
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Victoria Victoria for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Victoria Victoria 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 Victoria, 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 Victoria?
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 Victoria area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 712km away from the center of Victoria. 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 Victoria
If you're considering a career as a Ship Mate in Victoria, you're in the right place. Victoria offers a range of quality Ship Mate courses in Victoria designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the maritime industry. One of the most sought-after qualifications is the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) MAR40320, which prepares experienced learners for diverse roles on the water. With such credentials, you can be confident about advancing your maritime career in this vibrant region of Australia.
In addition to traditional pathways, the maritime sector extends into various related job roles, including General Purpose Hand, Coxswain, and Second Engineer. Each position allows you to apply your skills in unique ways while contributing to the maritime community in Victoria. It's worth noting that these career opportunities can lead to even more advanced roles such as Sea Captain and Chief Engineer, thereby opening doors to extensive possibilities in the maritime workforce.
Moreover, if you're keen on expanding your expertise beyond being a Ship Mate, consider exploring courses in associated fields such as Transport and Logistics and Maritime. Understanding the larger framework of these industries will enhance your employability and career progression. Victoria is home to a dynamic maritime sector, providing ample opportunities for individuals dedicated to achieving success in this field. Take the first step today by enrolling in one of the Ship Mate courses in Victoria and chart your course towards a rewarding career on the waves.
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Further reading


How to start a career in Logistics
14th October 2021