How to Become a Meteorologist in Australia: careers in Science

A meteorologist studies how the atmosphere works to forecast weather and model long-term climate trends. This is a technical field built on maths, physics, and weather science. In Australia, most enter through a relevant bachelor’s degree followed by a postgraduate program in meteorology.

Most work for the Bureau of Meteorology, Australia’s national weather and climate agency. Others work in defence, aviation, private consulting, mining, farming, and research bodies such as CSIRO. Around 710 meteorologists are employed in Australia, and Jobs and Skills Australia (2025) rates future demand as strong.

The role involves building and reading weather forecast models and checking satellite and radar data. Meteorologists also share forecasts with technical experts and the general public. Strong computing skills and the ability to explain complex data clearly are vital at every career level.

Climate change is making extreme weather events more frequent. This is growing the need for skilled meteorologists across government, industry, and research. The profession offers real impact. The forecasts and research meteorologists produce inform public safety decisions every day.