Australia is a country full of adventure, natural beauty and unforgettable moments. If you’re here for work, make the most of your time here and explore what makes the land down under truly unique. Here are some must-do Aussie experiences you won’t want to miss.
Try some classic Australian food
There are a few iconic foods you’ve got to try while you’re here. Meat pies are a staple at bakeries across the country, best enjoyed with tomato sauce and a cold drink. If you’re feeling adventurous, give a dagwood dog a go – these battered sausage-on-a-stick snacks are a classic at fish and chipperies as well as shows and festivals.
You might also spot Vegemite in your host’s pantry or the local supermarket. This spread is salty, strong and definitely a love-it-or-hate-it experience – but worth a taste just to say you gave it a try. And of course, no Aussie experience is complete without a barbecue. Whether it’s with mates at a public park or on a worksite during a lunch break, barbecues are a big part of Aussie culture.
Hit the beach
From the famous white sands of the Gold Coast to Bondi Beach in Sydney, or the quieter local spots near regional towns, a beach day is a great way to relax after a big week at work. If you’re swimming, be sure to stick between the red and yellow flags, which show where it’s safe to swim. And don’t forget to be sun safe!
See the big things
Australia has a quirky tradition of building “big things” – large roadside sculptures that make for fun photo stops during your travels. Some of the most famous of the bunch include the Big Banana (Coffs Harbour), Big Pineapple (Sunshine Coast), Big Merino (Goulburn) and Big Prawn (Ballina).
If you’re planning a road trip while you’re in Australia, spotting big things along the way can become a highlight of the journey. If you’re planning to drive while in Australia, check out our blog on buying a car in Australia for advice on what to consider.
Go bush or climb a mountain
Australia has some incredible national parks and hiking trails. If you’re up for a challenge, try climbing Mount Gower in northern New South Wales, or explore the Grampians in Victoria. If you’re looking for something gentler, many regions have scenic walking trails through bushland or past rivers and waterfalls.
Just be sure to pack sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat and carry plenty of water – even on short walks, the Aussie sun can be intense. For more tips, read our guide to Australian seasons.
Spot Australian wildlife
You’ve probably heard about kangaroos, koalas and wombats – but have you seen them in real life? National parks, wildlife reserves and even some roadsides in regional areas are great places to spot Australian animals. Just remember to keep a safe distance and never feed our native friends.
If you’re near the coast, you might even see dolphins, sea turtles or whales during their migration season.
Attend a local show or community event
Agricultural shows are a fun way to get involved with the community and experience the local culture. There’s usually a mix of food stalls, show bags, livestock displays, rides and competitions – and they happen all around the country, especially in rural areas.
You can also check out weekend markets, music festivals or even small-town sporting matches, where locals gather to cheer on their teams – a great way to make friends while working in Australia.
Make the most of your time here
Whether you’re here for a few months or a few years, working in Australia is a unique opportunity – not just for your career but for your life experience too. So take time to explore, try new things and get to know the country beyond your work placement.
If you ever need support settling in or want advice about life in Australia, the Agri Labour Australia team is always here to help.
