anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 452413Skill level 3Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Jockey

A Jockey rides thoroughbred or harness horses in racing events conducted at licensed racetracks. In Australia, horseracing is a significant industry regulated by Racing Australia and state and territory racing authorities; jockeys are licensed professionals who ride for racing stables.

Indicative salary range
$40,000 - $150,000+ (2025 indicative, variable by win performance)

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

Labour market demand

Niche and competitive; racing is a well-established industry in Australia but jockey positions are limited and highly competitive.

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
SASouth AustraliaView nomination →

Key duties

  • Ride horses in competitive racing events at licensed race meetings
  • Work with trainers on pace, tactics, and horse behaviour during training trackwork
  • Maintain physical condition and weight management to meet racing weight requirements
  • Adhere to the Rules of Racing administered by state racing authorities

Skills required

  • Advanced horsemanship and race riding technique
  • Physical fitness and body weight management
  • Knowledge of racing rules, tactics, and track conditions
  • Communication with trainers on horse form and behaviour

Typical qualifications pathway

A jockey apprenticeship through a licensed trainer, followed by an apprentice jockey licence from the relevant state racing authority, is the standard pathway. TRA is the assessing authority for migration purposes.

Visa & occupation list information

This occupation appears on the ROL. Eligible Australian skilled visa pathways include subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional). State nominations are available from nominating states and territories. For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.

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Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: