VET

Diploma of Maritime Operations

Department of Training and Workforce Development

This qualification applies to people working in the maritime industry seeking an Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) certification in the capacity of: Master up to 100 metres Near CoastalMaster up to 500 gross tonnage (GT)Watchkeeper Deck Please note: RTO to insert on the

CareerInsights

Key highlights for VET pathways.

Deck WatchkeeperMaster (Class 3, 4, 5)Chief Mate

Duration

1 year (52 weeks)

Fees

AU$ 20,448 Annually

Salary

Strong earning potential

Course Description

This qualification applies to people working in the maritime industry seeking an Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) certification in the capacity of:

  • Master up to 100 metres Near Coastal
  • Master up to 500 gross tonnage (GT)
  • Watchkeeper Deck

Please note: RTO to insert on the testamur the job role and specialisation, if applicable, selected from the group choice below.

Duties and Functions

Duties and functions for which AMSA certificate of competency is required are listed in the MAR Maritime Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide.

Licensing/Regulatory Information

Legislative and regulatory requirements are applicable to this qualification:

This qualification is required to obtain an AMSA certificate of competency as a Master up to 100 metres Near Coastal as specified in Marine Order 505.

AMSA certification of competency will require:

  • MAR50320 Diploma of Maritime Operations (Master up to 100 metres Near Coastal) or completing an approved program of study that meets Master up to 100 metres course at Diploma level
  • certificates of competency as specified in Marine Order 505.
  • long range operator Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP) issued by ACMA (or higher qualification)
  • qualifying sea service as specified in Marine Order 505
  • meeting the medical requirements specified in Marine Order 505
  • having passed final AMSA assessment specified in Marine Order 505
  • meeting regulatory requirements as specified in Marine Order 505.

This qualification is required to obtain an AMSA certificate of competency as a Master of a commercial vessel up to 500 GT as specified in Marine Orders and STCW.

AMSA certification of competency will require:

  • MAR50320 Diploma of Maritime Operations (Masters up to 500 GT) or completing an approved program of study that meets regulations STCW A-II/1 and A-II/2
  • certificates of competency as specified in Marine Order 71
  • qualifying sea service as specified in Marine Order 71
  • completing STCW short courses as specified in Marine Order 71
  • meeting the medical fitness requirements specified in Marine Order 71
  • having passed final AMSA assessment
  • meeting regulatory requirements as specified in Marine Order 71.

This qualification is required to obtain an AMSA certificate of competency as a Watchkeeper Deck as specified in Marine Orders and STCW.

AMSA certification of competency will require:

  • MAR50320 Diploma of Maritime Operations (Watchkeeper Deck) or completing an approved program of study that meets regulation STCW A-II/I
  • certificates of competency as specified in Marine Order 71
  • qualifying sea service as specified in Marine Order 71
  • completing STCW short courses as specified in Marine Order 71
  • meeting the medical fitness requirements specified in Marine Order 71
  • having passed final AMSA assessment as specified in Marine Order 71
  • meeting regulatory requirements as specified in Marine Order 71.

Seafarers seeking certification should check requirements with AMSA.

Career Outcomes

Deck Watchkeeper

Deck Watchkeepers are responsible for safe navigation on board an ocean-going vessel. The role includes management of navigational watches, design and implementation of passage plans, and using sophisticated navigational instruments. Whilst in port, Deck Watchkeepers may also coordinate cargo operations.

Master (Class 3, 4, 5)

Masters (Class 3, 4 or 5) command coastal trading vessels of various sizes in designated near offshore waters. Skippers (Grade 1, 2 or 3) have similar responsibilities for various sizes of coastal fishing vessels. The role focuses on navigating and steering the vessel, crew management, ship/shore communications and the safe operation of the vessel at sea, at anchor and in port.

Chief Mate

Chief Mates are the second in command to the Master (Class 1 or 2). They are responsible for liaison between the Captain and crew, supervision of crew, navigation, safety and security on board ship, supervision of cargo loading and mooring/unmooring.

CRICOS Details

Diploma of Maritime Operations is listed on the official CRICOS register and delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development in 031799 - Maritime Engineering and Technology, n.e.c..

  • CRICOS course code: 105104H
  • Provider: Department of Training and Workforce Development
  • Course level: Diploma
  • Study level: VET
  • Field of education: 031799 - Maritime Engineering and Technology, n.e.c.
  • National qualification code: MAR50320
  • Dual qualification: No
  • Foundation studies: No
  • Work component: No
  • Course language: English
  • Duration: 1 year (52 weeks)
  • Locations: Fremantle, Beaconsfield, WA

This overview is compiled from official CRICOS register data. Confirm fees, duration, intake dates, and entry requirements directly with the provider before applying.