Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

ANZSCO 842214 classifies workers who perform routine physical tasks on farms specialising in grain, oilseed, pulse and pasture production in Australia. These workers support the cultivation, maintenance and harvesting of broadacre crops such as wheat, barley, canola, lupins, lentils and various pasture species. They typically work under direct supervision, following established procedures and using hand tools, basic machinery and equipment. The occupation represents an entry-level role in Australian agriculture, providing essential labour during critical periods like planting and harvest. This classification is primarily used for statistical purposes and may be referenced in migration contexts, though it's important to note it represents a legacy classification that may have limited direct application in current visa programs.

Key tasks in practice

Workers in this occupation typically perform a range of manual tasks throughout the crop production cycle:

  • Preparing soil and assisting with planting operations using basic machinery
  • Operating and maintaining irrigation systems for crops and pastures
  • Applying fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides under supervision
  • Monitoring crop growth and reporting signs of pests, diseases or nutrient deficiencies
  • Assisting with harvesting operations including operating machinery and handling produce
  • Maintaining fences, gates and farm infrastructure
  • Handling and moving livestock where integrated farming systems are used
  • Following workplace health and safety procedures for agricultural operations

Skill level explanation

This occupation is classified at ANZSCO Skill Level 4, which indicates the required skill level is commensurate with an AQF Certificate I or compulsory secondary education. In practical terms, this means:

  • Most workers receive short-term on-the-job training rather than requiring formal qualifications
  • The role focuses on following instructions and performing routine manual tasks
  • Basic literacy and numeracy skills are typically sufficient for most duties
  • Workers operate under direct supervision with limited autonomy
  • Some employers may require certificates for specific tasks like chemical application

Skill Level 4 occupations generally have an indicative skill level equivalent to less than one year of relevant experience or on-the-job training.

Industry context

This occupation is primarily found in several ANZSIC industry classifications relevant to Australian agriculture:

  • ANZSIC 0149 - Other Crop Growing (n.e.c.) covering various grain, oilseed and pulse production
  • ANZSIC 0529 - Other Agriculture and Fishing Support Services (n.e.c.)
  • ANZSIC 6620 - Pulses and Grains Wholesaling
  • ANZSIC 3319 - Other Construction Material Manufacturing (n.e.c.) for some processing contexts

Employment typically occurs on large-scale commercial farms across Australia's grain growing regions, including the wheat belts of Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. Workers may be employed on a seasonal basis during peak periods like planting and harvest, or in more permanent roles on larger operations. The occupation represents an important entry point to the agricultural workforce, though employment patterns have shifted toward more mechanised operations in recent decades.