
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Canberra Australian Capital Territory for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Canberra Australian Capital Territory for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Key questions
How can I become a ship mate?
To become a ship mate in Canberra, you may want to consider completing the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal). This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.
Are there training providers in Canberra?
You can train to become a ship mate by completing a qualification with TAFE NSW. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.
What study modes are available?
There are several campuses within the Canberra area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 246km away from the center of Canberra. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.
Related occupations
Explore related occupations in the ship mate sector.
General Purpose Hand
A General Purpose Hand performs various duties on a marine vessel, assisting passengers, managing cargo, cleaning, and conducting safety checks.
Coxswain
A Coxswain steers small vessels, navigates courses, communicates with crew, and prioritises safety during journeys and emergencies.
Second Engineer
A Second Engineer repairs and maintains equipment on a vessel, handling mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems while ensuring smooth operations.
Chief Cook
A Chief Cook prepares meals on a vessel, ensuring ingredient availability, hygiene, and special dietary needs while managing tasks efficiently.
Sea Captain
A Sea Captain navigates and manages a vessel, ensuring safety and leadership while transporting passengers or cargo and communicating with the crew.
Chief Engineer
A Chief Engineer oversees machinery maintenance, designs equipment, supervises teams, and requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
Marine Mechanic
A Marine Mechanic repairs boats and maritime equipment, specialising in engines and systems while demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Marine Engineer
A Marine Engineer maintains and repairs shipping equipment, working on various vessel systems and ensuring effective operation through servicing and problem-solving.
Boat Builder
A Boat Builder constructs and repairs maritime vessels, customising designs to client specifications and specialising in areas like interiors or masts.
Shipwright
A Shipwright builds and repairs ships, requiring strong technical skills, attention to detail, and teamwork to meet customer needs.
Assistant Shipwright
An Assistant Shipwright aids in constructing and maintaining vessels, following instructions and working in teams while ensuring attention to detail.
Engineer Watchkeeper
An Engineer Watchkeeper ensures the effective operation and maintenance of ship machinery, requiring technical skills, attention to detail, and clear communication.
Marine Surveyor
A Marine Surveyor inspects vessels for safety compliance, prepares reports, and conducts scheduled checks, requiring attention to detail, organisation, and strong communication skills.
Master Mariner
A Master Mariner is responsible for navigating and operating a large ship, ensuring the safety of crew and passengers while complying with regulations and communicating effectively with authorities.
Watchkeeper Deck Officer
A Watchkeeper Deck Officer oversees navigation, supervises cargo loading, liaises with the captain, manages equipment, and communicates with crew and passengers.
Deckhand
A Deckhand performs cleaning, maintenance, cargo handling, mooring, and safety patrols on a ship, requiring physical fitness, teamwork, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
Ship Master
A Ship Master oversees vessel operations, navigation, crew coordination, and regulation compliance, requiring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Naval Architect
A Naval Architect designs ships and marine vessels, developing innovative solutions, meeting client needs, and adapting skills for varied projects.
Marine Trimmer
A Marine Trimmer fabricates and fits durable coverings, seating and fittings for boats, ensuring comfort, safety and style.
Marine Fabricator
A Marine Fabricator builds and repairs metal parts for boats, cutting and welding marine-grade materials to ensure safety and strength.
More about ship mate courses in Canberra
For those looking to embark on a maritime career, the Ship Mate courses in Canberra provide an excellent opportunity to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. As a Ship Mate, you will play a vital role on various vessels, assisting with navigation, operations, and safety. With the rich maritime culture in Canberra and its surrounding regions, this course is an ideal stepping stone for individuals eager to pursue a fulfilling career at sea.
The Ship Mate qualifications open doors to several related job roles, enhancing your career prospects within the maritime industry. Graduates often explore opportunities such as becoming a General Purpose Hand or even progressing towards more advanced roles like a Coxswain or Second Engineer. Each path offers unique responsibilities and the chance to build a rewarding career on the water, all while being based in the vibrant capital of Australia.
In addition to the technical skills gained, Ship Mate courses in Canberra often inspire individuals to aim for higher positions such as Chief Cook or Sea Captain. The breadth of knowledge acquired during the training equips students to take on diverse challenges in the marine environment. Additionally, with opportunities to specialise further into roles like Chief Engineer or Marine Mechanic, there’s significant potential for career advancement.
The demand for skilled maritime professionals remains strong, particularly in key coastal regions. Completing Ship Mate courses in Canberra can pave the way to an exciting career, not only within local waters but internationally as well. If your interests align with marine operations, becoming a Marine Engineer or a Boat Builder might also capture your enthusiasm. Dive into the world of maritime education and take your first step towards a vibrant career on the water today! Visit the courses available at Ship Mate courses in Canberra for more information.
Further reading


How to start a career in Logistics
14th October 2021