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Exhibited Animals in Australia: Career Opportunities Explored

For many animal enthusiasts, the idea of working closely with animals and wildlife is an exciting prospect. However, the term “exhibited animals” may be unfamiliar to those just beginning to explore career options in this field. This post aims to shed light on what exhibited animals are, why this term is important, and the various career paths available in the rewarding world of animals.

Defining Exhibited Animals

Exhibited animals refer to those kept for public display, public education, or conservation purposes in regulated environments. Generally speaking, these include animals housed in:

  • Zoos
  • Wildlife conservation parks
  • Aquariums
  • Mobile animal exhibits
  • Petting farms

The term ‘exhibited animals’ encompasses a wide range of species and settings, from small amphibians in specialised enclosures to large mammals in open-range habitats.

Contents

The Significance of the Term "Exhibited Animals"

In Australia, the care and management of exhibited animals are governed by specific regulations. This term distinguishes this specialised field from pet care or livestock management, highlighting the unique requirements and responsibilities involved in caring for animals in public display settings.

Exhibited Animals - working with Zoo animals

Career Opportunities in Exhibited Animal Care

The field of exhibited animal care offers diverse career paths for those passionate about wildlife and conservation. Some potential roles include:

  • Zookeeper
  • Animal or Zoo Nutritionist
  • Zoo experience officer
  • Wildlife park ranger
  • Animal education officer / Docent
  • Aquarium specialist (Aquarist)
  • Conservation educator
  • Animal trainer for presentations
  • Veterinarian
  • Veterinary nurse specialising in exhibited animals
  • Animal attendants
  • Farmhand
  • Animal enrichment and enclosure design specialists
  • Aviary attendant / bird keeper
  • Reptile keeper
  • Wildlife keeper
  • Aquarium keeper

Thinking about studying?

Start your journey to a rewarding career working with Exhibited Animals

These positions play vital roles in animal welfare, conservation efforts, and public education about animals and wildlife. Plus, there is a range of support, management, and administration-based roles, such as events coordinators, partnership managers, school coordinators, customer service officers, sponsorship coordinators, and more.

Key Responsibilities in Exhibited Animal Care

Working with exhibited animals involves a range of tasks that require both specialised knowledge and practical skills:

  • Preparing and administering diets
  • Implementing enrichment activities
  • Maintaining animal habitats and ensuring proper hygiene
  • Monitoring animal health and behaviour
  • Maintaining health and daily care records
  • Assisting with veterinary healthcare
  • Conducting educational programs for visitors
  • Contribute to animal research
  • Participating in breeding and conservation initiatives

While the work can be highly rewarding, it demands dedication, physical stamina, and a strong understanding of animal behaviour and care principles.

Rare carnaby - work with exhibited birds and rehabilitation

Pathways to a Career in Exhibited Animal Care

For those interested in pursuing a career in this field, consider the following steps:

Education

Seek out specialised courses in animal care, starting out with ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care

Get Experience

Many zoos and wildlife parks offer volunteer programs, providing valuable hands-on experience.

More Knowledge

Continue your study pathway and complete the ACM30321 Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care

Develop Skills

Acquire additional skills such as public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in this field.

Working with exhibited animals offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on animal welfare and conservation while educating the public about the importance of protecting our diverse wildlife. For those ready to embark on this rewarding career path, consider exploring our animal care courses, particularly our exhibited animal care focused course, offering a solid foundation for a career in this exciting field.

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AVT has been delivering Vet Nursing and Animal Care related courses for over 25 years. It's safe to say there are no plumbing or hairdressing courses here!

Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

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A recent NCVER VET student outcomes report found 93% of AVT graduates were employed or enrolled in further study after training and 95% of graduates would recommend the training provided by AVT.

Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

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Our qualified teaching team have many years of experience as well as extensive backgrounds in the veterinary and animal care industry. They're approachable and dedicated to helping students succeed.

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