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

Cattle and Sheep Farm Workers perform essential routine tasks on Australian livestock properties, primarily focusing on the daily care and management of cattle and sheep herds. These workers are fundamental to the operation of pastoral stations and mixed farming enterprises across Australia's agricultural regions. Their work involves direct animal handling, feeding programs, and maintaining farm infrastructure to support livestock production systems.

This occupation is classified within the Labourers major group, reflecting its hands-on, practical nature in the agricultural sector. Workers in this role typically operate under supervision while developing practical skills in animal husbandry and farm operations. The classification is used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics for employment data collection and by various Australian government agencies for workforce planning and analysis.

Key tasks in practice

On Australian cattle and sheep properties, workers in this occupation typically perform a range of practical tasks:

  • Monitoring livestock health through regular inspections and reporting any concerns to supervisors
  • Implementing feeding programs and ensuring adequate water supply for herds
  • Preparing and maintaining pastures for grazing through basic cultivation practices
  • Moving livestock between paddocks and to handling facilities for procedures like shearing or veterinary treatment
  • Maintaining fencing, yards, and animal housing to ensure secure containment
  • Operating and performing basic maintenance on farm vehicles, machinery, and water systems

Skill level explanation

This occupation is classified at Skill Level 4 in the OSCA framework, which indicates that most roles require knowledge and skills equivalent to:

  • AQF Certificate I or II, or
  • Compulsory secondary education, or
  • On-the-job training and experience typically lasting less than one year

In practical terms, this means workers typically learn their skills through direct experience on the farm rather than through formal qualifications. The role requires practical ability, physical fitness, and the capacity to follow instructions rather than advanced technical knowledge or management responsibilities.

Industry context

Cattle and Sheep Farm Workers are primarily employed in the Australian livestock production sector, particularly within these ANZSIC industries:

  • Beef Cattle Farming (0141) - properties focused on beef production
  • Sheep Farming (0142) - wool and meat sheep enterprises
  • Sheep-Beef Cattle Farming (0144) - mixed livestock operations
  • Agricultural Support Services (6620) - contract mustering and livestock handling services

Employment is concentrated in traditional grazing regions across Australia, including the Murray-Darling Basin, western Queensland, the pastoral regions of Western Australia, and the tablelands of New South Wales. These workers form part of the essential labour force supporting Australia's significant livestock export industry.