Outdoor Recreation Leader Courses
Outdoor Recreation Leaders supervise community outdoor activities, ensuring safety, providing instruction, and coordinating staff and equipment.
AI Exposure
Medium

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Outdoor Recreation Leader
Get qualified to work as a Outdoor Recreation Leader with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
SIS40621
Duration
4 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Become an outdoor recreation instructor with the SIS40621 Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to lead and supervise outdoor activities according to an activity plan. The course covers participant safety, weather considerations, using communications equipment, co-ordinating emergency responses, and facilitating groups. Choose electives to support job roles in abseiling, kayaking, bushwalking, canyoning, climbing, whitewater rafting, caving, cyc...
Career opportunities
Duration
4 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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SIS30619
Duration
3 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
Begin a career in your favourite outdoor activity with the Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership (SIS30619). This nationally recognised qualification will give you the confidence to co-ordinate a group activity as well as interpret the weather and environmental conditions, operate communications equipment, maintain equipment, manage group safety, and respond to an emergency. Choose career electives in abseiling, bushwalking, climbing, cycle touring, horse riding, 4WD, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting,...
Career opportunities
Duration
3 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
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SIS50421
Duration
12 months - 3 years
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
How about an exciting career in outdoor adventure? The SIS50421 Diploma of Outdoor Leadership can launch your career in abseiling, bushwalking, canyoning, challenge course, climbing, whitewater rafting and canoeing, cycle touring, kayaking, surfing, skiing, SCUBA diving, horse riding, and more. The course covers: risk management and safety, leading extended tours and activity groups, interpreting the weather, managing legal compliance. Choose electives that support your interests and adventure hobbies. En...
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 3 years
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
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The Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Environmental Science prepares you for a career in nature. This degree opens up various opportunities for outdoor work and includes numerous field-based components to enhance your understanding of outdoor environments. You will learn to navigate and experience the natural environment and help others appreciate it.
Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates.
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Common questions

How much does an Outdoor Recreation Leader earn?
In Australia, a full time Outdoor Recreation Leader generally earns $1,250 per week ($65,000 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.

What are the job opportunities for an Outdoor Recreation Leader?
The number of people working in this industry has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 6,800 people employed as an Outdoor Recreation Leader in Australia, compared to 1,400 five years ago. Outdoor Recreation Leaders may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become an Outdoor Recreation Leader?
If you’re planning a career as an Outdoor Recreation Leader, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Outdoor Leadership. You’ll develop skills in activity planning, risk management, legal compliance, weather and environment interpretation and customer service. A Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership may also be suitable.
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Have a passion for sports and fitness? Set your career on the right track with an accredited course in sport, fitness and recreation. Start today!
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Community recreation courses are ideal for those looking to work in sports, fitness and recreation roles in the community. Education pathways for domestic and international students.
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Fitness courses are designed to prepare students with everything they need for careers as personal trainers and fitness instructors. Start today!
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Turn your love for the outdoors into a career or advance job prospects with an accredited course in outdoor education. Pathways for domestic and international students.
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More information
An Outdoor Recreation Leader supervises outdoor activities organised for the community or for paying participants. You’ll coordinate a range of activities such as climbing, surfing or mountain biking. You’ll ensure activities are meeting safety standards and participants are being given proper instruction. Outdoor Recreation Leaders might promote or advertise their activities and organise staffing and equipment.
Outdoor Recreation Leaders should have excellent communication skills and be able to motivate their team. Strong interpersonal skills are important and you should be able to liaise with people from a range of backgrounds. Outdoor Recreation Leaders should be physically fit and passionate about outdoor activities. You’ll need to be organised and able to manage your time.
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