Backpacker Jobs Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie, NSW

Port Macquarie was originally one of Australia’s most notorious penal colonies. But it eventually became apparent that a sentence in this stunning part of the world wasn’t exactly a punishment.

Located between Sydney and Brisbane on the New South Wales Mid North Coast, Port Macquarie is a coastal community of 50,000 that combines the excitement and convenience of a city with the friendly, laid back feel of a country town. Mother Nature has also done some of her best work here, from the lazy waters that flow from the mouth of the Hastings River to the stunning beaches that extend for kilometres either side of the city proper.

Port Macquarie offers something for everyone: a steady supply of waves for surfers, fascinating stories for history buffs, and no small number of opportunities to earn for working holidaymakers looking to fund their trip.

Should a backpacker look to settle down in Port Macquarie for a while? And what exactly might the city offer 417 and 462 visa holders?

Let’s take a look.

Where is Port Macquarie, and how do I get there?

Port Macquarie is located on the Mid North Coast of NSW, 390km north of Sydney and 570km south of Brisbane. The NSW coastal hubs of Coffs Harbour (north) and Newcastle (south) are both just a couple of hours’ drive away.

Port Macquarie airport sees multiple flights arrive from and depart to Sydney every day, as well as the occasional Brisbane connection. But most working holidaymakers arrive by road, as the city forms part of the well trodden backpacker route along Australia’s east coast.

What is Port Macquarie famous for?

Port Macquarie isn’t known for one single thing, but rather an array. As a penal colony it was notorious as low in liberty and high in corporal punishment. Luckily for convicts it lasted just a decade, from 1820 to 1830.

After a century as a sleepy coastal village, it was only in the mid-1900s that the charms of Port Macquarie became common knowledge. It has since grown into a city famed for its stunning nature – particularly its pristine surf beaches – gorgeous weather and welcoming locals.

It has also developed a reputation for wildlife encounters, that can be found both in a number of local zoos and sanctuaries, and in the lush hinterland that surrounds the town.

What are Port Macquarie's must see attractions?

• Koala Hospital: This volunteer organisation is dedicated to rehabilitating sick and injured – but oh so cute – local wildlife. Nearby Billabong Zoo is another popular attraction, offering visitors up close encounters with furry locals.
• Timbertown: Logging might seem an odd theme to build a tourist attraction around, but Timbertown, 20km west of Port Macquarie, is a surprisingly interesting, exciting and generally cool place to check out!
• Tacking Point Lighthouse: Found at Tacking Point, a rocky headland that juts out into the Pacific, this cute little lighthouse is almost 150 years old, and serves up pristine views of the surrounding coast.
• Town Beach Park: Commanding 20 acres of prime real estate in the city centre, at Town Beach Park you’ll find Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory, Town Beach, a cafe, skate park, and endless grassy knolls primed for picnics. 
• Harry’s Lookout: Whale watching is one of Port Macquarie’s favourite pastimes, and there’s no better place to spot these majestic creatures than elevated above the Pacific Ocean at Harry’s Lookout..

Where should I stay in Port Macquarie?

For a discount dorm bed

The steady stream of backpackers and working holidaymakers flowing through town has resulted in a healthy hostel scene in Port Macquarie. There’s honestly no bad choice, but for the best of the best, look no further than Port Macquarie Backpackers, found in the centre of town.

For something slightly fancier

Ideally located at the mouth of the Hastings River and adjacent to Town Beach, NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park puts you in a cute cabin – or for those looking to save, on a cute campsite – right in the heart of the Port Macquarie action.

To treat yourself

Even backpackers deserve a little bit of luxury from time to time, and you’ll enjoy exactly that at Ana Mandara Luxury Retreat, an opulent bed and breakfast located on the banks of the Hastings River. 

Is there work for backpackers in Port Macquarie?

If you’re a 417 or 462 visa holder looking for a job – whether to replenish your savings or gain a second year visa – Port Macquarie is a fantastic option. Tourism generates plenty of jobs both directly and indirectly here, from serving meals or drinks on Clarence Street to punching ticket stubs at one of the local attractions.

Those looking to extend their visa are in luck too. While agriculture isn’t huge in Port Macquarie, the construction, manufacturing and forestry industries are, so many working holidaymakers have been able to knock over the specified work necessary to gain their second- or third-year visa.

Is Port Macquarie worth a visit for a working holidaymaker?

The short answer: it most certainly is.

As part of the east coast backpacking pilgrimage, many (if not most) long-term travellers will find themselves here at one point or another during their trip, and the combination of nature, fun, backpacker infrastructure and the opportunity to work means there’s a compelling case to call Port Macquarie home for a while.

But in reality, there’s only one way to find out whether Port Macquarie is worth a visit – take a look for yourself!