Course Overview

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to destroy animals humanely using firearms. Shooting is a quick and effective means of humanely destroying animals and in some situations is the only practical method available in the field. Shooting may be conducted on foot or with various vehicles. Techniques in shooting pest animals will depend on the type of animal that is being shot and whether the shooter is stationary or mobile. This unit is not applicable to using firearms from aircraft. This unit applies to individuals who work under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work. They use discretion and judgement in the selection and use of available resources. Firearms licensing conditions apply to this unit. Specific approval should be sought through the relevant State or Territory Firearms licensing agency. Appropriate firearms licences and training are also required for those involved in training and assessment against this unit. Destruction of pest animals must comply with state animal cruelty legislation. In addition to legal responsibilities, all units of competency dealing with animals in the AHC Training Package have the requirements for animals to be handled humanely to minimise stress and discomfort. 

Available Units of Competency

• AHCPMG304 - Use firearms to humanely destroy animals 

Entry Requirements

Strict eligibility criteria is specified on this program per Weapons Act Legislation

• Possess a Current Weapons (Firearms) License from your State/Territory
• Have a thorough understanding of animal control & wildlife welfare responsibilities
• Have a thorough understanding & demonstrated application of safe responsible firearms ownership
• Current Driver’s License or valid photo ID
• No previous violations/orders that preclude participation as an unfit person as specified in the relevant State/Territory Weapons Act & Regulations.
• Be familiar with and demonstrate field application of Risk Management and mitigation strategies
• Current Firearms Licence endorsed with both categories and activities being assessed is required. Practical assessment is a key part of the competency assessment.

Note: This qualification or specific units of competency may satisfy some requirements for State/ Territory licensing. Participants seeking certification & licensing should check the requirements with appropriate authorities 

Delivery Options

Face to face, workplace assisted and remote delivery support strategies available. 

Learning Outcomes

• Plan and prepare for the shoot
• Select appropriate firearms, ammunition and resources for task
• Prepare, use, maintain & store firearms per applicable state/territory legislation
• Assess animal species, physical features, habitat and habitual movements
• Shoot animals in an ethical, humane manner and refer to relevant codes of practice
• Ensure safety in the field whilst undertaking shooting activities including other members of the public
• Clean and maintain equipment
• Ensure animals being utilized for research are handled per applicable codes of practice/state operating requirements and licensed
• Dispose of carcasses in ethical way relevant to state/territory requirements 

Career Opportunities

Primary producer / Research officers / Professional shooters/cullers 

Assessment Process

This Course is offered as a workshop delivery and field assessment activity conducted over a minimum of 2 days (depending on student knowledge, competency and current industry competency). All participants are required to complete a pre-course reading assessment, attend the course interactive presentation and complete the theory assessments PRIOR to undertaking field practical assessment covering the key element requirements of the unit of competency and demonstrate a thorough understanding and application of these skills. 

Course Fees

Specific course pricing is subject to delivery location, travel, required resources for the delivery & assessment of competency against course requirements and your individual training needs.

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

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