anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 121316Skill level 1Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Horse Breeder

A Horse Breeder manages thoroughbred, standardbred, or stock horse breeding programs for racing, equestrian sport, or working purposes. Australia has a significant equine industry centred in Queensland, NSW, and Victoria.

Indicative salary range
$50,000 - $90,000 (2025 indicative)

Full-time AUD, 2025 indicative. Wide bands reflect variation by employer, experience, and location.

Labour market demand

Niche demand concentrated in established horse-breeding regions; thoroughbred industry in Hunter Valley and Scone (NSW) is most prominent.

Occupation list membership

Which Department of Home Affairs skilled lists this occupation currently appears on.

  • ROLRegional Occupation List

    Occupations eligible for regional visas such as Subclass 491 and 494.

Assessing authority

The body that assesses skills for migration purposes for this occupation.

Visa pathways

Australian visa subclasses for which this occupation is currently eligible.

State nominations

States and territories that currently nominate this occupation for skilled migration.

CodeState / TerritoryDetails
WAWestern AustraliaView nomination →
SASouth AustraliaView nomination →

Key duties

  • Manage mare and stallion reproduction and breeding programs
  • Care for foals, yearlings, and broodstock
  • Maintain breeding records and pedigree documentation
  • Prepare horses for sale at auction or private sales

Skills required

  • Equine breeding and reproductive management
  • Foaling and neonatal foal care
  • Pedigree analysis and bloodstock knowledge
  • Pasture and stable management for horses

Typical qualifications pathway

Certificate III in Horse Breeding or an equine science degree is typical. VETASSESS assesses qualifications for migration.

Visa & occupation list information

Listed on the ROL only, eligible for subclass 491. Suitable for migrants with specialist equine breeding experience willing to work regionally For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.

anzsco.com.au is information-only. For personalised advice on your situation, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.

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Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: