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ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care

2026

Sector

Vocational Education and Training

Industry Group

PRIMARY INDUSTRY

Occupation Type

Animal Attendants and Trainers NEC

General Description

Availability: Applications are open for 2026.
Online Application: This course is not available for online application. Please contact the team on the details below for further information on how to apply.
Apprenticeships/Traineeships: This course can be undertaken as a traineeship. Visit TAFE Apprenticeships and Traineeships for more information.

This qualification describes the skills and knowledge for entry level and support roles in the animal care and management industry, where workers provide care for animals in workplaces such as animal shelters, boarding/day care facilities, sanctuaries and veterinary clinics. The work activities are routine, performed under supervision and within clearly defined guidelines.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.

Delivery Details
Location	Casuarina Katherine
Duration	6 to 12 months full time 12 to 18 months part time *Duration may vary depending on how long a student takes to reach the required competency level
Study Mode	Workplace assessment *Information relating to study modes can be found in the 2026 TAFE Student Guide
Start Date	A specific commencement date will be determined in consultation with the delivery team. *A course timetable/study plan will be provided on application for the course.
Attendance	Attendance is by arrangement with the delivery team

Career Opportunities

Possible occupations relevant to this qualification include:

Dog groomer assistant
Animal care or pet shop attendant
Animal shelter attendant
Kennel hand or cattery attendant
Veterinary assistant

Course Information Flyer(s)

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care - 2026

Accreditation
This is a current, nationally accredited qualification from the ACM Animal Care and Management Training Package.

Locations and Study Mode
Delivery at all locations is subject to sufficient demand and resources.

Locations: Casuarina, Katherine

Study Mode:Workplace assessment

Subject to demand other locations and modes may become available throughout the year.

Entry Requirements Domestic

A Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Literacy (LLND) evaluation helps identify any areas where you may need additional support to help you achieve your goals.

To gain entry into ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care candidates require:

Candidates must organise prior to commencement, work placement in an animal care facility. This can include volunteer or paid work.
Complete placement in an animal care facility for 20 days over their studies**

** If you do not meet this requirement, contact the CDU delivery team/lecturer to discuss your options.

To be prepared for this course, it is recommended that you have:

Basic knowledge and a passion for animals and their welfare
The ability to lift and restrain animals
The ability to follow basic written instructions and complete tasks safely with supervision
Access to the internet and a computer or personal device
Appropriate clothing, which may include covered non-slip shoes, long sleeve shirts and pants

Duration
Estimated completion time: 1 year/s

This program is delivered over a period of 6 to 18 months. The length of time to complete this qualification will depend on the location, study mode and/or units selected and will vary depending upon how long a student takes to reach the required competency level.

Student Visa holders must study internally full time

Contact Details

To find out more about the course, where and when it is offered, how to enrol or any other information please contact:

Agriculture and Rural Operations
Location: Katherine Rural Campus
Phone: 08 8973 8311
Email: vet.agriculture@cdu.edu.au