Backpacker Jobs in Cairns

Cairns is one of the best cities in Australia to find casual work fast. Hospitality, tourism, farm work and more — here’s everything you need to land a job.

See All Jobs →

Why Cairns is Great for Backpacker Work

Cairns has a tourism-driven economy that runs year-round. The city relies heavily on backpackers and working holiday visa holders to staff its restaurants, bars, dive boats, tour companies and resorts. That means jobs are available even without Australian experience.

💳

The card every backpacker needs — Wise

Most backpackers lose hundreds of dollars in bank fees while travelling. Wise gives you a free debit card that converts currency at the real exchange rate with minimal fees. Spend in AUD, receive your farm work pay, send money home — all in one app.

✓ Free card ✓ Real exchange rate ✓ No hidden fees ✓ 50+ currencies
Get Wise free →

We may earn a small commission if you sign up through our link, at no extra cost to you.

The key is knowing where to look, what to say, and when to turn up. Walk-in applications still work in Cairns — something that’s rare in most Australian cities.

Job Guides

💼 Best Backpacker Jobs in Cairns 🌾 88 Days Farm Work Guide 📋 Working Holiday Visa Guide 💰 How Much Can You Earn?

Types of Work Available

Hospitality Jobs

Cairns has hundreds of cafes, restaurants, bars and resorts all looking for wait staff, kitchen hands, baristas and bartenders. No experience is sometimes acceptable — a RSA certificate (Responsible Service of Alcohol) helps enormously and can be done online for around AUD $20–30.

Tourism and Dive Industry

Working on reef boats, in dive shops or as tour assistants is popular and often comes with staff discounts on activities. These jobs are competitive but very rewarding if you get them.

Farm Work (88 Days)

If you need to complete your 88 days for a second-year visa, the Atherton Tablelands region near Cairns has fruit picking, farm packing and agricultural work available most of the year.

💡 Local Tip: Gumtree, Seek and backpacker Facebook groups specific to Cairns are the best places to find work. Also visit the Cairns Backpacker Employment office on Abbott Street in person.

What You’ll Earn

💸 Pay Reality: Minimum wage in Australia is around AUD $24/hour (2025). Casual hospitality work typically pays AUD $25–30/hour. Farm work pays piece rate or minimum wage depending on the farm.

FAQ — Jobs in Cairns

How long does it take to find a job in Cairns?
Most backpackers find casual hospitality work within 1–2 weeks. The dry season (May–October) is the easiest time as tourism demand is at its highest.
Do I need a Tax File Number to work in Australia?
Yes. Apply for a TFN on the ATO website before you start work. It’s free and takes about a week to arrive. Without it your employer will withhold 47% tax.
Can I work on a tourist visa in Australia?
No. You need a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462) to work legally in Australia. Most backpackers in Cairns are on this visa.
What jobs count for my 88 days?
Regional work including farm work, fishing, mining and construction in designated regional postcodes counts toward your 88 days. Check the AHV website for an up-to-date list of eligible postcodes near Cairns.

Find Work in Cairns

Read our complete guide to every type of backpacker job available in Cairns

Full Jobs Guide →

🏨 Find Accommodation in Cairns

Best-rated hostels and budget hotels — compare prices and book instantly

🛏️

Hostels in Cairns

Budget dorm beds from AUD $25/night — social atmosphere guaranteed

Search Hostels
🏩

Budget Hotels in Cairns

Private rooms from AUD $75/night — perfect when you need your own space

Search Hotels
🌾

Accommodation Near Farms

Hostels and guesthouses on the Atherton Tablelands for 88 days workers

Search Tablelands