Australia is clean, green, and full of opportunity. But behind every spotless hotel room, hospital corridor, office building, and shopping mall, there’s a workforce keeping the country running
The good news? Many employers are now offering cleaning jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship, with wages starting from $29.27 per hour. For foreign workers, this is one of the most accessible and realistic pathways to work abroad legally.
Why Australia Needs Foreign Cleaners
Australia’s cleaning and facilities management industry is growing fast due to:
- Expansion of hospitals, aged-care facilities, and hotels
- Tourism recovery and airport growth
- Increased hygiene standards in offices and public buildings
- A shortage of local workers willing to do physical cleaning jobs
Many Australians avoid cleaning roles due to early hours, physical demands, or lack of long-term interest. As a result, approved employers now recruit overseas workers to fill these gaps legally through visa sponsorship programs.
What Do Cleaning Jobs Involved?
Cleaning roles depend on the workplace, but core duties are similar across sectors.
Common Responsibilities
- Sweeping and mopping floors
- Vacuuming carpets
- Cleaning bathrooms and kitchens
- Dusting furniture and surfaces
- Emptying trash and replacing liners
- Sanitising high-touch areas
- Restocking cleaning supplies
Work Environments
- Hotels and resorts
- Hospitals and aged-care facilities
- Airports and transport hubs
- Office buildings
- Schools and shopping centres
Who Can Apply?
Cleaning jobs with visa sponsorship in Australia are open to applicants from many countries.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- 18 years or older
- Valid passport
- Basic English (understanding instructions)
- Physically fit for standing, lifting, and walking
- Clean criminal record
- Willingness to work shifts (early mornings, nights, weekends)
Previous cleaning experience helps but is not mandatory. Many employers provide on-the-job training after arrival.
Visa Sponsorship Options for Cleaners
Visa sponsorship means an Australian employer legally supports your work visa application.
Common Visa Types
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
- For commercial, hospital, or aged-care cleaning
- The employer sponsors you directly
- Full-time work rights
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
- For jobs in regional or rural Australia
- Strong demand, higher approval chances
- Pathway to permanent residency
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 / 462)
- For ages 18–35 (country-specific)
- Allows short-term cleaning work
- No long-term sponsorship guarantee
Student Visa (with work rights)
- For students already in Australia
- Limited weekly hours
Salary and Benefits
Cleaning jobs in Australia are well-paid compared to many countries.
Average Pay
- Hourly wage: AUD $28.50 – $32.00
- Average base rate: AUD $29.27 per hour
- Weekly income: AUD $1,000 – $1,300 (full-time)
Extra Earnings
- Overtime for nights, weekends, public holidays
- Casual roles often pay higher hourly rates
Common Benefits
- Paid annual and sick leave (full-time)
- Free uniforms and safety equipment
- Superannuation contributions
- Accommodation assistance in regional areas
Where Are the Jobs Located?
Visa-sponsored cleaning roles are available nationwide, especially in:
- Sydney – hotels, airports, offices
- Melbourne – hospitals and commercial buildings
- Brisbane – aged care and residential cleaning
- Perth & Adelaide – schools and public facilities
- Regional towns – very high demand, fewer local workers
How to Apply for Cleaning Jobs in Australia (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Valid passport
- CV/resume in English
- Reference letters (if available)
- Police clearance
- Any basic training certificates (optional)
Step 2: Search on Trusted Job Platforms
- SEEK Australia
- Indeed Australia
- Workforce Australia
- Jobactive
- Gumtree Jobs (local roles)
Search terms:
- “Cleaning jobs Australia visa sponsorship 2026”
- “Hotel cleaner jobs Australia for foreigners”
- “Commercial cleaner visa sponsor Australia”
Step 3: Apply Directly or via Agencies
Apply through official company websites or licensed recruitment agencies.
Never pay upfront fees for a visa or job offer. Legitimate sponsors follow Australian law.
Step 4: Attend Online Interview
Most interviews happen via Zoom or WhatsApp. Be clear, polite, and honest about your availability and expectations.
Conclusion
Cleaning jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship in 2026 are not low-value work they are high-demand, fairly paid, and legally supported opportunities.
With wages starting at $29.27 per hour, strong worker protections, and a peaceful lifestyle, this is one of the best entry-level work visas available for foreigners today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree for cleaning jobs in Australia?
No. These roles focus on reliability and physical ability, not education.
Is visa sponsorship guaranteed?
Only if the employer is a registered sponsor and offers you a contract.
Can cleaning jobs lead to permanent residency?
Yes, especially through regional visas like Subclass 494.
Is English mandatory?
Basic English is required to follow instructions and safety rules.