Disconnection between research and commercial sectors are a real challenge for the seafood industry as a whole. This disconnection leads to lack of communication about research needs from industry and poor adoption of research outcomes. Consultation with industry has identified a need for more industry ready graduates who have a deeper understanding and connection with the Australian seafood industry and understand more thoroughly the nature and the challenges commercial facilities face in all facets of their business.

In addition, there is a need to enhance two way communication and cooperation between industry and research providers. The CRC SIPP program will assist in improving that process by enabling opportunities for industry and researchers to understand each other’s views, challenges and promote better communication on ideas and projects.

Fisheries and aquaculture facilities across Australia suffer from the lack of an appropriately skilled workforce and this effects the ability of an industry as a whole to reach its full potential. To add to this, science based post high school education also suffers from a shortage of uptake. The staffing profile of the seafood industry within the two regions outlined, are extremely diverse. The industry needs skilled confident workers ranging from general farm hands through to management and many levels in between. The industry is also underpinned by quality researchers that work both within the commercial enterprises or associated research institutions.

Future staff, researchers and managers of the seafood industry are currently within the Australian education system. Effectively communicating all of the career possibilities that the seafood industry has to offer to students while they are formulating decisions about their future is vital for the longevity of the industry.

There are currently high schools that embed aquaculture within their curriculum. These programs are more often then not, driven by a small number of devoted educators. The level of engagement they have with local commercial producers, research bodies and other schools engaged in similar activities varies greatly between programs and there exists great potential for developing linkages and networks. Having an understand of how these schools deliver their fisheries and aquaculture education will allow associated agencies such as the Seafood CRC recognise the potential opportunities for future relationships. Also, it is also an opportunity to alert high schools and their students of the many opportunities within the seafood industry which may in turn have a positive effect on their career choice.