Certificate II in Agriculture

Launch Your Career in Australia’s Agriculture Industry

Introduction

The Certificate II in Agriculture (AHC20122) is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to build a hands-on career in the farming and agriculture industries. This nationally-recognised course teaches you practical skills for real farm work - from operating machinery and handling livestock, to maintaining property and working safely outdoors.

Whether you’re beginning your career, gaining experience for further study, or looking to enhance your existing farm skills, this qualification provides a strong foundation for success in one of Australia’s most essential industries.

Course Information

Course Delivery: Blended (includes online learning and face-to-face training)
Duration: 3-6 months
Outcome: Nationally recognised Statement of Attainment
Entry Requirements:

• No formal prerequisites
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available

Course Fee: Price varies across locations
Funding:

• VETiS Funding Available
• Career Start funding available (QLD) - $30 or $50 only if eligible

Certificate II in Agriculture - Course Overview

The Certificate II in Agriculture (AHC20122) provides you with the core knowledge and practical experience to work confidently and safely in farming and agricultural environments. You’ll learn how to:

• Operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment

• Assist with livestock handling, feeding, and welfare

• Support crop and pasture production activities

• Follow safe work and environmental sustainability practices

• Maintain and repair fences, pens, and farm infrastructure

• Apply biosecurity and hygiene procedures

• Work effectively as part of a rural team

• Communicate and contribute to daily farm operations

• Training is built around real-world farming practices, ensuring you graduate with the confidence, practical know-how, and teamwork skills needed to thrive in any agricultural setting.

Delivery & Assessment

The Certificate II in Agriculture 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 handling, crop and pasture 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 Agriculture is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). On successful completion, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment for the following 16 accredited units of competency:

Core Units - Four (4):

• AHCWHS202 Participate in workplace health and safety processes
• AHCWRK211 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practice
• AHCWRK212 Work effectively in industry
• AHCWRK213 Participate in workplace communications

Elective Units - Select Twelve (12)*:

• AHCDRG202 Maintain drainage systems
• AHCINF206 Install, maintain and repair farm fencing
• AHCIRG219 Assist with low-volume irrigation operations
• AHCLSK204 Carry out regular livestock observation
• AHCLSK205 Handle livestock using basic techniques
• AHCLSK305 Maintain livestock water supplies
• AHCLSK308 Identify and draft livestock
• AHCLSK311 Implement feeding plans for livestock
• AHCMOM201 Operate two-wheel motorbikes
• AHCMOM202 Operate tractors
• AHCMOM203 Operate basic machinery and equipment
• AHCMOM204 Undertake operational maintenance of machinery
• AHCMOM208 Conduct excavator operations
• AHCMOM216 Operate side-by-side utility vehicles
• AHCMOM217 Operate quad bikes
• AHCMOM301 Coordinate machinery and equipment maintenance and repair
• AHCMOM302 Perform machinery maintenance
• AHCMOM304 Operate machinery and equipment
• AHCMOM305 Operate specialised machinery and equipment
• AHCBEK203 Open and reassemble a beehive
• AHCBEK205 Prepare and use a bee smoker
• AHCBEK206 Assemble and maintain beekeeping components
• AHCPHT215 Plant horticultural crops
• AHCPMG301 Control weeds
• AHCPMG308 Implement pest management strategies
• AHCWHS302 Contribute to workplace health and safety processes
• AHCWRK320 Apply environmentally sustainable work practices
• HLTAID011 Provide First Aid
• MEM18001 Use hand tools
• MEM18002 Use power tools/hand held operations
• RIIMPO317F Conduct roller operations
• RIIMPO318F Conduct civil construction skid steer loader operations
• RIIWHS202E Enter and Work in Confined Spaces
• RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights
• TLID0020 Shift materials safely using manual handling methods

Elective units to be confirmed at time of enrolment.
*Elective units may change depending on delivery location and individual requirements
 

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.

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.
 

Career Opportunities

Related Courses to Further Your Career

Career Pathways

Is funding available for the Certificate II in Agriculture (AHC20122) course?

The Certificate II in Agriculture 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 funding. Please view the funding information section further up this page for more information.

How long does it take to complete the Certificate II in Agriculture (AHC20122) course?

The Certificate II in Agriculture course takes approximately 3-6 months to complete. You will be required to complete online learning modules and attend face-to-face training for the practical assessments.

Are there any entry requirements for the Certificate II in Agriculture (AHC20122) course?

There are no formal entry requirements for this course. However is expected that you have basic computer skills, LLN competency, and a valid USI are required (if you don't have one you can apply at usi.gov.au or we can assist).

When will I receive my Statement of Attainment (SOA)?

Your SOA will be issued within 3-5 business days of successfully completing the course and receiving payment.