Fisheries officers are responsible for the management, conservation and
preservation of state and territory fishery resources. They work to make
sure that these resources are not endangered or over-exploited.
Fisheries officers patrol and examine waterways
for illegal fishing activities and the taking/destruction of protected
marine life. This may involve inspecting ships, fishing equipment and
processing organisations. They need to compile reports and may be required
to give evidence in court. They may also be involved in education, research
or other clerical duties. They could also be involved in/with assisting
beached whales, the pearling industry, shark nets or monitoring fish and
their habitats.
ANZSCO ID: 311311
Alternative names: Fisheries and
Marine Officer,
Specialisations:The duties of fisheries officers vary greatly across the states and
territories. The type of work they do often depends on the size and type of
commercial fishing and related industries in their region. Fisheries
officers may also serve as fisheries observers on naval patrol boats, or
they may be responsible for wildlife protection.
Fisheries officers may perform the following tasks:
patrol and investigate waterways for unlawful fishing activities and the
removal of protected marine life
make sure that relevant laws and regulations are obeyed
inspect fishing vessels, fishing gear and processing establishments to
ensure compliance
survey oyster, pearling, fishing and prawning leases to make sure that
regulations are observed
advise industry personnel on fishing regulations, export standards and the
renewal of fishing licences
check that fish are sold through legal markets and that fish markets do not
sell undersized fish
investigate alleged breaches of legislation
prepare reports and provide evidence in court when required
assist in the supervision of shark nets
identify, survey and monitor areas and activities that affect fish and their
habitats
promote marine management programs and policies
educate, advise and provide information on a wide range of topics relating
to fish and their protection
assist other agencies by responding to emergency situations such as oil
spills and the beaching of whales
provide assistance in research programs
keep vessels and equipment in good order
produce statistical reports and undertake other clerical duties.
may initiate or assist in legal action to enforce regulations.
Working Conditions
Fisheries officers are required to wear uniforms. They work irregular hours,
including weekends, public holidays and nights. They are often required to
move around the state or territory and may be absent from their headquarters
for long periods. They work in all weather conditions and may have to sleep
in vehicles, tents or boats.
Tools and technologies
Fisheries officers need to have a current C class driver’s licence. A boat
licence would be highly desirable.
Education and training/entrance requirements
To become a fisheries officer in Queensland, SA and Victoria, you usually
have to complete a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary
between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further
information. You can also become a fisheries officer through a traineeship.
Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10. In NSW
and WA, you usually need to complete training with the relevant government
department. In Tasmania, you can work as a marine and rescue officer with
Tasmania Police or as an inland fisheries enforcement officer with the
Inland Fisheries Service. To work as a marine and rescue officer, applicants
must first become qualified police officers. Fisheries officer does not
exist as a separate occupation in the NT. This role is performed by sworn
officers of the NT Police. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you
have a degree in fisheries and aquaculture, criminal justice, criminology,
environmental science, environmental management or a related area. To get
into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary
Certificate of Education. Universities have different prerequisites and some
have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the
institutions you are interested in for more information.
Additional Information
Depending on your state, you may be required to hold a drivers licence and
boating licence. You may also need to be an Australian citizen or have
permanent residency, undergo a National Police Check, hold a Provide First
Aid Certificate, undergo a medical assessment or obtain a Coxswains
Certificate. Applicants may be required to pass a swimming test or hold a
swimming certificate or licence. See the separate entry for Lifeguard for
more information.
Employment Opportunities
Fisheries officers are employed by state or territory governments in
fisheries or primary industries departments. Entry to this occupation is
very competitive. With experience, and further training, fisheries
officers may move into professional science positions or into general
management.
The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) is the government
agency responsible for the efficient management and sustainable use of
Commonwealth fish resources on behalf of the Australian community.
Officers performing duties on behalf of AFMA may be required to perform
duties anywhere in Australia.