Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range of Variables defines the different contexts, work environments and parameters governing the performance of this unit of competency. The variables chosen in training and assessment will need to reflect local industry and regional contexts.

What are the relevant Federal, State legislation and local regulations that may be included?
Environmental protection, pest animals, use of firearms (including licensing requirements and exemptions), humane treatment of animals, activities in nature reserves and heritage areas, poisons and veterinary substances, identification and reporting of suspected outbreaks of exotic disease, OHS regulations, and common law principles relating to property, stock, duty of care and due diligence.

Which animals may be included in this standard?
Species determined to be pests of primary production, the environment or public health and lifestyle, and those requiring destruction for humane reasons.

What might be included as resources?
Human, financial, physical (traps, firearms, ammunition, poisons, fencing materials, veterinary products), land, air and water transport facilities and plant (excavators, front-end loaders).

What training may be required for this standard?
All mandatory training in firearm use and maintenance.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?
Competence in shooting animals requires evidence that animals are destroyed by firearms according to enterprise guidelines and industry best practice. The skills and knowledge required to shoot animals must be transferable to a range of work environments and contexts. For example, this could include different animals, firearms and environments.
What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this unit are listed below:

Relevant legislation.
OHS regulations.
Common law principles relating to property, stock, duty of care and due diligence.
Risks to land users posed by animals including exotic diseases.
Animal life cycles and behaviours.
Anatomy and physical features of the animal.
Firearms safety.
Suitable firearms and ammunition for given pest problem.
Animal welfare.
Emergency procedures appropriate to the firearms handling.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, some complementary skills are required. These skills include the ability to:

Plan own work activities.
Manage own time.
Shooting accuracy.
Use and maintenance of firearms.

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one?
This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function.

Essential Assessment Information
For information about

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?
There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.
Communicating ideas and information
Clarify requirements and expectations for the job and liaise with work colleagues. (1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
Determine requirements for type of firearm/ammunition. (2)

Planning and organising activities
Organise own work activities. (2)

Working with others and in teams
Collaborate with work colleagues during work activities. (2)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
Estimate ammunition requirements and assess range/trajectory. (2)

Solving problems
Consider problems that arise during the job and determine contingency activities. (1)

Using technology
Use and maintain firearms. (2)