How do I become a sheep shearer
Get qualified to work as a sheep shearer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Sheep Shearer.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Sheep Shearer generally earns $1,153 per week ($59,956 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.
Courses.com.au Team
The number of people employed as a Sheep Shearer has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 6,500 people in this role in Australia compared to 5,800 five years ago. Sheep Shearers will usually find work in rural and regional areas of Australia.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal – 2019 Occupation Projections
Courses.com.au Team
If you’re thinking of becoming a Sheep Shearer, a Certificate II in Shearing is an ideal qualification for you. You’ll learn a range of shearing skills and techniques and cover topics including preparing and sharpening grind combs and cutters and crutching and shearing different breeds of sheep. You could further your studies with a Certificate III in Shearing or a Certificate IV in Shearing Contracting.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
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Sheep Shearer careers
A Sheep Shearer removes wool from sheep. You might use machine shears or hand held blades and you may be responsible for maintaining your shearing equipment. Sheep Shearers may have to collect sheep and get them ready for shearing and bring them back to counting pens afterwards. You’ll check animals for infections and keep an eye out for any problems with their wool.
Being a Sheep Shearer is a very physically demanding role. You’ll work long hours and need to be ready for heavy lifting and manual labour. Sheep Shearers need to be comfortable handling animals and should be skilled in using a range of shearing equipment. You’ll be working as part of a team and you must be capable of following directions.
