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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.
There are 3 courses available for people who want to become an Abattoir Labourer.
Possible job outcomes:
Become a rendering plant operator in the meat industry with the AMP30421 Certificate III in Meat Processing (Rendering). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to work in food processing and operate a range of meat rendering equipment and industrial machines. Competencies include: communicating with team members and supervisors, carrying out pre-op safety checks and hygiene assessments, staying safe on the job, rendering edible meat products, identifying and addressing environmental hazards. Enquire now for entry requirements, the list of elective units (and their availability), and course openings in your area..
Average duration: 12 months.
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. Enquire now for available training centres and your eligibility for subsidised training..
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. Enquire now for upcoming intake dates and the list of elective choices..
In Australia, a full time Abattoir Labourer generally earns $1,050 per week ($54,600 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.
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
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.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within meat processing. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Meat Processing
Abattoir Knife Hand
$1,050 weekly pay
Abattoir Labourer
Meat Inspector
$1,150 weekly pay
Meat Process Worker
Abattoir Supervisor
$1,350 weekly pay
Quality Assurance (Abattoir) Worker
Learn more about Abattoir Labourer courses in your area.