RGR40118 - Certificate IV in Racing (Racehorse Trainer)

Step into the thrilling world of horse racing. As a licensed racehorse trainer, you'll lead with confidence, train elite athletes, manage dynamic racing establishments, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and care. Turn your passion for horses into a nationally recognised career. 

This Certificate IV in racing racehorse trainer reflects the role of individuals licensed to operate a business that trains horses under racing industry regulated licensing criteria for the purpose of competing in industry-regulated events in the harness or thoroughbred racing codes.

It covers the care, maintenance and performance of racehorses and the tasks and duties associated with running a racing establishment, including managing staff, finances and equipment. Trainers are responsible for planning and organising their own work, leading others and carrying out often complex and non-routine tasks.

This qualification is required for industry licensing and registration in some states and territories. Users are advised to check with the relevant Principal Racing Authority for current requirements.

Why study a Certificate IV in Racing (Racehorse Trainer)

• Become a licensed racehorse trainer - This qualification is required for licensing in many Australian states and territories to operate a racing business.
• Train horses for competitive racing - Learn to condition, prepare, and manage horses for performance in harness or thoroughbred racing events.
• Manage a racing establishment - Gain skills in staff supervision, financial management, equipment coordination, and stable operations.
• Lead with confidence - Develop leadership and planning abilities to oversee complex, non-routine tasks in a dynamic racing environment.
• Apply industry ethics and integrity - Understand and uphold the rules, responsibilities, and ethical standards of the racing industry.
• Tailor training programs for horses - Learn to assess horse fitness, implement exercise regimes, and monitor health and welfare.
• Progress from hands-on to strategic roles - Ideal for experienced stablehands or trackwork riders ready to step into business ownership or senior training roles.
• Nationally recognised qualification - Accredited under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), respected across the racing industry.
  
  

Key responsibilities

• Design and manage individual training programs and race campaigns for each horse 
• Assess horse fitness and performance, adjusting training and spelling as needed 
• Ensure the daily health, welfare, feeding and care of all horses in the stable 
• Coordinate veterinary, farrier and other specialist care 
• Recruit, supervise and manage stable staff, including trackwork riders and stablehands 
• Run the training operation as a business, fees, budgets and cash flow 
• Communicate with owners on horse progress, plans and costs 
• Manage race-day requirements including nominations, acceptances and jockey bookings 
• Meet all licensing, integrity and rules of racing obligations

Course duration & Delivery mode

Duration

• Full Time: 12 months
• Part Time: 24 months

Delivery mode

Blended Learning – combination of on-the-job training, face to face and e-learning.

Entry requirements

To undertake this qualification the individual must have:

• a racing industry Certificate III qualification demonstrating industry-relevant experience in the care, welfare and management of horses such as RGR30518 Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider), or RGR30218 Certificate III in Racing (Stablehand), or RGR30318 Certificate III in Racing (Driving Stablehand).

OR

• demonstrated equivalent skills and knowledge in the care, welfare and management of horses commensurate with the qualifications above.
   

Program requirements

The following requirements apply to all students undertaking this program. They cover the physical demands, licensing, equipment and technology needs, and language, literacy and numeracy skills involved in training and working in the racing industry.

• Training and assessment involves moderate physical activity. Students must be able to actively participate in scheduled training and assessment activities, both on and off-the-job.
• Students must complete workplace tasks in accordance with employer expectations.
• Students must have established horse handling skills and be capable of safely managing the care, welfare and preparation of racehorses in a stable environment
• Students must possess adequate language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills to comprehend learning materials and effectively carry out routine work tasks within their role.
• Students must have access to a computer, laptop, or tablet with reliable internet to engage with online materials, along with basic computer skills.
• Students are required to obtain appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the course, which may include enclosed footwear, suitable work clothing, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), a high-visibility vest (if not supplied by the employer), wet weather gear, and any additional PPE required by their workplace. 
•  Students must obtain the appropriate racing industry licence relevant to their training prior to, or at the commencement of, the course and maintain this licence for the duration of their enrolment.

For information regarding licensing requirements and the application process, please contact the relevant racing authority in your state:

• Queensland: Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) – https://qric.qld.gov.au/licensing-and-registration
• South Australia: Racing SA – https://www.racingsa.com.au/licensing-and-forms/licensing-forms
• Tasmania: Tasracing – https://tasracing.com.au/integrity

Please note: RQ will contact individuals who express interest in enrolling to assess their language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills. The team can provide supplementary learning support where basic assistance is needed, and can facilitate referrals to specialised LLND development providers for those requiring more extensive support, ensuring learners are ready to commence the course effectively.

Industry connection tip: This program requires hands-on industry experience in the care and management of racehorses and is best suited to individuals working alongside an established racehorse trainer in a registered racing stable, for example in a foreperson, stable supervisor or senior stablehand role, with access to horses in training to support their skill development. Not currently working in one of these environments? Contact our Education Department to discuss your options.

Course packaging

To achieve this qualification, competency must be demonstrated in 16 units of competency: 7 core units + 9 elective units.

Core Units (7)

Electives (9)

Career pathways and outcomes

Certificate IV in Racing as a racehorse trainer can become a licensed Trainer and train and condition horses for racing, manage stable operations, and oversee race preparation under industry-regulated licensing criteria. With pathways to the following:

• Foreperson or Assistant Trainer – Support senior trainers in managing horses and staff.
• Stable Manager – Oversee daily operations, logistics, and compliance within a racing establishment.
• Racing Business Owner – Operate a licensed training business, manage finances, and liaise with owners and racing authorities.
• Industry Mentor or Educator – Share expertise through training, assessment, or advisory roles in vocational education.

Graduates of this qualification will be able to:

• Apply advanced knowledge of horse health, nutrition, and conditioning to develop effective training programs.
• Manage daily stable operations, including staff supervision and horse care.
• Prepare horses for racing, trials, and recovery in line with industry standards.
• Ensure compliance with racing rules, licensing requirements, and welfare obligations.
• Communicate effectively with owners, jockeys, veterinarians, and racing officials.

Ready to Become a Horse Trainer? Here’s What to Know

• Early Starts, every day racehorse training requires dedication - early mornings and consistent routines are key.
• Keep Horses and Stables in Top Condition: A trainer must ensure horses are fit, healthy, and well-prepared for racing.
• Train With Skill and Care: You’ll manage multiple horses, supervise staff, and plan training programs - expertise and confidence are essential.
• Racing is a Lifestyle: Be prepared for long days, fast-paced environments, and weekends at the track.

Fees

Course fees are determined based on the student’s enrolment pathway, funding eligibility (where applicable) and the qualification being undertaken. 
 
 Where government-funded training is available, student contributions and any applicable concession arrangements will be applied in accordance with the relevant funding program requirements.
 
 Students who are not eligible for government funding will be enrolled under a fee-for-service arrangement.
 
Information regarding applicable fees and charges will be provided to students prior to enrolment, ensuring they have the opportunity to make an informed decision before commencing training. For further information regarding current fees and charges, please refer to the Fees Schedule.

How to apply

Ready to get started?

Select your state below and complete the relevant expression of interest form:

• Queensland expression of interest form
• Tasmania expression of interest form
• South Australia expression of interest form

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 07 3869 9781