Role overview
Senior Dairy Cattle Farm Workers perform skilled supervisory roles within Australian dairy farming operations. These experienced workers coordinate daily activities on dairy farms, overseeing both livestock management and farm infrastructure. Their responsibilities span breeding programs, cattle health, milking operations, and staff supervision.
In the Australian context, these workers typically operate in commercial dairy enterprises where they implement modern farming practices. They work with dairy herds, manage feeding regimens, and maintain milking systems while ensuring animal welfare standards are met. The role requires practical experience in dairy operations combined with supervisory capabilities.
Key tasks in practice
Senior Dairy Cattle Farm Workers undertake diverse responsibilities that blend hands-on work with supervisory duties:
- Managing dairy cattle breeding programs and overseeing calf rearing operations
- Developing and implementing feeding plans while monitoring cattle nutrition and health
- Maintaining pastures and fodder crops, identifying plant health issues affecting cattle feed
- Supervising animal health and welfare programs including disease prevention
- Implementing biosecurity measures to protect herd health
- Overseeing daily operations including herding, milking, and cattle movement
- Maintaining farm infrastructure such as milking systems, housing, and water supplies
- Training and supervising other farm workers while managing work routines
Skill level explanation
OSCA assigns Skill Level 3 to Senior Dairy Cattle Farm Workers, indicating this occupation requires substantial skill and experience. In practical terms, this typically means:
Workers at this level generally require an AQF Certificate III or IV qualification in agriculture or several years of relevant experience. The role involves supervisory responsibilities, technical knowledge of dairy operations, and the ability to make decisions affecting livestock management. Skill Level 3 positions typically involve training others and coordinating work activities.
The classification distinguishes this senior role from more junior farm hands (Skill Level 4 or 5) and specialist managerial positions (Skill Level 2).
Industry context
Senior Dairy Cattle Farm Workers are primarily employed in the Australian dairy cattle farming industry (ANZSIC 0160). They work across various dairy operations including:
Large commercial dairy farms, particularly in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, and South Australia where the dairy industry is concentrated. These workers may also find employment in agricultural service provision (ANZSIC 6620) or on mixed farming enterprises that include dairy operations.
The OSCA classification is used in Australia for statistical purposes, workforce planning, and by some employers when defining role requirements. It helps standardise occupation descriptions across the agricultural sector.