Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

Aquaculture Workers (OSCA 841331) perform essential routine tasks in the breeding and raising of fish and other aquatic stock within Australian aquaculture operations. These workers form part of the agricultural labour force, specifically within the Mixed Production and Aquaculture Farm Workers unit group. Their work supports Australia's growing aquaculture industry, which includes marine and freshwater operations producing species such as salmon, barramundi, prawns, and oysters.

In the Australian context, this occupation involves practical, hands-on work across various aquaculture environments including tanks, ponds, cages, and natural water bodies. Workers typically operate under supervision while developing skills in stock management, equipment operation, and basic aquaculture principles. The classification is used for employment data collection, workforce planning, and statistical analysis within Australia's primary industries sector.

Key tasks in practice

Aquaculture Workers undertake diverse practical tasks to maintain healthy stock and efficient operations:

  • Feeding aquatic stock according to schedules and monitoring growth progression through regular grading
  • Maintaining infrastructure including nets, cages, and long-line systems, and assisting with farm layout improvements
  • Operating and maintaining equipment such as water pumps, aeration systems, and occasionally forklifts or small cranes
  • Conducting water quality testing and removing deceased stock to maintain health standards
  • Harvesting mature stock and preparing products for transportation through sorting and packing
  • Restocking operations with juvenile fish and recording production data for monitoring purposes

Skill level explanation

As a Skill Level 5 occupation under the OSCA classification, Aquaculture Worker positions typically require:

  • Short-term on-the-job training rather than formal qualifications
  • Basic literacy and numeracy skills for recording data and following instructions
  • Physical capability for manual tasks in various weather conditions
  • Ability to follow established procedures and work under supervision

This skill level indicates that most competencies are acquired through workplace experience rather than formal education. Some employers may provide specific training in areas like equipment operation, food safety, or stock handling techniques.

Industry context

Aquaculture Workers are employed across various Australian aquaculture sectors corresponding to ANZSIC industries including seafood processing (9429), aquaculture production (0203), and other fishery activities. The occupation is primarily found in:

  • Marine aquaculture operations farming species like salmon and tuna
  • Freshwater fish farms producing species such as barramundi and Murray cod
  • Crustacean farming operations including prawn and crayfish production
  • Shellfish farms cultivating oysters, mussels, and other molluscs

Employment opportunities exist throughout Australia with concentrations in regions supporting aquaculture development, including Tasmania, South Australia, and coastal areas of Queensland and Western Australia. The occupation contributes to Australia's food production sector and export economy.