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ACM20121 Current

Certificate II in Animal Care

Training Package: ACM — Animal Care and Management Training Package

Usage: Current

Overview

The Certificate II in Animal Care (ACM20121) provides foundational training for anyone looking to start a career working with animals. You'll learn essential skills such as animal handling, feeding, grooming, basic health monitoring, and first aid, all focused on ensuring animal welfare and safety. This qualification is perfect for school leavers, career changers, or animal enthusiasts with no prior experience. Upon completion, you'll be prepared for entry-level roles like animal attendant, kennel hand, pet shop assistant, or animal shelter worker in settings such as veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, and wildlife parks. It's a hands-on course that equips you to contribute to the daily care and well-being of animals, opening doors to further study and specialisation in the animal care industry.

Industry Context

The animal care industry in Australia includes veterinary services, pet retail, animal shelters, boarding kennels, and wildlife conservation. With the ACM20121 qualification, you can enter roles such as animal attendant, kennel hand, or pet shop assistant, providing daily care and support for animals. This certificate serves as a stepping stone to advanced pathways like Certificate III in Animal Care Services, leading to specialised positions such as veterinary nurse or animal trainer, within a sector dedicated to animal welfare and community support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Certificate II in Animal Care cover?

It covers foundational skills in animal handling, feeding, grooming, health monitoring, basic first aid, and animal welfare practices, preparing you for entry-level positions in animal care.

What are the entry requirements for this qualification?

There are no formal entry requirements, but a passion for animals, along with basic literacy and numeracy skills, is recommended for success in the course.

What career outcomes can I expect after completing this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as animal attendant, kennel hand, pet shop assistant, or animal shelter worker in veterinary clinics, boarding kennels, pet stores, and animal welfare organisations.

What delivery modes are available for this qualification?

This qualification is typically delivered through classroom-based theory, practical workshops, and work placements, with options for full-time, part-time, or blended learning via registered training organisations.

How long does it take to complete?

The duration varies but generally takes 6 to 12 months of full-time study, depending on the training provider, study mode, and individual pace.

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Last updated from training.gov.au: 03 April 2026