Jockey Courses
A Jockey rides horses in races, assists with training, develops racing plans, and manages horse fitness, requiring physical fitness, tactical thinking, and teamwork.
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 Jockey
Get qualified to work as a Jockey with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
ACM40921
Estimated fee
From $13,000
The ACM40921 Certificate IV in Equine Care equips individuals with the skills and knowledge for specialised roles in equine establishments. Graduates may work autonomously as small business operators or as part of a management team. Career opportunities include roles such as horse clipper, head groom, lead stable hand, horse fitness and performance trainer, horse educator, and horse gear fitter and checker.
Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates.
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Estimated fee
From $13,000
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RGR40221
Become a professional jockey in the Australian racing industry with the Certificate IV in Racing (Jockey) (RGR40221). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to prepare and ride horses in official races, abiding by racing industry ethics and protocols. The course covers: riding in trials and races, improving race performance, sports science for jockeys, racing protests and enquiries, media interviews for racing, small business skills. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements...
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Jockey.
Common questions
How much does a Jockey earn?
In Australia, a full time Jockey generally earns $1,300 per week ($67,600 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.
What are the job opportunities for a Jockey?
The number of people working in this field has remained stable in recent years. There are
currently 580 people employed as a Jockey in Australia and this number has remained the
same over the last five years. Jockeys may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Jockey?
A Certificate IV in Racing (Jockey) is an excellent qualification if you’re planning a career as a
Jockey. You’ll develop the skills to prepare and ride horses in official races and adhere to
racing industry ethics and protocols. This course covers a range of topics including riding in
trials and races, improving race performance, sports science for jockeys, racing trials and
enquiries, media interviews for racing and small business skills.
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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 Jockey rides horses during professional races. You might assist with horse training in the lead up to racing events and ride horses during trial races. Jockeys work with trainers to develop racing plans and manage the strengths and fitness of horses. You’ll manage your horse during a race and ensure racing protocols are adhered to.
Jockeys should be physically fit and have strong horse handling abilities. You’ll need to have excellent analytical skills and be able to think tactically during races. Jockeys must be able to work as part of a team and communicate well with colleagues. You may have to work irregular hours when required.
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