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General Purpose Hand Courses in Sydney

A General Purpose Hand performs various duties on a marine vessel, assisting passengers, managing cargo, cleaning, and conducting safety checks.

    • -1.150 AI Exposure: Low

      This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.

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  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NSW
      • ACT
      • VIC
      • QLD
      • TAS
      • WA
      • NT
      • SA
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

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Common questions

In Australia, a full time General Purpose Hand generally earns $1,100 per week ($57,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this industry has decreased over recent years. There are currently 2,700 people employed as a General Purpose Hand, compared to 3,100 five years ago. General Purpose Hands may find work across regions of Australia where maritime activities are common.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If a career as a General Purpose Hand interests you, consider enrolling in a Certificate I in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal). You’ll learn about a range of topics including seamanship, survival and emergency response skills. A Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) may also be appropriate.

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Further reading

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3rd November 2021

All general purpose hand courses

General Purpose Hand careers

If you are looking to start a rewarding career in the maritime industry, consider enrolling in one of the many General Purpose Hand courses in Sydney. These courses are tailored for beginners and give you the foundational skills necessary to work effectively on vessels in coastal waters. With three beginner courses available, such as the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) and the Follow Vessel Security Procedures (Security Awareness Training), aspiring maritime professionals can confidently embark on their journey in this dynamic field.

The maritime landscape of Sydney offers ample opportunities for employment once you complete your training. Roles such as Deckhand, Coxswain, and Second Engineer are just a few examples of the positions available to those qualified as General Purpose Hands. By gaining your certification through courses like the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal), you can enhance your employability and stand out in a competitive market.

In addition to gaining core skills, students will also learn about the critical safety protocols and operational procedures that govern the maritime industry. Understanding these elements will not only make you a competent team member but will also prepare you for advanced roles such as Chief Cook or Chief Engineer. The Follow Vessel Security Procedures course, in particular, addresses vital security protocols essential in the modern maritime environment, making you a valuable asset to any crew.

Completing General Purpose Hand courses in Sydney positions you uniquely within the maritime industry, providing access to various exciting job roles. Whether you're aiming to become a Master Mariner, an Marine Engineer, or even a Boat Builder, a solid foundation as a General Purpose Hand is essential. Explore your options, gain the necessary qualifications, and embark on a fulfilling maritime career today by checking out the full range of courses available on our site.