A comprehensive new national workforce plan has been launched that identifies key workforce challenges and opportunities across the agriculture, aquaculture and wild catch fishing sectors, with a strong focus on preparing industries for future workforce needs. The plan highlights current and emerging skills shortages, changing job roles, technological advancements and career pathways that will help attract and retain the next generation of workers.
The plan also recognises the important role played by Australia’s commercial fishing, wild catch and aquaculture sectors in ensuring the nation’s seafood security while supporting coastal, regional and First Nations communities.
Federal Minister for Skills and Training, the Hon. Andrew Giles MP, said strategic workforce planning is essential to ensure the industry has the skills, knowledge and leadership needed to remain productive, resilient and competitive.
As the industry adapts to evolving environmental conditions, emerging technologies, sustainability requirements and changing market demands, investing in future workforce capability has never been more important.
The commercial fishing industry is facing significant change, requiring a workforce equipped with skills in areas such as sustainable fisheries management, digital technologies, vessel operations, environmental stewardship, biosecurity, data collection and regulatory compliance.
As workforce demands continue to evolve, industries need access to people with the right skills, training and career opportunities. The commercial fishing sector continues to require a highly skilled workforce that can adapt to new technologies, changing regulations and sustainable fishing practices.
The plan will work across multiple support channels with Vocational Education and Training (VET) playing an important role in developing job-ready workers and supporting career progression across the industry.
The VET pathway will support people entering the workforce and upskilling existing employees.
By working together under the new workforce plan, industry, government and training providers can ensure the commercial fishing sector has the skilled workforce needed to grow into the future.
The Workforce Plan 2026–2027 identifies priority areas where collaboration between industry, government and the VET sector can strengthen workforce capability, improve training pathways and support long-term industry sustainability.
The plan will guide Skills Insight’s workforce development activities over the coming year and will continue to be reviewed to ensure it remains responsive to emerging industry trends and workforce requirements.