Farrier Courses
A Farrier trims and shapes horses’ hooves, fits custom shoes, treats hoof issues, and works irregular hours, requiring strong horse handling skills.
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 Farrier
Get qualified to work as a Farrier with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
ACM40818
Estimated fee
From $29,521
Duration
3 years - 4 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Turn your love of horses into a professional career with the ACM40818 Certificate IV in Farriery. During 3 years of practical training, this nationally recognised training course will teach you how to safely administer a full range of hoof care and horseshoeing services — plus give you the business skills you need to setup your own farrier service micro-business. The course covers: horse handling, horseshoe construction, welding, hoof trimming — and business skills related to tax, insurance and financial...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $29,521
Duration
3 years - 4 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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SIS40321
Become a skilled equestrian coach with the Certificate IV in Sport Coaching (Equestrian). This hands-on program teaches you essential horse riding and coaching techniques, preparing you to lead and inspire in the exciting realm of equestrian sports.
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22513VIC
If you want to work with horses you need the 22513VIC Certificate III in Equine Studies. This nationally recognised qualification will improve your knowledge of horse behaviour, and teach you how to work safely in a range of industries with horses. The course covers: horse handling, equine anatomy and physiology, horse feeding, pregnancy, health and welfare practices. Enquire now for the full list of study units, elective options, and enrolment centres near you.
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ACM30517
If you want to work with horses, get started with the ACM30517 Certificate III in Farriery. This nationally recognised training course takes 18 months to complete and involves a great deal of hands-on practical work. Learn how to: safely handle horses, weld, make and fit horseshoes, trim and maintain hoofs — plus use a variety of handheld and power tools.
Enquire now for the full list of study units and your eligibility for subsidised training.
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Farrier.
Common questions
How much does a Farrier earn?
In Australia, a full time Farrier generally earns $1,356 per week ($70,512 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 a Farrier?
The number of people working in this industry has remained stable in recent years. There are currently 1,000 people working as a Farrier in Australia compared to 920 five years ago. Farriers may find work across all regions of Australia but are usually busier in rural and regional areas.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Farrier?
A Certificate IV in Farriery is an ideal qualification if you’re planning to start a career as a Farrier. This course covers topics such as hoof care, horse handling, horseshoe construction, welding and hoof trimming. You’ll also study a range of business skills suitable for setting up your own farrier business.
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Browse here online for the latest courses in horse care, animal grooming, equestrian sports, veterinary nursing, animal behaviour, and pet shop management.
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Gain practical skills to work in kennels or catteries, providing love, grooming, and safety to animals. Check your funding eligibility and apply today.
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These courses don’t just teach you how to catch and euthanise stray animals, you will learn underpinning state legislation and local government regulations, safety management approaches, and incident response.
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These nationally recognised qualifications will teach you the finer points of animal behaviour and refine your skills in behaviour correction.
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More information
A Farrier looks after horses’ hooves including preparing their feet and applying horse shoes. You might assess hooves for health issues and trim or treat any problem areas. Farriers make horse shoes by shaping metal to fit the hoof using heating and hand tools. You’ll fit the shoes and nail them to horses’ hooves.
Farriers need excellent horse handling skills and should be skilled at hoof care. You’ll need excellent attention to detail and should be able to handle any problem behaviours during treatment and fitting. Farriers should have good customer service skills and be able to communicate well with clients. It’s important that you are flexible and you may have to work irregular hours.
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