
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in South Australia South Australia for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in South Australia South 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.

Key questions
How can I become a ship mate?
To become a ship mate in South Australia, 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 South Australia?
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 South Australia area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 1161km away from the center of South Australia. 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 South Australia
Embarking on a career as a Ship Mate can be an exciting opportunity, especially for those residing in South Australia. With practical training and a comprehensive curriculum, Ship Mate courses in South Australia prepare individuals for the responsibilities and challenges they may face at sea. These courses are offered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) that comply with industry standards, ensuring quality education for aspiring maritime professionals.
As a Ship Mate, you'll develop crucial skills that are applicable in various maritime job roles. Post-training, you may consider advancing your career to positions such as a General Purpose Hand, where teamwork is essential, or a Coxswain who navigates vessels. Both roles can provide invaluable experience and opportunities for growth within the maritime industry.
Studying Ship Mate courses in South Australia also opens doors to other exciting maritime careers such as a Second Engineer, maintaining the onboard machinery, or a Chief Cook, responsible for meal preparation. Each of these roles is fundamental to the seamless operation of seafaring vessels and may lead to further qualifications in marine professions.
Completing a Ship Mate course can also pave the way for positions such as a Sea Captain or a Chief Engineer. Both roles require extensive maritime knowledge and leadership skills that you can cultivate through practical experience gained in your initial training. South Australia, with its extensive coastline and vibrant shipping industry, provides an ideal backdrop for those looking to make their mark in these demanding yet rewarding careers.
Furthermore, pursuing Marine Mechanic or Marine Engineer pathways can further enhance your career in the maritime sector, offering hands-on experience with vessel systems and operations. Additionally, exploring opportunities such as a Boat Builder can be an exciting venture for those interested in design and craftsmanship. By enrolling in Ship Mate courses in South Australia, you're taking a significant step towards a fulfilling maritime career equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this dynamic industry.
Further reading


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14th October 2021