Coming from County Cork, Austin was immersed into the equine industry from a young age. Austin represented Ireland in numerous international competitions on the Junior and Young Rider teams, which included a Gold medal win in the Young Rider World Championships in 1995. He went on to represent Ireland at senior level eight times, including three Olympic Games.

Austin is now based at Attington Sport Horses in Oxfordshire, a state-of-the-art equestrian facility that includes gallops and an all-weather surfaced cross-country schooling complex. From here Austin produces, competes and also offers training and clinics.