anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 121322Skill level 1Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Sheep Farmer

A Sheep Farmer manages flocks of sheep for wool, meat (lamb and mutton), or breeding purposes across Australia's extensive grazing lands. Australia is a global leader in fine wool and lamb production.

Indicative salary range
$55,000 - $95,000 (2025 indicative)

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

Labour market demand

Consistent demand in the Merino wool belt of WA, SA, NSW, and Victoria; station hand and farm manager roles are frequently advertised.

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 lambing, weaning, and flock structure programs
  • Organise and oversee shearing and crutching operations
  • Implement pasture, water, and supplementary feeding management
  • Monitor and treat diseases including footrot, flystrike, and worms

Skills required

  • Sheep husbandry and flock management
  • Wool clip preparation and classing
  • Pasture management and carrying capacity estimation
  • Animal health and preventive treatment programs

Typical qualifications pathway

Certificate III in Agriculture is typical. VETASSESS assesses qualifications for migration.

Visa & occupation list information

Listed on the ROL only, this occupation is eligible for subclass 491. Regional state nomination may be available in states with significant sheep industries 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.

Scan with your phone to open an AI chat about this occupation — no agent, no affiliation, just info you can trust.

Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: