Sheep Shearer Courses
A Sheep Shearer removes wool using shearing equipment, handling animals while ensuring their health and working long hours in a physically demanding role.
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 Sheep Shearer
Get qualified to work as a Sheep Shearer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
AHC32916
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
Learn to shear sheep at a professional level with the AHC32916 Certificate III in Shearing. This nationally recognised training course teaches you how to maintain consistent shearing performance while shearing at least 140 crossbred sheep per day. The course takes 12 months to complete and also covers equipment maintenance, animal welfare, work health and safety processes.
Enquire now for the list of training centres and enrolment opportunities.
Career opportunities
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
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AHC21316
Duration
2 weeks - 12 months
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
The AHC21316 Certificate II in Shearing is a hands-on course that brings your shearing skills and technique to a professional level. Over 18 weeks of study you’ll learn how to prepare and sharpen grind combs and cutters, as well as crutch and shear different breeds of sheep. Graduate able to shear at least 40 adult merino sheep or 50 adult crossbred sheep per day — the minimum standard for a novice shearer.
Enquire now for your nearest training centre and the list of upcoming enrolment dates.
Career opportunities
Duration
2 weeks - 12 months
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
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Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The Bachelor of Agriculture prepares students with essential agricultural knowledge and sharpens their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These capabilities are crucial for playing a significant role in enhancing the productivity and sustainability of contemporary agriculture. With an applied focus, this course offers industry-relevant training grounded in scientific principles, ensuring students are well-equipped for professional challenges in the agricultural sector.
Career opportunities
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Blended, On Campus, Online
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Duration
3 years - 4 years
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The Bachelor of Animal Science enhances understanding and skills in animal production, management, and welfare, encompassing both domestic and wildlife species. This course opens pathways to various careers across Australia and globally, including animal production enterprises, ancillary industries, educational or advisory roles, research laboratories, fieldwork, and management and conservation in diverse habitats and organisations. It prepares students for a multitude of opportunities in the animal scien...
Career opportunities
Duration
3 years - 4 years
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Sheep Shearer.
Common questions
How much does a Sheep Shearer earn?
In Australia, a full time Sheep Shearer generally earns $1,153 per week ($59,956 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 Sheep Shearer?
The number of people employed as a Sheep Shearer has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 6,500 people in this role in Australia compared to 5,800 five years ago. Sheep Shearers will usually find work in rural and regional areas of Australia.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal – 2019 Occupation Projections
How do I become a Sheep Shearer?
If you’re thinking of becoming a Sheep Shearer, a Certificate II in Shearing is an ideal qualification for you. You’ll learn a range of shearing skills and techniques and cover topics including preparing and sharpening grind combs and cutters and crutching and shearing different breeds of sheep. You could further your studies with a Certificate III in Shearing or a Certificate IV in Shearing Contracting.
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More information
A Sheep Shearer removes wool from sheep. You might use machine shears or hand held blades and you may be responsible for maintaining your shearing equipment. Sheep Shearers may have to collect sheep and get them ready for shearing and bring them back to counting pens afterwards. You’ll check animals for infections and keep an eye out for any problems with their wool.
Being a Sheep Shearer is a very physically demanding role. You’ll work long hours and need to be ready for heavy lifting and manual labour. Sheep Shearers need to be comfortable handling animals and should be skilled in using a range of shearing equipment. You’ll be working as part of a team and you must be capable of following directions.
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