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ANZSCO 234516Skill level 1Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Marine Biologist

A Marine Biologist studies marine organisms and ecosystems, contributing to conservation, aquaculture, fisheries management, and environmental assessment in Australia's extensive marine environment.

Indicative salary range
$65,000 - $120,000 (2025 indicative)

Full-time AUD, 2025 indicative. Wide bands reflect variation by employer, experience, and location.

Labour market demand

Moderate demand in environmental consulting, government marine agencies, and research institutions.

Occupation list membership

Which Department of Home Affairs skilled lists this occupation currently appears on.

  • MLTSSLMedium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List

    Occupations eligible for permanent visas including Subclass 189 and 190.

  • CSOLCombined Skilled Occupation List

    The merged skilled list that consolidates previous MLTSSL and STSOL eligibility under the Skills in Demand program.

Assessing authority

The body that assesses skills for migration purposes for this occupation.

Visa pathways

Australian visa subclasses for which this occupation is currently eligible.

State nominations

States and territories that currently nominate this occupation for skilled migration.

CodeState / TerritoryDetails
VICVictoriaView nomination →
WAWestern AustraliaView nomination →
SASouth AustraliaView nomination →

Key duties

  • Conduct marine surveys, diving surveys, and habitat assessments
  • Study marine species biology, ecology, and population dynamics
  • Assess impacts of development and pollution on marine systems
  • Publish research and advise on marine conservation management

Skills required

  • Marine ecology and species identification
  • SCUBA diving and underwater survey techniques
  • Environmental impact assessment for marine environments
  • Scientific research and data analysis

Typical qualifications pathway

Bachelor's degree in marine biology or marine science. VETASSESS assesses qualifications.

Visa & occupation list information

Listed on MLTSSL and CSOL, enabling subclasses 186, 189, 190, 482, 485, 491, and 494 For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.

anzsco.com.au is information-only. For personalised advice on your situation, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.

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Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: