Track Rider Courses
A Track Rider exercises horses for racing or training, improves their fitness, addresses behavioural issues, and works in a team, often with irregular hours.
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 Track Rider
Get qualified to work as a Track Rider with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
RGR30518
Study mode
Distance, On Campus, Traineeship
Get started in the horse racing industry as a track work rider with the RGR30518 Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider). This nationally recognised qualification will help you develop the high-level riding skills you need to exercise thoroughbred racehorses at varying paces. The course also covers: racing industry ethics and integrity, personal health and fitness for working with horses, attending horses at race meetings and trials, handling horses in the stables, horse behaviour knowledge. Enquire n...
Career opportunities
Study mode
Distance, On Campus, Traineeship
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RGR40118
Study mode
Distance, On Campus, Traineeship
Become a professional horse trainer working in the Australian racing industry with the RGR40118 Certificate IV in Racing (Racehorse Trainer). This nationally recognised qualification builds on your existing skills and experience, and teaches you how to supervise the handling of horses, manage horse welfare, and run a horse training business. The course also covers: selecting horses for different riders and handlers, applying knowledge of horse behaviour, managing equine biosecurity and infection controls,...
Career opportunities
Study mode
Distance, On Campus, Traineeship
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RGR20221
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
If you are looking for a start in the Australian horse racing industries try the RGR20221 Certificate II in Racing Industry. This entry-level qualification covers the racing industry essentials (horse behaviour, ethics, workplace safety, integrity) and will help you investigate potential job opportunities. Choose electives to support your career aspirations: stablehand, stud hand, track maintenance, racing administration, riding and horse handling skills. Enquire now for the full list of study units, avai...
Career opportunities
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
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ACM30821
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
Get a job caring for horses with the ACM30821 Certificate III in Horse Care. This nationally recognised certificate qualifies you for a number of roles including farm hand, horse groom, stud hand, and stablehand. Competencies include: handling horses safely, loading and unloading horses, preparing horses for an event, maintaining the health of horses, first aid and emergency care for horses, equine workplace essentials, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, equine career outc...
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Track Rider.
Common questions
How much does a Track Rider earn?
In Australia, a full time Track Rider generally earns $1,440 per week ($74,880 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 Track Rider?
This industry has experienced a drop in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 2,900 people working as a Track Rider in Australia, compared to 3,100 five years ago. Track Riders may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Track Rider?
If you’re interested in a career as a Track Rider, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider). You’ll develop high level riding skills to exercise thoroughbred racehorses. This course covers a range of topics including racing industry ethics, personal health and fitness for working with horses, attending to horses at race meetings and handling horses in stables.
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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 Track Rider trains and exercises horses. You’ll perform a range of track work activities to get horses ready for racing or get them used to being ridden for a particular purpose. Track Riders may also help horses recover from injury or develop their fitness over distance. You might also address problem equine behaviours.
Track Riders should be highly skilled and able to adapt their abilities to suit a range of circumstances. You should be passionate about horses and be able to work with challenging horse behaviours. Track Riders must be able to follow instructions and work well in a team. You may have to work irregular hours when required.
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