The FWO knows there’s a lot to remember when looking for work in Australia, so they’ve made it easier for you.
Read their simple tips below to help make sure you thrive when working the Harvest Trail:
Tip 1: Know who you are working for
If a job ad sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Before accepting a job, do some research on the employer and the location of the job. Ask who you are working for and what is the business name and Australian Business Number (ABN) and use this to check if the business is officially registered at the Australian Business Register.
The Australian Government has a Harvest Trail job website that connects job seekers with employers working the Harvest Trail.
Take the time to find an ethical and legitimate employer that pays the correct pay rates, provides pay slips and doesn’t try to take advantage of you.
Tip 2: Find the right place to stay
Sometimes an employer may offer accommodation with a job. This could mean living on the farm or in a nearby hostel. You have the right to choose where you live and can choose to find your own accommodation, like a share house, motel, caravan park or a backpacker’s hostel.
Tip 3: Pay slips and keep your own work records
Pay slips are important for making sure you’re being paid the correct wages and entitlements. You must be given a pay slip every time you’re paid.
It is also important to keep a record of the hours you work, where and the type of work you’re doing. Use a diary or download the FWO’s free Record My Hours app. The app is available in 18 languages.
Tip 4: Know your workplace rights and entitlements
As an international student, you have workplace rights like everyone else in Australia.
If you’re an adult casual worker picking fruit or vegetables and are being paid an hourly rate, you should be paid at least $26.73 an hour (as at 1 July 2022). This may be more depending on the type of work you’re doing. There are different minimum rates for full-time and part-time employees and juniors. Check your minimum hourly rate using the FWO’s Pay and Conditions Tool.
If you’re being paid piece rates under the Horticulture Award, certain rules apply. You can read the FWO’s Piecework rules have changed factsheet or visit the FWO Horticulture Showcase at www.fairwork.gov.au/horticulture to learn more about these rules. The factsheet is also available in 11 other languages.
Got a question or want to stay up to date with information about workplace laws?
You can find out more about your workplace rights and entitlements at the FWO’s website www.fairwork.gov.au. To keep up to date or if you have a question, you can:
- Register for My account to make an online enquiry
- Visit www.fairwork.gov.au/webinars to find out about the FWO’s upcoming free webinars
- Subscribe to the FWO’s email updates
- Follow the FWO on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn
- Call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 or the free Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
