A station hand’s day-to-day operations typically involve a range of practical tasks on large agricultural properties. These include mustering, fencing, machinery maintenance, and general property upkeep. Station hands work directly with animals, such as cattle and sheep, often outdoors in varying weather conditions, to ensure their care and management.
The role also requires a commitment to the values of sustainable agriculture. Conservation and environmental stewardship are increasingly important, with station hands expected to follow practices that preserve natural resources and support the long-term health of the land.
According to recent job ads, the average salary for a station hand in Australia ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 per year. This salary data is based on employees across various stations and may vary depending on experience, location, and the size of the property.
To succeed as a station hand, a person should demonstrate initiative, responsibility, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Physical fitness, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are also essential qualities for this role.
A station hand plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of Australia’s cattle and sheep stations, supporting the agricultural industry with a wide range of essential tasks. The average salary for a station hand in Australia is approximately $65,000 per year, based on recent salary data and job ads on Seek. However, the full-time salary ranges can vary depending on the employer, location, and the level of experience you bring to the role.
Salary benefits for station hands often extend beyond just base pay. Many employers offer other salary benefits such as accommodation and meals, which can significantly enhance the overall value of the salary package. Superannuation is also commonly included, and the type of accommodation or meals provided may differ from station to station.
To succeed as a station hand, a strong passion for agriculture and livestock is essential, along with a willingness to work independently and demonstrate self-discipline. The ability to work safely and efficiently with cattle, sheep, and sometimes goats is highly valued. Employers typically look for candidates with practical knowledge of farm equipment, livestock handling, and general property maintenance. While formal qualifications are not always required, holding a Certificate III in Agriculture or a related field can open up more opportunities and help you progress to senior station hand roles.
The Fair Work Ombudsman ensures that station hand salaries and benefits are fair and transparent, providing guidelines that employers must follow. Senior station hands, who take on greater responsibility and leadership, can expect higher salaries, with some roles offering between $80,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on experience and duties.
Recent market trends show a steady demand for station hands across Australia, with numerous jobs listed in the last three months in regions such as Queensland and New South Wales. These job ads provide valuable insights into current salary ranges, with disclosed salaries typically falling between $55,000 and $75,000 per year for full-time positions. The overall package can vary depending on the type of station, location, and the specific requirements of the role.
For those with a genuine interest in agriculture and a desire to grow their skills, working as a station hand offers a unique opportunity to build a rewarding career. With competitive salaries, valuable benefits, and the chance to work in some of Australia’s most iconic rural locations, station hand roles remain a popular choice for those seeking meaningful work in the agricultural sector.
If you're working on a cattle station - or hiring for one - and want to know what pay rate applies, it’s essential to refer to the Pastoral Award set by the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO).
The Pastoral Award 2020 outlines duties, classifications, and minimum pay rates for workers on cattle and livestock stations. Clause 27 of the award defines the indicative duties for each classification level—from entry-level station hands to senior hands and feedlot operators.
➡️ Check the classifications here:
🔗 Pastoral Award - Duties & Classifications
The national minimum wage and most award wages increased as of 1 July 2025. Make sure you're up to date - whether you're an employee or employer.
✔️ Check your current pay using the Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT):
🔗 PACT Calculator
Each classification level under the Pastoral Award includes a set of duties and a corresponding pay rate. Your level is determined by your skills, responsibility, and experience. Completing relevant training or certification can help you progress to higher pay levels. Following proper procedures ensures tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Effective time management and understanding the duration of tasks are also important at different pay levels to maintain productivity.
Examples:
Station Hand (less than 12 months experience)
Station Cook or Cook’s Offsider
Cattle Farm Worker Grade A
Feedlot Employee (less than 3 months)
Duties may include:
Routine mustering and fence repairs
Kitchen or cooking assistance
Aerial stock sighting
Repetitive packing or unpacking
Examples:
Cattle Farm Worker Grade B
Feedlot Employee (3+ months)
Duties may include:
Sorting, branding, and mustering stock
Equipment maintenance
Driving tractors or forklifts
Assisting with cattle health procedures
Basic fence repair and boundary riding
Operating grain or feed systems
Examples:
Station Hand with 12+ months of experience
Not yet a Senior Station Hand (Level 5)
Duties expand beyond Level 2, requiring more independence and knowledge. The ability to work independently at this level is a sign of self-discipline and reliability.
Examples:
Feedlot Employee Level 2 (2+ years' experience)
Duties may include:
Euthanising livestock
Performing post-mortem procedures
Selecting livestock for market
Advanced chemical handling and machinery operation
QA program awareness and OH&S procedures
Examples:
Senior Station Hand (2+ years’ experience)
Duties may include:
Animal husbandry and stock handling
Irrigation work
Farm machinery operation
Chemical usage and management
Leading teams without supervision
Examples:
Feedlot Employee Level 3
Has Certificate III + 2+ years in industry
Duties may include:
High-level feedlot and cattle management
Advanced machinery operation
QA program implementation
OH&S leadership
Your age and experience
Whether accommodation or meals (keep) are provided
Location of the job
Classification under the Pastoral Award
✔️ Use the PACT tool to calculate exact rates:
🔗 https://calculate.fairwork.gov.au/FindYourAward
Australian Government Fair Work Ombudsman
🔗 https://www.fairwork.gov.au
🔗 Pay Calculator - PACT
