Think you know strange jobs? Australia’s unique environment has inspired some seriously unusual careers. Here’s a look at 13 of the most unexpected ways to make a living Down Under.
1. Submarine Chef
Cooking hundreds of meals daily in a cramped submarine kitchen isn’t for everyone, but senior submarine chefs in the Royal Australian Navy thrive on the challenge.
The role demands:
· Expert resource management in limited space
· Ability to maintain quality standards during months-long deployments
· Adaptability to prepare meals during combat situations
· Strong organizational skills and stress management
Salary range: $70,000 - $95,000 AUD annually, plus benefits
2. Crop Duster Pilot
Flying low over massive farmlands, crop dusters fertilize and protect Australian crops from pests. This adventurous role requires top-notch piloting skills.
Key responsibilities include:
· Executing precise aerial maneuvers for optimal crop coverage
· Understanding agricultural cycles and chemical applications
· Managing weather conditions and flight safety
· Maintaining detailed flight and application records
· Required qualifications: Commercial pilot's license, agricultural aviation certification
Average salary: $85,000 - $150,000 AUD annually
3. Shark Tagger
For marine enthusiasts, tagging sharks is thrilling. These pros observe, record, and tag sharks to aid in marine research, though it requires advanced diving skills.
Essential duties:
· Conducting underwater operations to attach tracking devices
· Collecting biological data and behavior patterns
· Contributing to shark conservation efforts
· Managing safety protocols during tagging operations
Required skills: Advanced diving certification, marine biology background
Salary range: $65,000 - $90,000 AUD annually
4. Koala Catcher
Caring for koalas after bushfires involves catching, monitoring, and relocating these iconic animals—a vital job for Australia’s wildlife conservation.
Core responsibilities:
· Safely capturing and relocating koalas
· Conducting health assessments
· Collecting population data
· Managing habitat preservation initiatives
Requirements: Wildlife handling certification, conservation experience
Average salary: $55,000 - $75,000 AUD annually
5. Pet Food Taster
Yes, someone taste-tests pet food! Professionals with refined palates ensure that pet food meets high flavour standards, even if it’s smelly work.
Daily tasks include:
· Sampling and evaluating pet food products
· Providing detailed flavour analysis
· Ensuring consistency across product lines
· Contributing to product development
Required qualities: Exceptional taste discrimination, strong analytical skills
Salary range: $60,000 - $90,000 AUD annually
6. Odour Evaluator
In the scent industry, evaluators help test fragrances, candles, and fresheners, requiring a sharp sense of smell and, often, a chemistry background.
Key responsibilities:
· Evaluating product fragrances
· Identifying subtle scent variations
· Contributing to fragrance development
· Ensuring quality control standards
Required background: Chemistry degree preferred, certified nose training
Average salary: $70,000 - $95,000 AUD annually
7. Roadkill Collector
Australia’s highways are vast, and roadkill collectors keep them clear. It’s a tough but essential job for road safety.
Primary duties:
· Systematic removal of roadkill
· Environmental impact documentation
· Coordinating with wildlife authorities
· Managing biological waste disposal
Requirements:
Environmental health certification, heavy vehicle license
Salary range: $50,000 - $65,000 AUD annually
8. Pearl Diver
Harvesting pearls from Australia’s shores involves diving, collecting oysters, and cultivating pearls—a job with traditional roots among Indigenous communities.
Essential responsibilities:
· Harvesting pearl oysters
· Maintaining oyster farms
· Implementing cultivation techniques
· Contributing to sustainable practices
Required skills: Commercial diving certification, aquaculture knowledge
Average salary: $75,000 - $120,000 AUD annually
9. Segway Tour Guide
For extroverts, leading Segway tours through scenic spots and historic sites is a fun way to share Australia’s wonders with tourists.
Core duties:
· Conducting guided tours
· Ensuring guest safety
· Sharing historical knowledge
· Managing group dynamics
Requirements: Tourism certification, first aid training
Salary range: $45,000 - $60,000 AUD annually
10. Worm Picker
Worm pickers supply bait for fishing, requiring sharp eyes and a tolerance for slimy work on worm farms.
Key responsibilities:
· Identifying and collecting specific worm species
· Maintaining worm farms
· Managing soil conditions
· Supporting sustainable practices
Required knowledge: Agricultural science background preferred Average salary: $40,000 - $55,000 AUD annually
11. Bed Tester
Testing beds before they hit the market means spending hours on mattresses and pillows and providing detailed comfort feedback.
Daily tasks:
· Evaluating mattress comfort and durability
· Testing sleep accessories
· Preparing detailed analysis reports
· Contributing to product development
Required skills: Attention to detail, analytical mindset Salary range: $55,000 - $80,000 AUD annually
12. Professional Cuddler
Professional cuddlers offer companionship for stressed or lonely clients, creating a safe and comforting environment for those who need it.
Core responsibilities:
· Providing platonic comfort services
· Maintaining professional boundaries
· Supporting emotional wellness
· Following safety protocols
Requirements: Counseling background preferred, first aid certification
Average salary: $70,000 - $110,000 AUD annually
13. Beer Taster
With a love for beer, tasters help perfect brews by identifying flavors and textures, making this job highly competitive in Australia.
Essential Duties:
· Evaluating beer qualities
· Providing detailed taste analysis
· Contributing to recipe development
· Ensuring consistency standards
Required background: Brewing certification preferred
Salary range: $65,000 - $85,000 AUD annually
