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Jackaroo

Also known as Jillaroo.

Jackaroos (male workers) and jillaroos (female workers) undertake a range of activities on cattle and sheep stations.

Jackaroos and jillaroos spend most of their time working outdoors.

They may live in shared accommodation on the property or occasionally in the house of the owner or manager.

TASKS

Jackaroos and jillaroos may perform the following tasks:

care for livestock and treat minor injuries and illness
muster on horseback or motorbike
maintain station equipment and inspect, repair or replace fences, gates and yards
use and maintain vehicles and heavy machinery
undertake farming work such as cultivation and haymaking
assist with light household duties
undertake clerical and administrative tasks

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy working outdoors
able to deal confidently with people
good communication and organisation skills
able to make accurate observations
mechanical aptitude
able to cope with the physical demands of the job, undertaking manual and often heavy work
able to endure isolation and limited social contact
interested in animals and their welfare
able to handle animals with confidence and patience

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a jackaroo or jillaroo without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in agriculture or rural operations. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become a jackaroo or jillaroo through a traineeship in Agriculture or Rural Operations.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Agriculture, Horticulture and Conservation and Land Management Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Australia has some of the world's largest cattle and sheep stations. Demand for the occupation varies seasonally and is influenced by international export markets.

Pastoral companies find little difficulty in attracting prospective jackaroos and jillaroos. However, turnover is fairly high as applicants often do not have a clear picture of the conditions under which they may be expected to work, or of the type of work they will be required to do.