Living and working in Australia is an incredible experience – from wide-open farmland to sunny beaches and vibrant regional communities, there’s a lot to enjoy. While ag jobs here are well supported, it’s always useful to know some basic first aid. Australia’s unique mix of wildlife, weather and an outdoor lifestyle means that being prepared can help you feel confident and calm if something unexpected happens. Here are some handy first aid essentials to keep in mind while you’re in Australia.
Snake bites
Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes but bites are rare. In the event of a snake bite staying calm is key. If someone is bitten, keep them as still as possible and apply a pressure immobilisation bandage – ideally a wide elasticised bandage, if you have one. Don’t try to suck out the venom or wash the wound. Call 000 immediately and wait for medical help.
Sunstroke and heat exhaustion
With Australia’s hot climate, especially in summer and rural areas, heat-related illness is something to be mindful of. If someone shows signs like dizziness, nausea or confusion, move them to a cool spot, give them sips of water and cool their body with damp cloth. If symptoms are severe call 000. Prevention is best — stay hydrated, wear a hat and take breaks in the shade.
Spider bites
Most spider bites in Australia are harmless, but a few species like the redback and funnel-web can cause more serious reactions. For redback bites, wash the area and apply a cold pack to relieve pain. For funnel-web bites, treat it like a snake bite with a pressure bandage and call 000 immediately. If you’re unsure what spider caused the bite, always opt for caution and get medical help.
Stings in the water
From bluebottles to jellyfish, stings are a common part of beach life in Australia. If stung by a bluebottle, rinse the area in warm water or apply a heat pack to ease the pain. For more serious jellyfish stings, call for help and follow local beach safety advice — surf lifesavers are the best people to guide you. Vinegar is often recommended for certain stings, but only used if advised by professionals on site.
CPR at the beach
Knowing how to perform CPR can be life-saving — not just at the beach, but anywhere. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing, call 000 straight away, then start CPR by pushing firmly in the centre of their chest at a steady rhythm (about 100–120 compressions per minute). If you’ve been trained in rescue breaths, combine them with compressions. Otherwise, keep going with chest compressions until help arrives.
Car accidents
Even if you’re not driving, it’s possible to come across a car accident in rural Australia. If you do, the most important thing is to stay calm. Call 000 immediately, check the scene is safe, and don’t move injured people unless they are in immediate danger (like from fire). Providing reassurance and waiting with them until emergency services arrive can make a huge difference.
Be prepared, stay safe
Knowing a little first aid can go a long way in Australia – whether you’re out on the farm, heading to the beach or just travelling between towns. Most of the time you won’t need it, but having the knowledge means you’ll feel more confident in your day-to-day life.
And remember – Agri Labour Australia is always here to support you during your stay. If you have any concerns about your health, safety or wellbeing, our team is just a phone call away.
