
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Rockingham Western Australia for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There are 4 courses available in Rockingham 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 Rockingham, 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 Rockingham?
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 Rockingham area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 25km away from the center of Rockingham. 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 Rockingham
If you're seeking to embark on a rewarding career within the maritime industry, Ship Mate courses in Rockingham provide an excellent opportunity to gain the necessary skills and qualifications. Located in the picturesque coastal region of Rockingham, WA 6168, these courses equip learners with the expertise to navigate the vast ocean waters. On this page, you'll find a variety of training options tailored for experienced learners looking to enhance their maritime credentials.
Among the most respected training providers in the area is South Metropolitan TAFE, known for delivering high-quality maritime education. The course offerings include the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal), perfect for those aiming for a competent position at sea. Advanced learners can also consider the Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master less than 500 GT) or the Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master Unlimited) for even greater expertise.
Each of these Ship Mate courses in Rockingham is designed to ensure that you are well-prepared for various maritime roles. After completing your studies, you might be interested in pursuing a position as a General Purpose Hand or a Coxswain. Alternatively, more experienced individuals may set their sights on roles such as Second Engineer or Chief Engineer within maritime operations.
The range of options available means that there's something for everyone – whether you want to work as a Sea Captain or dive into specialised roles such as Marine Mechanic or Boat Builder. With each course catering to different expertise levels, you can find the right fit for your career aspirations within the maritime field.
To kickstart your journey, explore the selection of Ship Mate courses in Rockingham that can launch your career on the high seas. Whether it's an entry-level qualification or an advanced diploma you seek, Rockingham's local training providers like South Metropolitan TAFE are ready to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you achieve your professional goals within this thriving industry.
Further reading


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