Professional fishermen play an increasingly important role in catching and maintaining the quality of seafood products that are in high demand as part of our diet.

Similarly, they make every effort to protect the environment. People employed in this industry operate on fishing vessels that vary from small one person boats to large ocean going trawlers with crews of up to fifteen.  Most operations in Victoria are small, family owned boats. All crews work as a team and perform a variety of tasks, often in difficult conditions.

What sort of jobs are there?

Deckhand
This is the starting point for a commercial fishing career and syou are likely to be involved in activities involving setting lines or nets, operating winches, sorting & packing the catch. Most deckhand work requires a good level of physical fitness.

Coxswain
This person can operate a small fishing vessel or provide support to the skipper of a large vessel. In additional to performing all the duties of a deckhand, the Coxwain has responsibility for keeping watch and for navigation. To become a Coxswain you need to have completed one year at sea and additional courses in radio telephony and Elements of Shipboard Safety.

Skipper
The skipper is in charge of the vessel, which can be worth anything from a few thousand dollars to a few million dollars. The work involves maritime skills such as navigating and steering a vessel and fishing skills such as locating , catching and storing fish.

Marine Engine Driver
The engine driver is in charge of machinery and engines on seagoing vessels. The work involves a variety of maintenance tasks and training includes diesel or refrigeration mechanics combined with time at sea. Note: Refer to your State Marine Authority for details on occupational licensing requirements.

Qualifications and occupations

Bolding indicates a qualification appears on the Victorian Funded Course List, meaning subsidies are available for eligible students. Refer to the latest Funded Course List for more information.