How do I become a fisheries officer
Get qualified to work as a fisheries officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Fisheries Officer.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Fisheries Officer generally earns $1,730 ($89,960 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.
Courses.com.au Team
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
Courses.com.au Team
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.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
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Fisheries Officer careers
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.
