
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Wollongong New South Wales for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Wollongong New South Wales 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 Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?
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 Wollongong area that provide ship mate training. The closest campus is 67km away from the center of Wollongong. 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 Wollongong
For those considering a rewarding career in maritime operations, exploring Ship Mate courses in Wollongong is an excellent starting point. With only one course currently available, the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 35 metres Near Coastal) MAR40320 provides experienced learners with the qualifications necessary to advance in the maritime industry. This vocational education and training (VET) course nurtures your skills and prepares you for a variety of roles on the sea, enabling you to thrive in the dynamic environment of maritime operations.
Wollongong, a coastal city known for its maritime activities, offers a unique backdrop for your studies. The local maritime industry is thriving, and completing the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations can open doors to various job opportunities. Upon completing this qualification, you may also want to explore related career paths such as becoming a General Purpose Hand, Coxswain, or Sea Captain. Each of these roles plays a vital part in the maritime sector, allowing you to follow your passion for the sea.
In addition to the diverse job roles available, students interested in related fields can further enhance their career prospects through courses in Transport and Logistics or specialised maritime study. Engaging in these fields complements the skills acquired in Ship Mate courses in Wollongong, equipping you for roles like Chief Engineer, Marine Surveyor, or Shipwright. The variety of career paths ensures that you can find a role that suits your interests and skills within the maritime industry.
Ultimately, choosing one of the Ship Mate courses in Wollongong is an empowering step towards achieving your goals in the maritime sector. With the support of accredited training providers and the opportunities available in the vibrant Wollongong region, you can embark on a fulfilling career at sea. Remember to also consider diverse job roles such as Marine Engineer, Master Mariner, or Boat Builder as viable options for leveraging your skills obtained through this qualification.
Further reading


How to start a career in Logistics
14th October 2021