Cairns is the tourism capital of tropical North Queensland, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree. Most working holiday jobs are in tourism, reef and dive boats, hostels, hospitality and farm work on the tablelands. Tourism and hospitality work in northern Australia can count toward your second or third year visa.
Last checked: 7 November 2026
Cairns jobs hiring now
There are no Cairns jobs live right now. Here are the latest jobs across Australia, or set up a job alert for Cairns.
- Bar Staff
- MSP Service Delivery Specialist
- Airport Transfer & Tourism Driver – Brisbane then Cairns (Working Holiday)
- Drivers/Supervisors
- CCUSA
- Chef / Cook
- Hotel Receptionist
- GARDENING Assistant $35ph Casual
- Contract Site Supervisor
- Nail Technician
- Housekeeping
- Labourer – Aircraft Painting
What work is there in Cairns?
| Type of work | What to know |
|---|---|
| Tourism and reef boats | Deckhands, hosts and crew on reef and dive boats, plus tour desks and attractions. |
| Hostels and hospitality | Bars, restaurants and hostels along the Esplanade. |
| Dive work | Qualified divers and instructors can find work on the reef. |
| Farm work | Banana, mango and other farms on the Atherton Tablelands and around Innisfail. |
| Retail and tourism shops | Souvenir, dive and travel shops in the city. |
Pay
The national minimum wage is $26.44 an hour from 1 July 2026, and at least $33.05 an hour if you are a casual. Many jobs are covered by an award with higher rates, plus extra for weekends, nights and public holidays. Working holiday makers pay 15% tax on the first $45,000. Read more about pay rates and tax.
Best time to find work in Cairns
The dry season, roughly May to October, is peak tourist season and the best time to look for work. The wet season, about November to April, is hot and humid, and tourism slows down.
How to get hired fast
- Build an Australian style CV on the TAW CV builder and keep it to 1 or 2 pages.
- Get a local phone number and your Tax File Number before you start applying.
- Get the right certificate: an RSA for bar work, a White Card for building sites, and a barista course if you want cafe work.
- Apply early in the day and follow up in person where you can.
- Read our interview tips and the job safety checklist.
Living in Cairns
Tourism and hospitality work in northern Australia can count as specified work for your second or third year visa. Check that your employer’s postcode qualifies on our regional postcodes page before you start.
While you move around, a TAW Mailbox gives you a real Australian address for your bank card, tax letters and payslips.
Free for working holiday makers
Every job on TAW is open to 417 and 462 visa holders. Build your CV, save jobs and get alerts for Cairns.
Hiring in Cairns? Post a job for working holiday makers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a job in Cairns on a working holiday visa?
Yes. With a 417 or 462 visa you can work in any job for up to 6 months with one employer. Every job on TAW is open to working holiday makers.
What jobs can backpackers get in Cairns?
Tourism and reef boats, Hostels and hospitality, Dive work and Farm work are the most common.
How much do backpacker jobs in Cairns pay?
At least the national minimum wage of $26.44 an hour, or $33.05 as a casual, from 1 July 2026. Award rates and weekend penalty rates are often higher.
How long does it take to find work in Cairns?
Many working holiday makers find work within 1 to 3 weeks, faster in peak season and with a good CV and the right certificates.
Does work in Cairns count for my second year visa?
Tourism and hospitality work in northern Australia, including Cairns, can count as specified work, as can farm work in the region. Check the postcode on Home Affairs’ list before you start.
Sources: Fair Work Ombudsman: minimum wages, Home Affairs: Working Holiday visa (417).
