
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Perth Western Australia for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There are 4 courses available in Perth Western Australia 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.

Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master Unlimited)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Diploma of Maritime Operations (Watchkeeper Deck)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master less than 500 GT)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Key questions
How can I become a ship mate?
To become a ship mate in Perth, 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 Perth?
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 Perth area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 14km away from the center of Perth. 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 Perth
Are you looking to advance your maritime career? Enrol in one of the available Ship Mate courses in Perth designed for experienced learners. Options such as the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) and the Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master less than 500 GT) are offered by several training providers, including the reputable South Metropolitan TAFE. Completing these courses not only enhances your qualifications but also prepares you for a variety of maritime roles.
In addition to the advanced qualifications listed, Perth's maritime industry offers a range of job opportunities that might catch your interest, such as becoming a General Purpose Hand or a Sea Captain. These roles are integral to the smooth operation of vessels and can lead to further advancements, such as becoming a Chief Engineer or a Marine Engineer. The skills you gain from the available Ship Mate courses in Perth will give you a competitive edge in such positions.
With four key courses available in the Perth area, including the Diploma of Maritime Operations (Watchkeeper Deck) and the Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master Unlimited), you can choose the path that best aligns with your career goals. The training provided by institutions like South Metropolitan TAFE ensures that you receive high-quality education tailored to the needs of the maritime sector. Explore your options today and take a significant step towards a successful career on the waters with the Ship Mate courses in Perth.
Further reading


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14th October 2021