Thinking about working abroad in 2025? Want a job that doesn’t require a university degree but offers a stable income and legal work?
Dairy farming jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship might be your way in.
Australia’s dairy industry is huge. And like many agricultural sectors, it’s facing a labor shortage. That’s why many farms across the country are now hiring foreign workers — offering sponsored work visas, on-the-job training, and sometimes even free accommodation.
Whether you’re already familiar with farm work or you’re just someone who isn’t afraid to get their hands dirty, there’s opportunity here.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know — from job roles and requirements to salary and how to apply online.
Contents
Why Australia Needs Dairy Farm Workers
Australia is one of the top 10 dairy exporters in the world. Milk, cheese, yogurt — all of it comes from thousands of dairy farms scattered across the country.
But the problem? Local interest in farm jobs is declining, especially in rural areas. As older workers retire, there just aren’t enough people to fill their boots.
That’s why more dairy farmers are opening their doors to international workers through Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and agriculture visa programs.
In 2025, this demand is only growing — especially in states like Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales.
What You’ll Do on a Dairy Farm
Dairy farming is a hands-on job. It’s not glamorous, but it’s honest, steady, and often peaceful. You’ll work with cows, machines, and people — often in beautiful open countryside.
Typical duties include:
- Milking cows (manually or using automatic systems)
- Feeding and watering livestock
- Cleaning barns, stalls, and milking equipment
- Monitoring cow health (looking for signs of illness or injury)
- Assisting with calving (birth of calves)
- Maintaining fences and farm tools
- Recording milk production and animal behavior
Most work is early morning or evening — when cows are milked. It’s physical work, often in all weather, but many people find it rewarding.
Who Can Apply?
You don’t need a fancy degree to work on a dairy farm in Australia. What matters more is your work ethic, health, and attitude.
Basic eligibility:
- Age 21–45 (preferred by most employers)
- Physically fit and able to handle outdoor work
- Basic English communication skills
- Willing to work long hours, weekends, and holidays if needed
- No serious medical or criminal record
- Valid passport
If you have any farm experience — especially with animals — that’s a big plus. But even beginners can apply. Many employers offer on-site training.
Visa Sponsorship Options
If you’re not an Australian citizen or resident, you’ll need a work visa. Most dairy farm jobs for foreigners fall under these categories:
1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
- Sponsored by an approved employer
- Usually valid for 2–4 years
- Must work for the sponsoring company
- Can lead to permanent residency in some cases
2. Australian Agriculture Visa (for selected countries)
- Seasonal or temporary farm work
- Can include dairy, fruit picking, harvesting, etc.
- Allows multiple entry and stays up to 3 years
Your employer will guide you through the application process after selection. You may need to undergo a medical exam and submit police clearance before approval.
Salary for Dairy Farm Jobs in 2025
Salaries vary based on the region, your experience, and the size of the farm. Here’s what you can expect:
| Job Role | Hourly Rate (AUD) | Monthly Pay (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| General Farm Worker | $22 – $26 | $3,500 – $4,200 |
| Dairy Hand / Milker | $23 – $28 | $3,700 – $4,600 |
| Experienced Supervisor | $30+ | $5,000+ |
Note: Overtime and weekend work may be paid at a higher rate.
Additional Benefits:
- Free or subsidized housing on-site
- Utilities and internet sometimes included
- Transport to town for groceries or supplies
- Work clothes and boots provided
- Paid holidays and sick leave (in full-time contracts)
Where in Australia Are These Jobs?
Dairy farms are located in rural and regional areas — far from busy cities, but rich in nature and space.
Top hiring regions in 2025:
- Victoria – the heart of Australian dairy (Gippsland, Warrnambool)
- Tasmania – cool climate, clean air, strong dairy industry
- New South Wales – farms near Wagga Wagga, Nowra, and Hunter Valley
- South Australia – smaller farms with year-round work
- Queensland – warmer weather farms, often mixed with cattle
You’ll likely live in farm cottages or shared staff housing — quiet and basic, but comfortable.
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Updated CV/resume (include physical ability, experience, and language skills)
- Passport copy
- Reference letters (if you have farm or labor experience)
- Medical check-up (some employers request it early)
- Willingness to work and relocate (mention clearly)
Step 2: Start Searching
Use job websites and keywords like:
- “Dairy farm jobs Australia with visa sponsorship 2025”
- “482 visa dairy jobs in Australia”
- “Australia agriculture visa dairy work apply”
Best job platforms:
- Seek.com.au
- JobSearch.gov.au (official Australian job site)
- Indeed.com.au
- AgriLabour.com.au (specialized in farm recruitment)
- Rural Enterprises Australia
- LinkedIn Jobs – Australia region
Look for roles that mention:
“Visa sponsorship available”, “482 visa”, or “foreign workers welcome”.
A Day on the Job
You wake up before sunrise. The cows are already moving. It’s quiet, except for the morning sounds of the farm.
You work with a small team, maybe 5 to 10 people. The tasks are clear: milk the cows, feed the calves, clean the stalls. After breakfast, you help with fencing or check the water pumps.
By the afternoon, the second round of milking begins. It’s tiring, but satisfying. And at the end of the day, you sit outside and watch the sunset over the fields.
Final Thoughts
Dairy farming jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship in 2025 are more than just work — they’re a pathway to a new life.
No degree? No problem. If you’re strong, humble, and ready to work, there’s a place for you.
You’ll earn a steady income, live in peaceful countryside, and gain experience in one of the world’s most respected agricultural industries.
So what are you waiting for? Start applying today. The cows won’t wait, and neither will this opportunity.