Australia continues to welcome foreign workers into essential service roles, and cleaning jobs remain one of the most accessible entry points into the Australian labor market. With high demand in commercial, residential, and hospitality sectors, many cleaning companies and facility management services offer visa sponsorship for qualified and reliable applicants. This guide explains how to apply for cleaner jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship in 2025.
Why Australia Is Hiring Foreign Cleaners
Due to ongoing staff shortages in support and cleaning services, Australia’s government allows employers in sectors like healthcare, aged care, hotels, and schools to recruit workers from overseas. Many employers in rural or high-demand urban areas sponsor foreign nationals to fill cleaner roles that are essential for sanitation and public safety.
Visa Sponsorship Overview
Cleaner roles can be sponsored through the following immigration programs:
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 Visa: For employers looking to fill skilled or semi-skilled roles, including cleaning supervisors and commercial cleaners
- Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs): Special regional agreements that allow visa sponsorship for lower-skilled roles, including cleaners
- Working Holiday Visa: For temporary cleaner jobs (only available for citizens of eligible countries)
Some cleaners may also be eligible for pathways to permanent residency after gaining work experience under the TSS or DAMA visa programs.
Types of Cleaner Jobs Available
- Commercial and office cleaners
- Hospital and aged care cleaners
- Hotel and housekeeping cleaners
- Industrial and construction site cleaners
- School and public facility janitors
Requirements and Qualifications
- No formal education required
- Basic English communication skills (speaking and reading)
- Ability to work early mornings, evenings, or overnight shifts
- Willingness to perform physical tasks and use cleaning equipment
- Experience in cleaning or janitorial work is an advantage but not always required
Salary and Benefits
- Hourly wage: AUD $22 to $30 depending on location and type of cleaning
- Overtime and penalty rates for weekends or late-night shifts
- Health and safety protections under Australian labor law
- Paid holidays, sick leave, and employer superannuation contributions
- Visa sponsorship and possible relocation assistance
Top Locations Hiring Foreign Cleaners
- Sydney – commercial buildings and hospitals
- Melbourne – hotel and school cleaning roles
- Brisbane and Gold Coast – tourism and hospitality cleaning
- Regional areas in Northern Territory and Western Australia under DAMA
- Canberra and Adelaide – government and institutional facilities
Where to Find Jobs
- Seek.com.au – Australia’s largest job portal (search “cleaner visa sponsorship”)
- Indeed.com.au – job listings for cleaning roles with filters for sponsorship
- Jora and Workforce Australia (govt site) – cleaner and maintenance job postings
- Recruitment agencies like Spotless, ISS, and Compass Group
- Hotel and hospital websites with direct hiring programs
How to Apply
- Search for cleaner roles that offer visa sponsorship or relocation support
- Prepare a basic resume with your work history, availability, and language skills
- Submit your application through the employer’s site or job portal
- Attend interviews, often conducted online for international applicants
- If hired, your employer will lodge the TSS or DAMA visa nomination
- Apply for your work visa and begin the relocation process once approved
Latest Openings
- Commercial Cleaner – Sydney CBD, AUD $25/hour + visa sponsorship [Apply Now]
- Housekeeping Attendant – Brisbane Hotel, AUD $24/hour + accommodation [Apply Now]
Final Tips
- Apply early, especially for jobs in hotels and hospitals with high turnover
- Include references if you have previous experience in cleaning roles
- Check if your nationality is eligible for specific regional visa programs
- Only work with approved employers or licensed Australian migration agents
FAQs
Q: Do I need a certificate or training to work as a cleaner in Australia?
A: No. Most employers provide on-the-job training, though experience is an advantage.
Q: Can I get permanent residency as a cleaner?
A: Yes. Some regional areas offer PR pathways under the DAMA or after 2–3 years on a TSS visa.
Q: Will I receive accommodation from the employer?
A: Some hotel or regional employers offer subsidized housing. Confirm before signing your contract.
Conclusion
Cleaner jobs in Australia are a practical and legal way for foreigners to gain work experience, earn a living wage, and potentially settle long-term. With visa sponsorship available through TSS and DAMA programs, 2025 is a great time to apply and begin your Australian journey in the cleaning and support services sector.