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MAR30921

Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal)

Embark upon a maritime career with this entry level qualification. This course is perfect for an anyone who wants to upgrade their qualification and grow their career as marine transport professionals.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Apr 2025 Duration: 7 weeks View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Concession

Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

$2,725
Subsidised

There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

$3,375
Full Fee

This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

$6,410
Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Set yourself on the path to success with this entry-level maritime course. Learn the basic skills needed to be competitive in various roles including marina hand or master (of vessels up to 24 metres). According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the marine transport sector is expected to experience growth in the coming years. They anticipate there will be around 2,000 job openings for marine transport professionals over the next five years with around 30 per cent of these roles located in Queensland. 

This course covers a number of core skills needed to successfully gain certification from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. You'll learn to survive at sea using a survival craft, slip or dock a vessel, maintain hull on a vessel up to 80 metres, and how to use wheelhouse equipment for safe navigation. You will be led by industry professionals who will guide you through your course and enable you to successfully reach your goals.

Successfully completing this course will allow you to seek registration with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and gain employment in roles including marina hand, master (inland waters) or master (of vessels up to 24 metres).

What can I do?

  • Master (Vessels up to 24 metres)
  • Marina Hand, Master (Inland Waters)

Course outcome:

MAR30921 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal)

Training Vessel

Our 20 metre commercially registered vessel “MV Gwendoline May” is configured to meet the practical requirements of relevant training programs in the maritime industry giving you access to real-world training.

Technology

When you choose to study this qualification at TAFE Queensland you’ll have access to an extensive range of state-of-the-art training resources, including full mission bridge simulator and the emergency response training simulator.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core units listed below.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • BSBFLM303
    Contribute to effective workplace relationships
    UNIT CODE :
    BSBFLM303
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to gather information and maintain effective relationships and networks, with particular regard to communication and representation.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Contribute to effective workplace relationships

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTAID011
    Provide First Aid
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTAID011
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a casualty in line with first aid guidelines determined by the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and other Australian national peak clinical bodies. The unit applies to all persons who may be required to provide a first aid response in a range of situations, including community and workplace settings.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Provide First Aid

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARB029
    Perform routine maintenance on a vessel up to 24 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARB029
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to perform routine remedial, preventative and survey deck maintenance. It includes basic deck maintenance, cleaning tasks, marine painting, and servicing deck machinery and systems on commercial vessels up to 24 m.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Perform routine maintenance on a vessel up to 24 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARB030
    Slip or dock a vessel and maintain hull on a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARB030
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to slip or dock a vessel of up to 80 m and carry out all required maintenance procedures to manage hull deterioration and maintain the watertight integrity of the vessel.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Slip or dock a vessel and maintain hull on a vessel up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARF027
    Apply basic survival skills in the event of vessel abandonment
    UNIT CODE :
    MARF027
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to apply basic survival skills in the event of vessel abandonment. This unit applies to people working in the maritime industry in a deck and or engine room capacity on vessels up to 80 m and with propulsion power <3000 kW within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). They could be working independently or as part of a vessel crew.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Apply basic survival skills in the event of vessel abandonment

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARF028
    Follow procedures to minimise and fight fires on board a vessel
    UNIT CODE :
    MARF028
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to apply defined policies and procedures when carrying out fire minimisation procedures and fighting a fire on board a vessel. This unit applies to people working in the maritime industry in a deck and or engine room capacity on vessels up to 80 m and with propulsion power <3000 kW within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). They could be working independently or as part of a vessel crew.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Follow procedures to minimise and fight fires on board a vessel

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARF029
    Meet work health and safety requirements
    UNIT CODE :
    MARF029
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to follow defined work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS) policies and procedures to ensure the safety of self, others on board and the vessel. This unit applies to people working in the maritime industry in a deck and or engine room capacity on vessels up to 80 m and with propulsion power <3000 kW in waters to the outer limits of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). They could be working independently or as part of a vessel crew.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Meet work health and safety requirements

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARF030
    Survive at sea using survival craft
    UNIT CODE :
    MARF030
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to survive at sea using survival craft. This unit applies to people working in the maritime industry in a deck and or engine room capacity on vessels up to 80 m and with propulsion power <3000 kW within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). They could be working independently or as part of a vessel crew.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Survive at sea using survival craft

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARH015
    Manage and maintain a navigational watch on board vessels up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARH015
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to apply the recommended principles to be observed in managing and maintaining a navigational watch on board vessels up to 80 m.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage and maintain a navigational watch on board vessels up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARH016
    Plan and navigate a passage for a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARH016
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to plan and safely conduct a passage on a vessel up to 80 m, including obtaining and interpreting weather information and position fixing.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Plan and navigate a passage for a vessel up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARH017
    Use wheelhouse equipment for safe navigation
    UNIT CODE :
    MARH017
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to maintain safe navigation of a commercial vessel through the use of radar and other equipment used for the navigation of a vessel.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Use wheelhouse equipment for safe navigation

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARI004
    Observe regulations to ensure safe operation of a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARI004
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to apply current Commonwealth, state and territory Acts, legislation, codes of practice and other publications pertaining to the safe operation of a vessel up to 80 m.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Observe regulations to ensure safe operation of a vessel up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARJ007
    Monitor environmental management on a vessel
    UNIT CODE :
    MARJ007
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to monitor the implementation of environmental management policies and procedures on a vessel up to 80 m to ensure compliance with marine regulations and environmental considerations.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Monitor environmental management on a vessel

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARK008
    Manoeuvre a vessel up to 24 metres within near coastal waters
    UNIT CODE :
    MARK008
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to manoeuvre a vessel of up to 24 m in length within Near Coastal (NC) waters.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manoeuvre a vessel up to 24 metres within near coastal waters

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARN009
    Perform seamanship operations on board a vessel up to 24 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARN009
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to apply practical seamanship skills and techniques as part of operations on board a vessel up to 24 m.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Perform seamanship operations on board a vessel up to 24 metres
Ways to study
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Great Barrier Reef International Marine College
On Campus
28 Apr 2025
7 weeks
Full time Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
  • Concession: $2,725

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $3,375

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $6,410

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Great Barrier Reef International Marine College

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Apr 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

7 weeks
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $2,725

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $3,375

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $6,410

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Great Barrier Reef International Marine College
On Campus
28 Jul 2025
7 weeks
Full time Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
  • Concession: $2,725

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $3,375

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $6,410

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Great Barrier Reef International Marine College

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

7 weeks
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $2,725

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $3,375

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $6,410

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Great Barrier Reef International Marine College
On Campus
27 Oct 2025
7 weeks
Full time Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
  • Concession: $2,725

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $3,375

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $6,410

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Great Barrier Reef International Marine College

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

27 Oct 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

7 weeks
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $2,725

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $3,375

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $6,410

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal) (MAR30921)

Ask a question

Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal)

COURSE CODE: MAR30921
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

There are no official entry requirements for this course, however students are advised to please note that AMSA has Commercial Sea Time and other requirements that are to met to gain a Master 24m licence. It is highly recommended that students have previous Commercial Vessel experience before attending the course.

Please visit Master less than 24 metres near coastal (amsa.gov.au) for Master 24m Licence Requirements.

It is also recommended that students be 16 years of age, have a minimum of Year 10 with a sound achievement in English and Mathematics or the equivalent, or gain mature age entry. To obtain a full MAR30921 certificate, students need to complete 15 core subjects of competency. 10 of these 15 units of competency are delivered as part of the Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal) course over 6 consecutive weeks. In addition, students must complete the 4 units of the MARSS00008 Shipboard Safety Skill Set and HLTAID011 Provide First Aid in order to gain the full MAR30921 qualification. The MARSS00008 Shipboard Safety Skill Set and HLTAID011 Provide First Aid, are completed separately either before or after completion of the 6 week MAR30921 course. Students are given up to 6 months to complete all MAR30921 assessments (tutorials are available).

On successful completion of the Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal) qualification, the student will also have completed the AMSA Mandated Practical Assessment. They then may request an Interim Certificate of Competency once they have completed the Certificate of Competency Application Form 426 ensuring that the declaration section is signed. This is also subject to the student meeting the AMSA criteria requirements as per Master less than 24 metres near coastal (amsa.gov.au).  

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks after enrolment, during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network. It is also recommended that you have access to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority Guidance Notes.

You are responsible for meeting the minimum occupational health and safety requirements in practical classes. 
For Elements of Shipboard Safety this includes having access to and wearing appropriate attire including:

  • non synthetic/flammable clothing
  • safety glasses
  • enclosed shoes

You will not be permitted to attend any classes without appropriate footwear.

For wet drills you also require:

  • clothes to get wet in (similar to work clothes, but no wet suits)
  • a second set of clothes (to change into)
  • a towel
  • sunscreen
  • hat

For fire drills you require:

  • a long sleeve shirt
  • long pants
  • sunglasses
  • enclosed shoes

You are also required to bring a notebook, pens, compass set, parallel rules, calculator, 2B pencils and eraser.

Important information

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more