Hey guys! Thinking about knocking out your 88 days of regional work in sunny Perth? You've come to the right place! Completing 88 days of specified work in regional Australia is a requirement for many working holiday visa holders (subclass 417 and 462) looking to extend their stay in this awesome country. Perth, with its vibrant city life and proximity to stunning regional areas, can be a fantastic base for fulfilling this requirement. Let's dive into everything you need to know about finding 88-day regional work jobs in and around Perth.

    Understanding the 88-Day Requirement

    Before we jump into job hunting, let's make sure we're all on the same page about the 88-day requirement. To be eligible for a second or third working holiday visa, you need to complete a minimum of 88 days (or three calendar months) of specified work in a designated regional area of Australia while holding your first working holiday visa. These days don't have to be consecutive, and you can even split them across multiple jobs or locations. The key thing is to ensure that the work you undertake falls under the list of eligible industries and is performed in a designated regional area as defined by the Australian government. Keep accurate records of your employment, including pay slips and employer details, as you'll need to provide these when you apply for your visa extension.

    Eligible Industries for Specified Work

    So, what kind of work counts towards your 88 days? The Australian government has a list of specified industries, which primarily include jobs in sectors facing labor shortages in regional areas. Here's a rundown of the main eligible industries:

    • Agriculture: This is probably the most common route for working holidaymakers. Think fruit picking, vegetable farming, harvesting crops, packing produce, and general farmhand duties. Agriculture is often readily available and can be a great way to experience rural life.
    • Mining: Opportunities in mining can be lucrative but often require specific skills and certifications. Entry-level positions might include laboring or assisting with various mining operations.
    • Construction: If you have some construction experience, this could be a viable option. Look for general laboring jobs on construction sites in regional areas.
    • Fishing and Pearling: Coastal regions may offer jobs in the fishing or pearling industries. This could involve working on fishing boats or in processing facilities.
    • Tree Farming and Felling: This involves working in tree plantations, felling trees, or processing timber. It's generally physically demanding work.
    • Tourism and Hospitality: In specific remote and very remote areas of Australia, certain tourism and hospitality jobs can count towards your 88 days. This is crucial and often overlooked, so always double-check the location's remoteness level! Think working in a remote outback pub or a tourism operation in a very isolated area.
    • Disaster Relief: Paid or volunteer work directly assisting with recovery efforts in areas affected by natural disasters may also be eligible. This is less common but can be a rewarding way to contribute.

    Finding Regional Work in and Around Perth

    Okay, now let's get practical. How do you actually find these 88-day regional work jobs in and around Perth? Here's a breakdown of effective strategies:

    • Online Job Boards: Seek is a great place to start, filtering by location and keywords like "farm work," "regional," or specific industries. Indeed and Gumtree are also worth checking regularly.
    • Specialized Websites: There are websites specifically dedicated to connecting backpackers with regional work. These often have listings tailored to the 88-day visa requirement. Some popular options include Backpacker Job Board and Jobsearch.
    • Recruitment Agencies: Several recruitment agencies specialize in placing temporary workers in regional jobs. Register with a few of these agencies and let them know your visa requirements. They can often provide leads on jobs that aren't advertised elsewhere.
    • Farm Work Hostels: Some hostels in regional areas cater specifically to working holidaymakers seeking farm work. They often have connections with local farmers and can help you find jobs in exchange for accommodation.
    • Direct Contact: Don't be afraid to reach out directly to farms or businesses in regional areas. Even if they don't have any positions advertised, they might be willing to take you on.
    • Networking: Talk to other backpackers, hostel staff, and locals. Word-of-mouth is often a powerful tool when it comes to finding regional work. Facebook groups aimed at backpackers in Australia are also a goldmine.

    Key Regional Areas Near Perth for 88-Day Work

    While Perth itself isn't considered a regional area for visa purposes, there are plenty of eligible locations within a reasonable driving distance. Here are some popular regions to consider:

    • The Wheatbelt: This vast agricultural region east of Perth is a major producer of wheat, barley, and other grains. It's a prime location for finding farm work, especially during harvest season.
    • The Peel Region: South of Perth, the Peel region offers a mix of agriculture, horticulture, and tourism opportunities. Look for jobs in orchards, vineyards, or tourism-related businesses.
    • The South West: This region is known for its stunning coastline, forests, and wineries. You might find work in vineyards, orchards, or tourism operations in towns like Margaret River, Busselton, and Dunsborough.
    • The Great Southern: Further south, the Great Southern region offers opportunities in agriculture, fishing, and forestry. Look for jobs in farms, fishing ports like Albany, or timber mills.

    Tips for a Successful 88-Day Work Experience

    To make the most of your 88-day regional work experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:

    • Be Prepared for Hard Work: Regional work can be physically demanding, and the hours can be long. Be prepared to work hard and get your hands dirty.
    • Do Your Research: Before accepting a job, research the employer and the working conditions. Read reviews online and talk to other backpackers who have worked there.
    • Check Accommodation Options: Accommodation in regional areas can be limited, so it's essential to arrange accommodation before you arrive. Some farms may offer on-site accommodation, while others may require you to find your own.
    • Be Aware of the Weather: Western Australia can experience extreme weather conditions, especially during summer. Be prepared for hot temperatures, strong winds, and bushfires. Always follow safety advice from your employer and local authorities.
    • Stay Safe: Regional areas can be remote, so it's essential to take precautions to stay safe. Let someone know where you're going, carry a first-aid kit, and be aware of your surroundings.
    • Keep Accurate Records: As mentioned earlier, keep detailed records of your employment, including pay slips, employer details, and dates of employment. This will make it much easier to apply for your visa extension.
    • Embrace the Experience: Working in regional Australia can be a fantastic opportunity to experience a different side of the country, meet new people, and learn new skills. Embrace the experience and make the most of it!

    Common Pitfalls to Avoid

    • Not verifying the regional area: Always double-check that the location is designated as regional by the Australian government. The list can change, so always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website.
    • Assuming all jobs count: As mentioned, only specified industries are eligible. Don't assume that any job in a regional area will count towards your 88 days.
    • Not keeping records: This is crucial! Without proper documentation, your visa extension application could be rejected.
    • Working for cash-in-hand: While tempting, this is illegal and won't count towards your 88 days. Always ensure you're paid legally and receive payslips.
    • Ignoring safety: Regional work can be dangerous if you're not careful. Always follow safety instructions and use appropriate protective equipment.

    Resources to Help You Find a Job

    In Conclusion

    Securing those 88 days of regional work around Perth is totally achievable with the right planning and information. Remember to research eligible areas and industries, keep meticulous records, and prioritize your safety. Good luck with your job hunt, and enjoy your Aussie adventure!

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