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Track Rider

ANZSCO 361116

A Track Rider exercises horses for racing or training, improves their fitness, addresses behavioural issues, and works in a team, often with irregular hours.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NSW
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a track rider

Get qualified to work as a track rider with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Track Rider generally earns $1,440 per week ($74,880 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.

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This industry has experienced a drop in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 2,900 people working as a Track Rider in Australia, compared to 3,100 five years ago. Track Riders may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’re interested in a career as a Track Rider, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider). You’ll develop high level riding skills to exercise thoroughbred racehorses. This course covers a range of topics including racing industry ethics, personal health and fitness for working with horses, attending to horses at race meetings and handling horses in stables.

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Further reading

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Track Rider careers

A Track Rider trains and exercises horses. You’ll perform a range of track work activities to get horses ready for racing or get them used to being ridden for a particular purpose. Track Riders may also help horses recover from injury or develop their fitness over distance. You might also address problem equine behaviours.

Track Riders should be highly skilled and able to adapt their abilities to suit a range of circumstances. You should be passionate about horses and be able to work with challenging horse behaviours. Track Riders must be able to follow instructions and work well in a team. You may have to work irregular hours when required.