Role overview
ANZSCO 121399 Livestock Farmers nec covers specialised livestock production managers who farm animal species not specifically classified elsewhere in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations. This residual category captures farmers working with less common livestock or employing unconventional husbandry methods that don't align with other defined livestock farming occupations. These professionals typically manage breeding, feeding, health, and production systems for their specific livestock operations.
In the Australian context, this classification serves primarily as a statistical and administrative category for migration, workforce data, and industry analysis. It represents experienced managers who combine practical farming knowledge with business management skills to operate viable livestock enterprises. The nec designation indicates this is a legacy classification used when more specific coding isn't available or appropriate.
Key tasks in practice
While no specific task list is provided for this nec classification, based on the unit group and typical livestock farming operations, these professionals would likely:
- Plan and manage breeding programs for specialised livestock species
- Develop and implement feeding and nutrition regimes tailored to specific animal requirements
- Monitor animal health and implement disease prevention strategies
- Manage pasture, fodder production, and grazing systems appropriate to their livestock
- Oversee livestock handling facilities and specific processing requirements
- Develop and implement business plans, budgets, and marketing strategies
- Manage staff, contractors, and operational workflows
- Maintain records for breeding, production, and financial management
- Ensure compliance with animal welfare standards and environmental regulations
Skill level explanation
As a Skill Level 1 occupation, Livestock Farmers nec requires a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. Alternatively, at least five years of relevant experience may substitute for formal qualifications. In some cases, both experience and formal qualifications may be required.
For this occupation, relevant experience typically involves demonstrated expertise in managing livestock operations, animal husbandry, business management, and technical knowledge specific to the type of livestock being farmed. The Australian context often values practical experience highly in agricultural occupations, with many successful farmers building their skills through hands-on work and industry-specific training rather than formal university education.
Industry context
Livestock Farmers nec operate within various Australian industries as classified by ANZSIC, including livestock farming (code 3319), other agriculture (0529), other primary industries (0199), and agricultural services (3800). These classifications suggest these farmers work across diverse agricultural contexts, from primary production to specialized service provision.
The occupation may include farmers working with alternative livestock species such as deer, alpacas, goats, ostriches, or other niche animal production systems. Some may operate contract growing operations, specialty breeding enterprises, or integrated farming systems that combine multiple livestock species in ways that don't fit standard classifications. The crosswalk to ISCO codes indicates international alignment with animal production managers and specialized producers not elsewhere classified.