades, to remove the little plants surrounding the tree to minimise competition.
You will be required to work in the sun a lot, and might need to walk a lot too so be prepared to pack up your sunblock, and work those calves out if you decide to try packing when you look for fruit picking jobs in Perth.
- Planting
Planting is normally done manually unless they’re too big, which might require a tractor to do the planting.
This highly depends on the requirements of each plant and the optimal size it requires to grow healthily.
It combines several jobs that may require a decent amount of physical effort than the rest, especially if you have to work with larger trees but don’t worry, it’s not all that intense, just think of it as exercise that pays you money (and keeps you healthy!).
Most Picked Fruits in Perth
Perth is known for a wide variety of apples depending on their respective seasons. Other fruits and produce that are famous for fruit picking also includes avocados, nectarines and citrus fruits.
Strawberry picking in Perth is also quite popular!
From November to December, a range of different produce are available for picking such as lychees, mangoes, loquats and avocados but the most famous one during this time of the year are cherries.
They’re also relatively easier to pick than most fruits!
What Fruits Are In Season For Fruit Picking Jobs In Perth, Australia?
The harvests in Perth vary from season to season but if you’re looking for fruit picking jobs, there’s definitely one for you all year round, you’ll just have to know where to look. The following are some of the fruits that are produced based on their respective seasons in Perth.
Summer
- Royal Gala Apples
- Apricots
- Avocadoes
- Bananas
- Cherries
- Grapes
- Mangoes
- Rockmelons
- Watermelons
- Nectarines
- Passionfruit
- Papaya (Pawpaw)
- Peaches
- Plums
- Strawberries
Spring
- Avocadoes
- Bananas
- Berries (Other)
- Blueberries
- Currants
- Figs
- Limes
- Loquats
- Mandarins
- Mangoes
- Honeydew
- Mulberries
- Nectarines
- Valencia Oranges
- Passionfruit
- Papaya (Pawpaw)
- Strawberries
Autumn
- Fuji Apples
- Golden Delicious Apples
- Granny Smith Apples
- Hi-Early Apples
- Jonathan Apples
- Bananas
- Custard Apples
- Figs
- Grapes
- Guavas
- Kiwifruit
- Kumquats
- Rockmelons
- Watermelons
- Nashi Pears
- Olives
- Passionfruit
- Papaya (Pawpaw)
- Pears
- Quinces
Winter
- Lady Williams Apples
- Pink Lady Apples
- Sundowner Apples
- Avocadoes
- Bananas
- Grapefruit
- Kiwis
- Kumquats
- Limes
- Mandarin Oranges
- Honeydew
- Nashi Pears
- Navel Oranges
- Papaya (Pawpaw)
What To Consider When Looking For A Fruit Picking Job?
When looking for a fruit picking job in Perth, it’s important to keep a few things in mind before heading Down Under.
The jobs you will be required to do and the type of harvest will vary depending on where you’ll be, so don’t wait till the last minute to find a job on a farm you like.
To help you, we’ve put together some pointers to help you find the best one.
Seasons
Australia is a really big country and therefore, the climates may not be the same everywhere.
For fruit picking in Australia, certain regions are better suited to grow certain types of fruits and vegetables based on the climate and season they’re experiencing.
Summer is generally better for fruits and vegetables and winter can provide a great opportunity for farmers to maintain their crops to prepare for the next season.
Also be wary of rainy seasons and seasons where the temperature gets too hot for harvest which can limit jobs in the farm.
Be sure to keep the climate in mind when looking for fruit picking jobs as you won’t want to be stuck and become unemployed because of bad planning.
Regions
It is possible to find jobs all year round in the agricultural regions but luckily for Perth, harvest takes place almost every month in Western Australia.
However, the best time for the western region is between April and September, where there are different kinds of harvest that thrive most of the year.
To find a fruit picking job in an area you prefer, check out this harvest calendar to find the perfect location for you.
What Are The Requirements For A Fruit Picking Job in Perth?
If you will be travelling from another country, the most important thing you will need in order to secure a job in fruit picking in Perth is a working visa.
If you are:
- Australian citizen
- Australian permanent resident (PR)
- New Zealand citizen with a Subclass 444 Visa
You won’t need a visa if you are from the above categories as you are already eligible to work in Australia. However, if you’re not, fret not and read on, we’re here to help!
If you are aged between 18 and 30 years old and are from countries listed below, you can apply for the Working Holiday (Subclass 417) Visa to get a fruit picking job in Australia.
- Belgium
- Canada
- Republic of Cyprus
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hong Kong (including British National Overseas passport holders)
- Republic of Ireland
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Sweden
- Taiwan (other than an official or diplomatic passport)
- The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
If your country is not listed above, don’t worry, you can still apply for the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) to help you secure a job in the fruit picking industry in Australia. You can check your eligibility here.
You will need to clarify your health status as well as make the character requirement in order for you to obtain the visa before you head to Australia.
You will also need to have a certain amount of money in your bank account, approximately AUD 5000 (USD 3694) before your visa can be approved.
How Much Do Fruit Pickers Get Paid in Perth (Western Australia)?
Generally, wages differ based on job difficulty and the agreed employment contract. Larger fruits also pay fairly more compared to smaller ones.
Salaries are usually paid weekly by the hour or according to performance and yield (basket, tray, tree etc.) and is usually done via bank transfer, cheque or in cash. Regardless of the method of payment, make sure you get a payslip to ensure you’re not being cheated in any way.
It’s also important to note that the minimum wage for fruit picking jobs in Australia is usually set out in collective agreements otherwise known as awards.
They usually range between AUD 12 (USD 9) to AUD 25 (USD 18) an hour, often ranging around AUD 15 (USD 11) per hour.
They differ depending on the age and type of contract you’re employed under (part-time, full-time or casual). Individuals who work as casuals are entitled to at least 15 to 25% higher pay than permanent employees but this depends on your efficiency on the job.
Technically, according to the rules, you can earn more with a job that depends on the fruits and vegetables that you pick compared to an hourly paid job for a minimum wage.
This means, once you’ve mastered the right picking techniques, you have a higher chance to make more too.
This also means that your salary will increase consequently with experience as you go but it’s crucial to note that collective agreements does not imply that you must get the minimum wage.
The slower you work, the less you get paid, sometimes below minimum wage and this is legal.
If you encounter any kind of trouble in regards to your salaries- if your employer refuses to pay you or if you feel like you haven’t been paid fairly contact Fairwork, the government agency responsible for disputes and conflicts in the workplace in Australia.
What Are The Work Hours and Working Conditions Like?
The work conditions when fruit picking in Perth can be a little difficult if you find it hard to adapt to different working conditions but is definitely doable for anyone.
You will need an overall good physical condition and just enough good spirit and courage to find your place in farm work.
The working hours can be quite demanding once the harvest is ready, as high productivity is generally expected for large volumes of harvest.
You may be required to work 6 or 7 days a week, with an average of 7 to 8 hours in the fields, so buckle on your bootstraps and get going!
Tips For Fruit Picking in Australia
Like we mentioned before, the more effective you are at harvesting your yield, the more money you make (more money, more honey, right?) so we’ve gathered some useful tips you can keep in mind for your upcoming fruit picking job in Perth!
- Master both your hands, as picking up fruits with both hands can be faster than doing it independently.
- When dealing with high trees, start from the top and slowly move downwards so that you won’t have to carry a heavy bucket to the top.
- Avoid damaging the fruit – most farms will monitor your collection baskets.
- Plan your trips according to pick up zones to avoid making unnecessary trips.
- Make sure to stretch and move your body from time to avoid injuries in the long run.
- Take your time and find a picking technique that works most efficiently for you.
- Remember to put down your buckets or bins in between trees to avoid spilling or knocking them over.
- If you are with a friend or with a partner, work together to maximise efficiency.
- Wear appropriate clothing – rubber gloves, boots, a comfortable pair of pants and a long sleeved shirt if possible. Also remember to always carry your sunscreen, water bottle and sunglasses with you.
- Do your best and maintain performance to keep on track with your fruit picking jobs.
Conclusion
There you go! Remember to do your research thoroughly before going on your fruit picking adventure and keep an eye out for your safety at all times.
Perth is a beautiful country rich with various types of produce, so you know you’ll be killing two birds with one stone – traveling and working when you take on this amazing experience of fruit picking in Perth.
We hope this humble guide to fruit picking in Perth help you find the right job at the right place – and everything you’ll need to know for this exciting experience you’re about to embark on!
![How To Make Money While Travelling Australia [27 Ways!]](https://womenwanderingbeyond.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/How-to-Make-Money-while-Travelling-Australia-1-768x512.jpg)
![Choosing the Best Backpacker Insurance Australia in [2023]](https://womenwanderingbeyond.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Backpacker-Insurance-Australia-768x512.jpg)
![Fruit Picking Jobs Denmark: Farms Hiring + What You Earn! [2024]](https://womenwanderingbeyond.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Fruit-Picking-Jobs-In-Denmark-32-768x576.jpg)