Shearers and Wool Classers play a crucial role in the Australian agricultural industry by removing and classifying wool and hair from sheep, goats, alpacas, and other animals. These skilled professionals contribute to the production of high-quality wool, which is a valuable commodity both domestically and internationally.

Indicative Skill Level:

The occupation of Shearer requires a level of skill that is commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below:

In Australia:

• AQF Certificate III, including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

• NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

The occupation of Wool Classer also demands a level of skill that aligns with the qualifications and experience specified below:

In Australia:

• AQF Certificate III, including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

• NZQF Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

It is important to note that in certain cases, three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. Additionally, some positions may require additional on-the-job training and experience in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

• Selecting and preparing shearing equipment
• Catching and positioning animals for shearing
• Shearing and removing wool and hair from animals
• Identifying contaminated fiber and injured, infected, and diseased animals
• Treating skin cuts
• Returning shorn animals to let-out pens for counting and checking
• Inspecting fleece to determine its type based on physical characteristics such as staple length, strength, fiber diameter, and color
• Classing wool into lines to meet processors' requirements and optimize growers' returns
• Managing wool handling teams
• Instructing wool handlers and supervising the picking up, skirting, rolling, and pressing of fleeces
• May service, maintain, and repair shearing equipment
• May shear stud animals with hand shears or special combs

Occupations:

• 363311 Shearer
• 363312 Wool Classer

363311 Shearer

A Shearer is responsible for removing wool and hair from sheep, goats, alpacas, and other animals. They possess a Skill Level of 3.

363312 Wool Classer

A Wool Classer specializes in classifying wool according to industry standards or market requirements. They have the following Skill Levels:

• 3 in Australia
• 2 in New Zealand

The occupation of Shearer and Wool Classer presents exciting opportunities for individuals interested in working in the agricultural sector. They play a vital role in ensuring the production of high-quality wool, contributing to the success of the Australian wool industry.