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An Animal Control Officer helps to enforce laws relating to the treatment of animals. You might have to help capture animals that are lost or have been abandoned or deal with an animal that is behaving dangerously. Animal Control Officers might investigate complaints about the mistreatment of animals and may have to prepare reports on their findings or appear in court in animal care cases. Animal Control Officers might also spend time working in animal shelters.
Animal Control Officers need excellent animal handling skills. You’ll have to be patient and confident with all sorts of animals, even those acting aggressively. Animal Control Officers work a range of shifts and are often required on weekends. You’ll need good administrative skills and have to be an excellent problem solver. You’ll be working as part of a larger group so teamwork and communication are crucial.
There are 5 courses available for people who want to become an Animal Control Officer.
Possible job outcomes:
The Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour) offers an understanding of the societal and ethical contexts of conservation biology, animal behaviour, and animal welfare. This degree provides training in retrieving, analysing, and evaluating information pertinent to animal behaviour. It also focuses on effectively communicating this information to diverse audiences. This course is ideal for those seeking to gain comprehensive knowledge and skills in animal behaviour within the broader framework of conservation and ethical considerations. .
Average duration: 3 years.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Animal Science) offers an in-depth exploration of animal biology, physiology, and behaviour. Students will gain comprehensive knowledge of animal health, genetics, and nutrition, underpinning sustainable and humane animal management practices. Through rigorous academic study and hands-on research opportunities, this course prepares graduates for careers in animal-related industries, research, or further academic pursuits, ensuring a holistic understanding of animal systems and welfare..
Average duration: 12 months.
The Bachelor of Science (Animal Science) provides an in-depth understanding of animal behaviour, health, welfare, nutrition, production, reproduction, and human-animal interactions. Students gain hands-on experience with diverse animal facilities, from reptiles and native mammals to sheep and cattle, and collaboration with wildlife parks, zoos, and farms. As human-animal interactions grow, especially in companionship and food production, graduates are poised for diverse careers including animal welfare officer, life scientist, quarantine officer, and roles in research, teaching, and government sectors..
Get a job in animal care with the ACM40222 Certificate IV in Animal Facility Management. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to oversee animal welfare at boarding kennels, breeding facilities, zoos, and wildlife parks and has specialisations in companion animal facilities, wildlife and exhibited animals, and general domestic care. Competencies include: maintaining site work health and safety, implementing animal welfare programs, overseeing site biosecurity and infection controls when working with animals, developing animal enrichment strategies, and much more. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, animal industry career outcomes, and enrolment opportunities near you that offer this qualification..
The nationally recognised ACM40122 Certificate IV in Animal Regulation and Management is the qualification for Council Pound Officers as well as people working at animal shelters and rural community outreach. You’ll learn how to administer animal management and regulatory requirements then choose electives that support your actual job role: investigations, animal holding facilities, animal management education, rural and remote community outreach. Competencies include: assessing and impounding animals, compiling official notes, responding to problem animal behaviour, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of study units, entry requirements, and training providers near you that offer this qualification..
In Australia, a full time Animal Control Officer 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.
There are currently 16,500 animal attendants in Australia and many of them are employed as Animal Control Officers. This number is expected to increase over the next five years. Animal Control Officers can be found in all areas of Australia.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal – 2019 Occupation Projections
A Certificate III in Animal Studies is a good option if you’re considering becoming an Animal Control Officer. This course usually takes six months and covers everything you need to know about the care, capture, handling and transportation of animals.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within animal control and regulation. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Animal Control and Regulation
Animal Shelter Attendant
$960 weekly pay
Animal Control Officer
$1,050 weekly pay
Animal Management Officer
Animal Shelter Manager
Wildlife Management Officer
$1,250 weekly pay
Learn more about Animal Control Officer courses in your area.