AUSRIVAS Bioassessment Course - Training & Accreditation

The Australian River Assessment System (AUSRIVAS) is a nationally recognised framework for assessing river health. Developed under the National River Health Program (NRHP) in collaboration with major environmental agencies across Australia, AUSRIVAS provides a standardised approach to assessing the ecological condition of rivers and streams.

AUSRIVAS Online Training Modules and Practical Workshop

The AUSRIVAS bioassessment course is delivered by the Centre for Applied Water Science which sits within the Institute for Applied Ecology at the University of Canberra. The course provides comprehensive training in the theory and practical application of AUSRIVAS methods.

The course is offered as four self-paced online training modules, and a five-day in-person practical workshop. Participants may enrol in the complete course or select individual online modules to suit their needs. While the online modules provide training in AUSRIVAS theory and methods, attendance at the practical workshop is required to gain AUSRIVAS accreditation.

Delivery and Prerequisites

The course aims to teach the skills and knowledge needed to assess river health using AUSRIVAS methods to the required standard. The online modules provide the theoretical knowledge required to understand and apply AUSRIVAS methods and can be completed at your own pace. 

Participants seeking AUSRIVAS accreditation must attend the five-day practical workshop, where they will develop the field and laboratory skills required to apply AUSRIVAS methods to the required standards. Participants who successfully complete the practical workshop are eligible for AUSRIVAS accreditation through the relevant State or Territory agency.

There are no prerequisites for this course. However, participants are strongly encouraged to complete the online modules before attending the practical workshop.

Fees

The online training modules cost $605 (incl. GST) per module for Modules 1-4 and must be completed within 6 months of enrolment. The practical workshop costs $2,475 (incl. GST) per participant and is run over 5 days from the University of Canberra campus and will involve field trips to river sites in the ACT region. The cost of travel to and from the University of Canberra and accommodation is at the expense of the participant. Transport from the University of Canberra to field sites is included in the fees.

Registering Interest and Enrolment

The online modules are available year-round and may be commenced at any time. The five-day practical workshop is offered twice each year, currently in May and November, with limited places available.

To register your interest, request an obligation free enrolment pack or ask a question about this course, please email the AUSRIVAS team at the University of Canberra at ausrivas@canberra.edu.au.