Abattoir Labourer Courses
An Abattoir Labourer prepares livestock for slaughter, cuts meat, handles cleaning, packaging, and loading tasks, requiring teamwork, safety focus, and flexibility.
AI Exposure
Low

Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Abattoir Labourer
Get qualified to work as a Abattoir Labourer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
AMP30815
Duration
12 months - 4 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
The AMP30815 Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher) is the trade qualification for retail butchers and their apprentices. Over 2.5 years of hands-on training you will gain both practical skills and industry knowledge, then graduate as a fully qualified butcher. The course covers: using knives and cutting tools, trimming and cutting different types of meat and poultry, personal safety, selling meat to customers, cleaning and sanitation.
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Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 4 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
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AMP20316
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
The AMP20316 Certificate II in Meat Processing (Abattoirs) is for new or experienced workers in the meat processing industry. It requires completion of an off-the-job component focusing on hygiene and sanitation, quality assurance, and workplace health and safety. This qualification covers work activities in an abattoir. Graduates will be able to access, record, and act on information from various sources, apply solutions to predictable problems, and use equipment to complete tasks involving known routine...
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
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AMP30616
The AMP30616 Certificate III in Meat Processing (General) is suitable for employees in various roles within the meat processing industry, such as QA officers, laboratory assistants, supervisors, and on-floor trainers. This qualification covers a broad range of activities in meat processing plants. Graduates will have cognitive, technical, and communication skills to complete routine tasks and solve predictable and unpredictable problems, demonstrating autonomy and judgement within established parameters.
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AMP31116
The AMP31116 Certificate III in Meat Processing (Livestock Handling) is the minimum qualification for labourers and leading hands working at stockyards or lairage. This course is completed over 2 years and teaches you how to prepare livestock for slaughter — while maintaining animal welfare and handling requirements. The course covers HACCP and legal standards of the Australian meat industry, and you can choose specialisations in team leadership, stock handling, and lairage.
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Common questions

How much does an Abattoir Labourer earn?
In Australia, a full time Abattoir Labourer generally earns $1,360 per week ($70,720 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for an Abattoir Labourer?
This industry has seen strong employment growth in recent years. There are currently 13,000 people employed as abattoir workers in Australia compared to 9,900 five years ago. Abattoir Labourers may find work in regions of Australia where abattoir facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become an Abattoir Labourer?
If you’re interested in a career as an Abattoir Labourer, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher). This course covers a range of topics including using knives and cutting tools and trimming and cutting different types of meat and poultry. You’ll also learn about personal safety and cleaning and sanitation.
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More information
An Abattoir Labourer undertakes various duties during the preparation of meat at an abattoir. You might prepare livestock for slaughter or cut meat from carcasses. Abattoir Labourers may be involved with cleaning and sanitation tasks or you may package and label meat cuts. You might get meat ready for transport or load it for delivery.
Abattoir Labourers should be flexible and able to handle a range of tasks during their day. It’s important that you can follow directions and work well in a team environment. Abattoir Labourers must be able to make safety a priority and should always work to correct procedures.
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