Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

ANZSCO 121315 Goat Farmers are agricultural managers who plan, organise, control, and coordinate farming operations focused on breeding and raising goats. In Australia, these professionals typically manage enterprises producing goat meat (chevon), milk for dairy products, or fibre such as mohair and cashmere. Their role encompasses strategic decision-making about breeding programs, pasture management, herd health, and business operations to ensure commercial viability. This classification sits within the Livestock Farmers unit group and represents a managerial occupation requiring substantial expertise in both animal husbandry and farm business management.

The ANZSCO system classifies this occupation for statistical and administrative purposes, particularly within Australia's migration framework. While the classification structure provides a standardized reference, actual job roles may vary significantly based on farm size, production system (e.g., extensive rangeland versus intensive dairy), and market focus.

Key tasks in practice

While no official task list is provided for this specific occupation, based on its classification within the Livestock Farmers unit group and Skill Level 1, typical responsibilities include:

  • Planning and managing breeding programs, herd structure, and genetic selection to meet production targets
  • Organising and overseeing daily operations including feeding, mustering, milking, and pasture management
  • Implementing animal health programs including parasite control, vaccination schedules, and disease management
  • Managing financial aspects such as budgeting, record-keeping, and marketing of livestock or products
  • Selecting, training, and supervising farm staff and contractors
  • Ensuring compliance with animal welfare standards, environmental regulations, and workplace health and safety requirements

Skill level explanation

ANZSCO assigns Goat Farmers a Skill Level 1 classification, indicating this occupation typically requires a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. However, in practice, at least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification in some contexts, particularly for migration assessments.

This skill level reflects the managerial nature of the role, which involves significant responsibility for planning, decision-making, and resource management. Goat Farmers must possess advanced knowledge of animal nutrition, genetics, pasture management, and business operations. The classification acknowledges that successful farm management requires both technical expertise in goat production and well-developed business management skills.

Industry context

Goat Farmers operate primarily within the agricultural industry, with relevant ANZSIC classifications including Other Livestock Farming (0199) for meat and fibre production, and Dairy Cattle Farming (0170) for dairy goat operations. Some may also be classified under Sheep, Beef Cattle and Grain Farming (014) where goats are part of mixed farming enterprises.

The Australian goat industry has grown significantly, with meat production becoming increasingly commercialised and export-focused. Dairy goat operations supply both fresh milk and processing for cheese and other products. Employment settings range from owner-operated family farms to larger corporate operations, with some farmers also contracting services to other enterprises. The classification system helps government agencies and industry bodies monitor workforce trends and skills requirements in this evolving agricultural sector.