Different RTOs may list lower workplace hours because they may choose different units or structure their work placement differently. For example, in ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services (Online), our 250‑hour guideline reflects the type and volume of units we deliver, which involve a strong emphasis on animal contact, handling, care and safety.
This recommendation is especially beneficial for students who are new to the industry or have limited animal experience. The actual time you need will depend on your existing skills, knowledge and confidence. Some students become work-ready more quickly, while others need the maximum hours (or even more) to feel truly competent.
Our guideline is intended to support you – not create a barrier. It ensures you have enough real experience to be genuinely work ready, confident and safe in an animal‑related workplace. It also helps you develop the hands-on skills you need to reinforce and apply your theoretical learning.
What does the national training package require?
The training package outlines the skills and knowledge you must demonstrate but does not specify how many hours you should spend in a workplace. This gives RTOs flexibility to design their courses differently.
Why some RTO’s and training organisations set lower hours
- They rely more heavily on simulated training in classrooms rather than real life scenarios
- They tightly interpret the minimum evidence requirements (meaning they adopt the bare minimum approach)
How do I know if a course has enough practical training?
Look for information about:
- how many hours are spent in a real workplace
- how practical assessments are carried out
- whether on-campus practical days or workshops are included
- the type of animals and environments you will work with and how they correspond to your course material
Why AVT’s approach for online students stands out (and why hours matter for students)
Our higher placement hours for online courses mean:
- You will graduate with more confidence
- Practical tasks are assessed over a longer, more realistic timeline and are consistent with industry standards
- You will get more meaningful exposure to animal handling, welfare, client and team interactions, and daily routines
- Employers perceive AVT graduates as more job-ready
