Its distribution overlaps a number of other common sillaginids, with careful observation of anatomical features occasionally needed to distinguish between species.

It reaches sexual maturity at three years of age, and spawns multiple times between December and April.

[3] The species was first examined and named Sillago bassensis by Georges Cuvier in 1829 from the holotype specimen collected in Western Port of Victoria, which lies on the Bass Strait.

[5] The southern school whiting has a very similar profile to other members of the genus Sillago, with a slightly compressed, elongate body tapering toward the terminal mouth.

The species is predominantly found over sand substrate in variable wave and tidal activity zones, often in protected bays.

Throughout its life cycle, S. bassensis usually has some dietary overlap with co-occurring sillaginids, however the diet is still varied enough not to have any negative effects.

The presence of oocytes that range widely in size and development, as well as post-ovulatory follicles, suggest that the species is a multiple spawner.

[15] The larvae of the species have a functional mouth and gut by 2.3 mm in length, with pigmented eyes and a gas bladder.

[16] Juveniles migrate inshore to their nursery areas in surf zones and tidal flats, where they remain until reaching around 50 mm in length.

[17] Being that the southern school whiting is quite prevalent along the south western coastline of Australia, it is taken in minor quantities by trawlers working deep, sandy waters of this region.

The juveniles are often taken from the shore along beaches of variable wave action while fishing for species such as S. schomburgkii.

Southern school whiting are taken on a variety of baits, with their natural prey such as marine worms, molluscs, prawns and sardines often used.