Ship Mate Courses
A Ship Mate assists with navigation, supervises crew, manages cargo, and ensures safety aboard vessels, requiring strong awareness and problem-solving skills.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Ship Mate
Get qualified to work as a Ship Mate with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
MAR40320
Estimated fee
From $11,490
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
Command commercial vessels up to 35 metres long with the MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal). This nationally recognised training course is endorsed by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. Your training is carried out at an advanced maritime training facility in a 6-week intensive. The course covers: vessel navigation and manoeuvring, crew management, forecasting weather and oceanographic conditions, cargo storage and discharge, shipboard safety and su...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $11,490
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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MAR60220
Become a Master Mariner with the MAR60220 Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master Unlimited). This intense qualification prepares you for certification with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) as a Master (Unlimited). The course covers: managing stability and maintenance of very large vessels, managing vessel compliance and security, personal safety, preventing fires on board, survival at sea, managing vessel abandonment, managing cargo and crew, manoeuvring a vessel larger than 500 gr...
Career opportunities
MAR50320
The MAR50320 Diploma of Maritime Operations is a nationally recognised diploma, accredited with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). This qualification is suited to Ship Masters, Mates, and Watchkeeper Deck Officers on a range of different sized vessels. Course competencies include: planning and conducting a passage, determining vessel position, using radar and bridge equipment, manoeuvring the ship, navigational watch responsibilities and safety, using visual signalling to transmit and recei...
Career opportunities
MAR50320
Duration
8 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
Get your AMSA Ship Master (less than 500 GT) with the MAR50320 Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master less than 500 GT). This nationally recognised is fully accredited with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). Competencies include: vessel manoeuvring in all conditions, managing vessel and crew, operating survival craft and lifesaving appliances, managing medical care and first aid on the vessel, vessel compliance and safety, using GMDSS equipment, operating radar and bridge equipment, CDIS ope...
Career opportunities
Duration
8 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Ship Mate.
Common questions
How much does a Ship Mate earn?
In Australia, a full time Ship Mate generally earns $1,680 per week ($87,360 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.
What are the job opportunities for a Ship Mate?
This industry has experienced a decrease in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 620 people working as a Ship Mate in Australia, compared to 760 five years ago. A Ship Mate may find work in regions of Australia where maritime activities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Ship Mate?
If you’re interested in a career as a Ship Mate, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Maritime Operations. This course covers a range of topics including planning and conducting a passage, determining vessel position, using radar and bridge equipment, manoeuvring the ship, navigational watch responsibilities and safety, using visual signalling to transmit and receive information, monitoring the loading and unloading of cargo and leadership skills.
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More information
A Ship Mate is part of the deck crew on a ship or other type of marine vessel. You might be involved with navigation and direction or you might take charge of loading and unloading cargo. A Ship Mate might supervise passenger activities and give instructions to other crew members. You’ll ensure equipment is working effectively and address any issues of concern.
A Ship Mate should have excellent situational awareness and be able to respond calmly during challenging situations. It’s important you can communicate clearly and work as part of a team. A Ship Mate should have good observational skills and be an excellent problem solver. You’ll need to be good at multitasking and be able to manage your time well.
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