If you’re looking for a career in the Australian outback, Station Hand Jobs are one of the most common entry points into the cattle industry. Working as a station hand means being part of a team that keeps vast cattle stations running, and it’s a lifestyle that combines hard work, personal growth, and unforgettable outback experiences.
The responsibilities of a station hand vary depending on the property, location, and season. Typical duties include:
Mustering cattle by horse, motorbike, buggy or helicopter
Maintaining fences, yards, and water infrastructure
Checking and feeding livestock
Operating and repairing vehicles, machinery, and equipment
Assisting with animal health tasks such as branding, weaning, and pregnancy testing
This is a role that requires flexibility — no two days are ever the same.
While many employers provide on-the-job training, developing certain skills will make you more employable:
Livestock handling and animal welfare knowledge
Horsemanship or motorbike riding
Basic mechanical and maintenance abilities
Teamwork and communication
Physical fitness and resilience
A willingness to learn, work as a team and adapt to remote living (i.e. get along with everyone - no one likes a whiner... or a dickhead).
Even if you don’t have prior experience, showing enthusiasm and reliability can go a long way.
Wondering about station hand pay in Australia? Wages vary depending on your experience and the size of the station.
Entry-level pay often starts from $55,000–$65,000 per year, aligned with the Pastoral Award.
Food and accommodation are usually included, reducing living expenses significantly.
Experienced station hands and head stockmen can earn higher salaries, often with additional benefits.
This makes the role attractive not just for the adventure, but also for financial stability.
See also our blog:
Station Hand Salary Range: How Much Do You Get Paid on a Cattle Station?
If you’re interested in how to get a station hand job, the good news is that opportunities are available across Australia, particularly in Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia.
Tips for applying:
Highlight practical skills (livestock, machinery, horses, or bikes).
Emphasise reliability, adaptability, and willingness to live remotely.
Apply via trusted agricultural job boards like RFTTEJOBS.com or directly to cattle stations.
Show a genuine interest in the cattle industry and outback life.
Please note: To apply for jobs listed on RFTTEJOBS.com, you must be an Australian permanent resident or hold a valid visa that allows you to live and work in Australia.
The majority of employers advertising on our platform can only accept applicants who already have the legal right to work in Australia.
If you do not currently hold an appropriate visa, you can find detailed information and apply through the official Australian Government website:
👉 immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Beyond the work itself, life on a cattle station is an adventure. You’ll gain unique skills, make lifelong friendships, and experience the outback in a way few others ever do. For those with resilience, teamwork, and a strong work ethic, Station Hand Jobs are the perfect entry point into the northern pastoral industry — offering both career opportunities and a lifestyle like no other.
