Aquaculture is the farming of fish and shellfish. It is a fast growing global industry that requires a skilled workforce with a high level of research and technical education. There are many possible careers and excellent opportunities for employment. Tasmania is a leader of Australian aquaculture and is the ideal place to integrate learning with industry experience. This experience will be applicable to industry throughout Australia and internationally.

Global demand for fish and shellfish continues to increase but the capacity of natural fisheries to meet this demand is not increasing. Most natural fisheries have reached a production peak or are in decline. This means that all future increase in production will be from aquaculture, which already provides over 30% of the world seafood production.

Australia mirrors the global situation with aquaculture accounting for 25% ($300 million annually) of income from seafood products. Despite this, Australia still imports over 50% of seafood for local consumption. Australia is extremely well-placed to meet shortfalls in domestic production and expand lucrative export markets, through expansion of the already strong aquaculture sector.

WHY STUDY AQUACULTURE?
1. Aquaculture is the fastest growing primary industry and is predicted to keep growing.
2. Aquaculture is a global industry that increasingly employs university educated students and offers a diverse range of careers.
3. Aquaculture is exciting and challenging, it requires practical and scientific skills and an ability to apply science to solve practical problems.
4. You will learn how to culture aquatic animals and plants, apply technology to aquaculture systems, understand aquatic biology and assess policy and regulations.
5. You can choose a career to match your life-style and work indoors in hatcheries or laboratories; work outdoors on land or on the water; work overseas from temperate to tropical areas.