An Expanding Sector

In general, employment opportunities for both aquaculture technicians and farmers are on the increase as major developments in the industry look set to take off. At the moment, it is projected that areas for major growth are Broome, Shark Bay, Exmouth, Wheatbelt region, Albany and Pemberton. Employers include the Fisheries Department, CSIRO, aquaculture farmers, the research departments of universities and private enterprise.

Opportunities for employment in some regional areas are likely to expand with the continued development of mine void aquaculture or arid land aquaculture, where cultivation takes place in expended mine voids and salt lakes. Some traditional aquaculture farms are also beginning to diversify into aquaculture tourism activities.

Each year, approximately 30 places are offered in the Certificate II and III in the Seafood Industry (Seafood Processing and Aquaculture respectively) and around 20 in the Diploma of Seafood Industry (Aquaculture). Entry into the courses is highly competitive.

Environmental Responsibility

Curtin University Head of Department of Applied Biosciences, Glen Whisson, explains that mining companies with an environmental responsibility to rehabilitate mine sites are considering aquaculture.

'Mine sites can be filled in with soil and the trees replanted. Another option is to look at using some of these sites for aquaculture and recreational fishing.'

Glen adds that anyone can get involved in aquaculture, as there are so many areas to go into.

'Ecotoxicology studies is an area you might want to consider if you enjoy science. As an ecotoxicologist, you might find yourself consulting to industry or researching the effects of natural and synthetic pollutants on aquatic animals, plants and micro-organisms. Or, as a fish farm hand, you'll spend most of your time undertaking general labouring duties in the farm,' says Scott Bellerby.

For others considering research, opportunities in this area are expanding due to a recent State government aquatic strategy.

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However, Glen stresses the need for people to combine aquaculture studies with other sciences, where possible, to enhance one's employment opportunities in aquaculture-related industries.

You'll need to be physically fit to work on a farm, and those involved in research must have excellent problem solving skills. It's highly likely you'll also need a scuba diving and boat driving licence if you want to work in the marine area.

There are opportunities to become a self-employed fish farmer, however, you'll have to come up with an innovative idea, and seek out interested investors. To do this, an aquaculture licence is required, and it's important to note that aquaculture is an expensive development that has its share of risks.

Salaries for both aquaculture farmers and technicians start at around $25,000, possibly reaching $50,000 for those with high level qualifications and experience. Self-employed aquaculture farmers may earn above this amount, when the farm is well established.Aquaculture