It is important that you read and understand the information below in order to participate on Australian diving expeditions.


Briefing

It is important that you read the expedition briefing thoroughly as it contains very important and useful information regarding logistics such as instructions for reaching the project site, what to pack, where your team will be staying, what immunisations you might need, how to physically prepare for your expedition, and more. Your briefing also explains the research being conducted through the project, why it is important, and what role you will play in the work as an Earthwatch volunteer. This information will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable expedition with Earthwatch.


Earthwatch Australia Diving Requirements

Earthwatch Australia diving standards have been developed to fully comply with the Australian Standard for Scientific Diving (AS/NZS2299.2-2002.) This allows joint diving operations between Earthwatch teams and other scientific organisations.  

To take part in an Earthwatch Australia diving project you need to register as an Earthwatch Research Diver and meet the following requirements:

  • Hold at least an Open-Water diver certification from a recognised diver training agency
  • Have a working familiarity with the short form DCIEM Air Decompression Tables
  • Supply an occupational diving medical from a medical practitioner appropriately trained in underwater medicine stating that the diver is fit to dive using compressed air, as well as noting any limitations imposed by the doctor. This medical must be dated within 12 months of the start date of the expedition and include a chest X-ray.  You can find the doctor nearest to you by going to the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society site: http://www.spums.org.au/ and clicking the diving doctor list.  Costs may vary between doctors.
  • Have logged at least 30 dives since completion of your Open-Water dive course, with at least one of those dives logged within six months of the start date of the expedition, and in waters similar to those of the planned dive (e.g. temperate).
  • If intending to use your own SCUBA diving equipment, it must be inspected by the Divemaster or Dive Coordinator prior to diving, and evidence must be supplied to show that it is in current test and/or service.

Forms and Further Documentation

Please complete the following 2 forms:

Earthwatch Participation Form: Scuba

Travel Form


In addition to the above forms, you must supply copies of:
  • your dive certification of at least an open water diving qualification (i.e. PADI or SSI card)
  • your dive insurance card (e.g. DAN or equivalent)
  • your occupational diving medical (done within 12 months of expedition) by a registered SPUMS doctor
  • your chest x-ray results
  • an extract from your log book showing your very first dive as well as the 4 most recent dives (at least one of which must be within 6 months of expedition) Please bring full dive log on expedition with you.
  • other First Aid or Oxygen training
  • evidence of last annual service of dive regulator, which must be completed by a certified technician (only if bringing your own regulator)