Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

A Fruit and Vegetable Factory Worker, as classified under ANZSCO code 831115, performs routine process work in food manufacturing facilities across Australia. These workers are integral to the operations of factories that process, pack, and prepare fresh produce and related products for distribution and sale. Their work supports Australia's significant food export industry and domestic supply chains. The classification is part of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), a system used for collecting and publishing occupational statistics. While this classification is still referenced, users should note it may be part of legacy datasets or used for cross-referencing in migration and archival contexts rather than representing current, detailed job descriptions.

Key tasks in practice

While a specific task list is not provided for this occupation in the ANZSCO, the classification structure and related ISCO crosswalk suggest typical duties. These are generally manual and machine-operating tasks on a production line.

Workers in this role are likely to be involved in:

  • Sorting, grading, and inspecting raw fruit and vegetables upon arrival at the facility.
  • Operating machinery used for washing, peeling, cutting, and mixing produce.
  • Monitoring automated processing and packaging equipment to ensure it functions correctly.
  • Packing finished products into containers or packaging for storage and shipment.
  • Following strict health, safety, and hygiene protocols to maintain food quality standards.
  • Performing basic cleaning and sanitation of work areas and equipment.

Skill level explanation

This occupation is designated as ANZSCO Skill Level 5. This is the lowest skill level in the classification, indicating that most roles in this unit group require a skill level commensurate with:

  • The completion of compulsory secondary education (Australian Year 10 or equivalent), and/or
  • On-the-job training and experience for a short period, typically up to one year.

In practical terms, this means the tasks are often routine, procedural, and performed under direct supervision. Workers are expected to follow established guidelines and protocols rather than exercise significant judgement or require formal vocational qualifications. The skill level is a statistical indicator for census and labour market analysis, not a regulated requirement for employment.

Industry context

Fruit and Vegetable Factory Workers are employed within the broader Australian food product manufacturing sector. The related ANZSIC (Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification) codes provide context for the typical industries of employment.

These include:

  • ANZSIC 1172: Fruit and Vegetable Processing – This is the most directly relevant industry, involving the preservation and transformation of fresh produce.
  • ANZSIC 1140: Seafood Processing – Workers may perform similar processing tasks in facilities handling seafood products.
  • ANZSIC 1171: Meat and Meat Product Manufacturing – Some tasks, particularly in packaging and preparation, may overlap in meat processing plants.
  • ANZSIC 1173: Dairy Product Manufacturing – Employment may also be found in facilities processing dairy, where similar factory process work is required.

These roles are typically found in regional areas close to agricultural production hubs as well as in metropolitan food distribution centres.