Your Gateway to a Rewarding Career in Australia’s Primary Industries
The Certificate II in Rural Operations (AHC21216) provides you with hands-on experience and the essential skills needed for entry-level roles across Australia’s rural and agricultural industries. This nationally recognised qualification teaches you how to perform a variety of basic rural tasks, including property and land management, livestock handling, the use of tools and machinery, teamwork, and safe working practices.
Suitable for both school-based learners and those entering the workforce, this course helps you build confidence and competence, ensuring you’re job-ready and able to contribute safely and effectively to a rural enterprise.
Course Delivery
Blended
(includes online learning and face-to-face training)
Course Duration
3-6 months
Course Outcome
Entry Requirements
No formal prerequisites
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available
Locations
17+ training centres across Queensland and Western Australia
Course Fee
Fees vary depending on location (see table below)
Afterpay available
Funding Available
VETiS Funding Available
Career Start funding available (QLD) - $30 or $50 only if eligible
Certificate II in Rural Operations - Course Information
The Certificate II in Rural Operations (AHC21216) gives you the essential skills, knowledge, and confidence to begin a career in the rural and agricultural industries.
What You’ll Learn:
Operate and maintain basic rural machinery and equipment
Assist with livestock handling, feeding, and welfare practices
Support land, property, and pasture management activities
Follow workplace safety and environmental sustainability procedures
Maintain and repair fences, gates, and other rural infrastructure
Apply biosecurity and hygiene practices on rural properties
Work effectively within a rural team environment
Communicate and contribute to daily operational tasks on the property
Training is designed around real-world rural operations, giving you the confidence, practical experience, and teamwork skills needed to thrive in agricultural and rural workplaces.
Course delivery and assessment
The Certificate II in Rural Operations is a flexible, blended delivery course designed to fit around your work and lifestyle, giving you up to 12 months to complete your studies at your own pace. The theory component of the course is delivered online, and you will also need to attend face-to-face training sessions to learn hands-on, practical skills. Our trainers will demonstrate key techniques and provide personalised feedback and guidance, helping you build both confidence and competence.
Assessment is competency-based, meaning you’ll be evaluated on your ability to perform tasks and apply knowledge in real-world scenarios. This includes:
Practical demonstrations of machinery operation, livestock and crop management, and workplace safety procedures.
Observed tasks in simulated or workplace environments.
Written or online assessments to confirm understanding of key concepts
A blended approach ensures you don’t just learn the theory - you’ll be able to apply your skills safely and effectively in a variety of rural and agricultural roles.
What You’ll Study
The Certificate II in Rural Operations is a nationally-recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). On successful completion, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment for the following 15 accredited units of competency:
Core Units - Three (3)
AHCWHS201 Participate in Work Health and Safety Processes
AHCWRK204 Work Effectively in the Industry
AHCWRK209 Participate in Environmentally Sustainable Work Practices
Elective Units - Select Twelve (12)*
AHCBIO203 Inspect and Clean Machinery, Tools and Equipment to Preserve Biosecurity
AHCCHM201 Apply Chemicals Under Supervision
AHCCHM304 Transport and Store Chemicals
AHCCHM307 Prepare and Apply Chemicals to Control Pest, Weeds and Diseases
AHCDRG202 Maintain Drainage Systems
AHCINF203 Maintain Properties and Structures
AHCPMG301 Control Weeds
AHCMOM203 Operate Basic Machinery and Equipment
AHCMOM204 Undertake Operational Maintenance of Machinery
AHCMOM213 Operate and Maintain Chainsaws
FWPCOT2239 Trim and Cut Felled Trees
RIISAM203E Use Hand and Power Tools
RIIWHS202E Enter and Work in Confined Spaces
RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights
Elective units to be confirmed at time of enrolment.
*Elective units may change depending on delivery location and individual requirements
Career pathways
Graduates of this course can pursue entry-level roles or further study leading to careers such as:
Farmhand / Stationhand - assisting with daily farm operations, livestock care, and property maintenance
Livestock or Crop Assistant - supporting the management of animals or crops, including feeding, monitoring, and harvesting
Rural Operations Assistant - contributing to a variety of agricultural tasks and basic machinery operation
Irrigation Assistant - helping with installation, maintenance, and operation of irrigation systems
Farm Maintenance Worker - maintaining fences, farm infrastructure, and equipment
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements to enrol in this course; however, students should have:
basic computer skills and access to the internet
sufficient language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) skills to complete assessments, and;
A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI) - mandatory for all nationally recognised training. If you don't already have a USI, you can apply for one online at www.usi.gov.au or we can apply for one for you.
Support when you need it
Throughout the duration of your course, you can access experienced industry professionals and support staff to guide you through the program. Our trainers are dedicated to helping you succeed and will be available to answer your questions and provide feedback on your progress. They will provide you with the guidance and support you need to fully understand the course material, as well as offer suggestions for further learning opportunities.
Related Courses to Further Your Career
Funding is Available For this Course
This course is approved under Career Start, the Queensland Government’s training initiative replacing the Certificate III Guarantee (effective 1 July 2025). Career Start provides eligible Queenslanders with government-subsidised training to help them begin a Certificate III qualification, and potentially an apprenticeship or traineeship, selected from priority or emerging industries.Check your eligibility or contact us for more information.
Career Start Fees for eligible students are:
Concessional Student - $30.00
Non-Concessional Student - $50.00
VETiS Funding - this course is eligible for VETiS (Vocational Education and Training in Schools) funding, which provides eligible secondary school students with the opportunity to undertake nationally-recognised training at little or no cost. VETiS funding helps students gain practical skills and qualifications while completing their senior secondary studies, giving them a head start in rural and agricultural industries.
“This course provided a solid foundation for my career in rural operations. The combination of theory and practical exercises made the learning relevant and easy to apply.”
Course FAQs
The Certificate II in Rural Operations course fee varies across locations. Please contact us for more information.
The Certificate II in Rural Operations course is approved under Career Start, the Queensland Government’s training initiative replacing the Certificate III Guarantee (effective 1 July 2025). Career Start provides eligible Queenslanders with government-subsidised training to help them begin a Certificate III qualification, and potentially an apprenticeship or traineeship, selected from priority or emerging industries. You may also be eligible for VETiS or CSQ funding. Please view the funding information section further up this page for more information
The Certificate II in Rural Operations needs to be completed within 12-months of enrolment. You will be required to complete online learning modules and attend two days of face-to-face training each week.
There are no formal entry requirements. However, students will need:
Basic computer skills and internet access (for enrolment and communication)
Sufficient language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) skills to complete assessments
A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI). If you don’t have one, you can apply atusi.gov.au or we can assist.
Your SOA will be issued within 3-5 business days of successfully completing the course and receiving payment.
Our friendly support team is here to help. Contact us for course advice, enrolment support, or guidance during your training.
1300 248 457 or email info@civilsafety.edu.au
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