Arborist Trainee Courses
An Arborist Trainee assists with tree cutting and pruning, working under supervision, prioritising safety, teamwork, and communication outdoors.
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 Arborist Trainee
Get qualified to work as a Arborist Trainee with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
AHC20520
Duration
12 months - 15 months
The AHC20520 Certificate II in Arboriculture is an 18 week course that prepares you for tree lopping, transfer and removal work. It’s a nationally recognised qualification delivered via a mix of face-to-face practical sessions and online modules. You’ll learn how to use a range of powered saws and hand tools, plus work safely near electrical lines. The course covers: falling trees manually, pruning, trimming and cutting felled trees. You’ll also be qualified to work on a construction site.
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Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 15 months
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AHC50524
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Become a professional arborist with the AHC50524 Diploma of Arboriculture. This nationally recognised diploma builds on your existing arboriculture skills and teaches you how to carry out tree maintenance and removal in accordance with environmental standards in Australia. The course covers: identifying and specifying a wide range of tree species, diagnosing tree diseases, examining and assessing trees for pruning or removal. The course also delivers the administration skills you need to document your aud...
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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FWPCOT2274
Study mode
On Campus, Online
The FWPCOT2274 Fell Trees Manually (Basic) provides instruction on safely felling trees up to 50 cm in diameter and 20 metres in height, addressing common hazards in forest environments. It covers chainsaw maintenance, sharpening, and essential cutting techniques. This unit equips individuals in sectors like arboriculture, forestry, and land management with skills to assess and fell trees manually, excluding commercial harvesting operations apart from minor forest produce.
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Career opportunities
Study mode
On Campus, Online
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Arborist Trainee.
Common questions

How much does an Arborist Trainee earn?
In Australia, a full time Arborist Trainee generally earns $1,000 per week ($52,000 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 Arborist Trainee?
This industry has seen strong growth in employment numbers over the last five years. There
are currently 5,600 people employed as an Arborist in Australia and many of them are
completing their training. Arborist Trainees may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become an Arborist Trainee?
If you’re interested in a career as an Arborist Trainee, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in
Arboriculture. This course will prepare you for a range of tree lopping and removal work
using a range of powered saws and hand tools. You’ll learn to work safely near electrical
lines and develop skills in felling trees manually, pruning and trimming.
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Equip yourself with a foundation of core skills as well as leadership and business training to enter the horticulture field with confidence. Start today!
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Specialise in arboriculture, and play a key role in managing and preserving urban forests and parks for future generations. Education pathways for domestic and international students.
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Learn how to cultivate and nurture the environment, specialising in gardening, landscape design, and plant care. Pathways for domestic and international students.
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Learn to install and manage advanced irrigation systems, acquiring skills crucial for roles in agriculture, sports complexes, and public gardens. Pathways for domestic and international students.
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More information
An Arborist Trainee assists with cutting and pruning trees in a range of settings. You’ll work alongside qualified arborists to fell trees that are unsafe or in need of removal. Arborist Trainees also remove problem branches or trim trees to meet clients’ needs. You might use a climbing harness system during your work or may complete your work from ground level. Arborist Trainees should be safety focused and able to work as part of a team.
Communication skills are important and you’ll need to be physically fit for this role. Arborist Trainees should enjoy working outdoors and may have to perform their duties in a range of weather conditions.
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