How do I become a outdoor activity instructor
Get qualified to work as a outdoor activity instructor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Outdoor Activity Instructor.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Outdoor Activity Instructor 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.
Courses.com.au Team
This industry has seen strong employment growth in recent years. There are currently 6,800 people employed as an Outdoor Activity Instructor in Australia, compared to 1,400 five years ago. Outdoor Activity Instructors may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
A Diploma of Outdoor Leadership is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as an Outdoor Activity Instructor. This course covers topics including activity planning, risk management, legal compliance, weather and environment interpretation and customer service. You could also consider a Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
Careers for people who love the outdoors
14th September 2021
Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers
10th November 2023All outdoor activity instructor courses
- Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Environmental Science
- Bachelor of Outdoor Leadership
- HLTAID009 & HLTAID010 & HLTAID011 & HLTAID012 First Aid Plus
- HLTAID009 & HLTAID010 & HLTAID011 First Aid (Including CPR)
- SIS20419 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation
- SIS30122 Certificate III in Sport, Aquatics and Recreation
- SIS30619 Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership
- SIS40310 Certificate IV in Outdoor Recreation (Instruct 4WDrive Skills)
- SIS40621 Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership
- SIS50421 Diploma of Outdoor Leadership
- SISOCLM003 Lead Climb Single Pitches, Natural Surfaces
- SISOCLM004 Lead Climb Multi Pitches, Natural Surfaces
- SISORAF002 Guide a Raft on Grade 3 Rivers
- SISORAF003 Guide a Raft on Grade 4 Rivers
- SISOSKT002 Ski on Intermediate Cross Country Terrain
- SISOSKT003 Use Snow Craft Skills for Alpine Touring
- SISSS00126 Wilderness First Aid
- VU21800 Provide First Aid Management of Anaphylaxis
Outdoor Activity Instructor careers
An Outdoor Activity Instructor provides guidance and instruction to a group of participants in an outdoor activity. You might be working with clients who have never done the activity before or you might provide advanced guidance to more experienced participants. Outdoor Activity Instructors demonstrate safe techniques and ensure equipment is properly set up and maintained.
Outdoor Activity Instructors should have a strong focus on safety and be able to communicate well with participants of all abilities. Interpersonal skills are important and you’ll need to be able to adapt to a range of circumstances. Outdoor Activity Instructors should be physically fit and passionate about the activity they are taking.
