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A Fisheries Officer takes part in patrols of marine and freshwater waterways to ensure fisheries resources are being used sustainably. You’ll make sure laws relating to fisheries are being upheld and gather evidence on any illegal activity you observe. You might carry out inspections of recreational fishers or commercial fishing operations to make sure their catch, equipment and vessel meet regulations. Fisheries Officers also take part in management programs, educational activities and research projects.
A Fisheries Officer will spend most of their day around water so you’ll need to be a confident swimmer and able to operate marine vessels. You’ll have to be comfortable with shift work as you’ll often work weekends or start very early in the morning. You’ll need to be a strong communicator and be able to deal with a range of people in various environments. Good negotiation and conflict management skills are important.
There are 4 courses available for people who want to become a Fisheries Officer.
Possible job outcomes:
A Master of Science (Aquaculture Science and Technology) is the course you need to specialise your skills in the growing field of aquaculture. From cultivating and breeding aquaculture species to managing and conserving critical aquaculture environments, this course looks at current practices in the industry and explores issues for future sustainability. You might pursue a career in research, environmental care, conservation or natural resource management. The Master of Science (Aquaculture Science and Technology) includes core subjects such as feeding and nutrition, propagation, hatchery techniques and sustainable aquaculture. You’ll also be able to choose from a range of elective topics like stock improvement, ecological dynamics, bioinformatics and field techniques. You might choose to study geographic information systems, remote sensing, data mining and marine sensor technologies. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates..
Average duration: 18 months.
The Bachelor of Science (Marine Science) offers a multidisciplinary approach, equipping students with comprehensive marine knowledge. It promotes an interdisciplinary mindset to meet the increasing need for coastal and marine specialists. This study enables students to observe, experiment, and analyze marine habitats and environments. Graduates are proficient in data collection, whether hands-on, in labs, or using advanced satellite technologies, positioning them for diverse roles in marine exploration and research..
Average duration: 3 years.
The Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology) delves into marine organisms and their environmental interactions. Aimed at enthusiasts of marine life and coastal habitats, it addresses urgent challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and population growth. This course equips students to tackle global concerns such as the effects of tourism, pollution, and global warming on oceans. Graduates gain expertise in marine systems, ecological principles, environmental management, and acquire knowledge spanning from biology to oceanography..
Become an operations manager at an aquaculture farm with the Diploma of Aquaculture (SFI50119). This nationally recognised diploma delivers a mix of leadership, administration, and aquaculture operational skills. The course covers: establishing an aquaculture facility, ensuring the sustainability and biosecurity of aquaculture operations, developing a stock nutrition and breeding strategy, developing stock production plans, culturing new species, auditing aquaculture operations, managing machinery and equipment, communicating with influence, hiring staff and developing your work team, managing budgets, and much more. This course is also suited to aquaculture consultants and industry advisors. Enquire now for the full list of study units, available specialisation units, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 12 months.
In Australia, a full time Fisheries Officer generally earns $1,550 ($80,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There are only a small number of people working as a Fisheries Officer but this number has remained steady over the last five years. Currently there are 410 Fisheries Officers in Australia. Fisheries Officers work in all areas of Australia in both marine and freshwater environments.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
A Diploma of Aquaculture is a good qualification if you’re hoping to become a Fisheries Officer. This course usually takes two years and covers aspects of aquaculture that may be relevant to a Fisheries Officer career.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within fishing and aquaculture. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Fishing and Aquaculture
Aquaculture Worker
$960 weekly pay
Seafood Process Worker
Aquaculture Technician
$1,150 weekly pay
Hatchery Technician
Seafood Distributor
Aquaculture Manager
$1,550 weekly pay
Fisheries Officer
Learn more about Fisheries Officer courses in your area.