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MAR20321

Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

Get a head start on your career in the maritime industry with this entry-level course. This qualification is the minimum required skills to become a coxswain of commercial vessels up to 12m long.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY On campus TAFE at School
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 03 Feb 2025 Duration: 4 terms View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Fee-Free TAFE

Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

$0
Concession

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

$895
Subsidised

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

$1,615
Full Fee

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

$4,505
TAFE at School Subsidised Fee

A government initiative covering some or all of course fees for eligible High School students also studying at TAFE. Learn more

$0
TAFE at School Full Fee

This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE.

$3,610
Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Embark upon your maritime career with this entry-level qualification. This course will give you the entry-level skills required kick start your career in a number of roles such as coxswain grade 1, linesperson or deckhand.

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 is the minimum requirement to operate and maintain auxiliary marine engine systems, plan and navigate a passage, and operate inboard and outboard motors. You'll learn a set of core competencies including survival at sea using a craft, and work health and safety requirements.

Successfully completing this course will allow you to establish a career on the seas. This qualification is a necessary component of your application to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority for a certificate of completion as a coxswain grade 1 near coastal.

What can I do?

  • Coxswain Grade 1
  • Deckhand/Linesperson

Course outcome:

MAR20321 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

Fee-Free TAFE

The career of your dreams is within reach thanks to Fee-Free TAFE. Follow your passion with over 70 industry-recognised courses to choose from.  With a range of skill sets, certificates and diplomas available, now’s the time to get job ready with Fee-Free TAFE. Learn more

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.

What you will study

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

You will be given up to 16 weeks to complete all MAR20321 Certificate II in Marine Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) assessments (tutorials are available).

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • 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
  • MARB027
    Perform basic servicing and maintenance of main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems
    UNIT CODE :
    MARB027
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to perform basic maintenance and servicing of main propulsion units and auxiliary systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Perform basic servicing and maintenance of main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARC037
    Operate inboard and outboard motors
    UNIT CODE :
    MARC037
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to operate inboard and outboard motors, and to diagnose basic faults.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Operate inboard and outboard motors

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARC038
    Operate main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems
    UNIT CODE :
    MARC038
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to safely operate the main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems on a vessel <12 m in length.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Operate main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems

  • 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
  • MARH013
    Plan and navigate a passage for a vessel up to 12 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARH013
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to conduct the passage of a vessel up to 12 metres within the 15nautical mile (nm) limit; it includes using the range of equipment found on a vessel to plan and safely conduct the passage.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Plan and navigate a passage for a vessel up to 12 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARI003
    Comply with regulations to ensure safe operation of a vessel up to 12 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARI003
    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 12 m in length.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Comply with regulations to ensure safe operation of a vessel up to 12 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARJ006
    Follow environmental work practices
    UNIT CODE :
    MARJ006
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to identify environmental issues and to apply organisational policies and procedures to minimise environmental threats.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Follow environmental work practices

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARK007
    Handle a vessel up to 12 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARK007
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to manoeuvre a vessel up to 12 metres in length. This includes the ability to berth, moor, anchor and manoeuvre a vessel during emergencies.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Handle a vessel up to 12 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARN008
    Apply seamanship skills aboard a vessel up to 12 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARN008
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to apply practical seamanship skills and techniques as part of work duties aboard a vessel up to12 m in length.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Apply seamanship skills aboard a vessel up to 12 metres
  • 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
02 Jun 2025
4 weeks
Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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. 

02 Jun 2025
DURATION

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

4 weeks
Workload

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

Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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
14 Jul 2025
4 weeks and 1 day
Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

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

4 weeks and 1 day
Workload

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

Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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
25 Aug 2025
4 weeks and 1 day
Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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. 

25 Aug 2025
DURATION

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

4 weeks and 1 day
Workload

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

Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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
07 Oct 2025
4 weeks and 1 day
Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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. 

07 Oct 2025
DURATION

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

4 weeks and 1 day
Workload

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

Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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
17 Nov 2025
4 weeks
Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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. 

17 Nov 2025
DURATION

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

4 weeks
Workload

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

Full time: Monday - Friday. 8:30am to 4:30pm plus First Aid
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $895

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

  • Subsidised: $1,615

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

  • Full fee: $4,505

    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
  • 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
Alexandra Hills
On Campus
03 Feb 2025
4 terms
Part time 1 day per week
  • TAFE at School Subsidised Fee: $0

    A government initiative covering some or all of course fees for eligible High School students also studying at TAFE. Learn more

  • TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,610

    This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE.

demo

Alexandra Hills

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. 

03 Feb 2025
DURATION

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

4 terms
Workload

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

Part time 1 day per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,610

    This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE.

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 II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) (MAR20321)

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Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

COURSE CODE: MAR20321
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

It is highly recommended that you:-

  • are aged 16 years or older by the course commencement date; and
  • have successfully completed Year 10 (or equivalent) with sound achievement in English and Mathematics; or
  • are of mature age

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 (supplied)
  • 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)
  • swimmers
  • a towel
  • sunscreen
  • hat

For fire drills you require:

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

You are also required to bring your own:

  • Navigation instruments (Parallel Ruler, Technical Drawing Compass and Dividers - these are required for chart work)
  • calculator (not a mobile phone)
  • 2B pencils
  • eraser
  • notebook
  • pens

Important information

The First Aid unit is not delivered during the four week course. For students requiring this unit, please contact Client Services on 1300 308 233 for course dates. A student who does not have the required First Aid unit at the completion of their course will not be eligible for their qualification. If you have already completed the First Aid unit you must provide a current academic transcript to show you have completed the required unit.

Maritime licensing requirements
Upon successful completion of MAR20321 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Grade 1 Near Coastal) and meeting all Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) requirements you may apply to AMSA for a Certificate of Competency Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal.
Please visit the AMSA website for information.

Licensing / Regulatory information
Please refer to MAR20321 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

You will be required to undertake a range of physical activities such as:

  • swimming in a group for a minimum of 50 metres
  • swimming in a life jacket for a minimum of 50 metres
  • towing with a life jacket for a minimum of 25 metres
  • remaining afloat without a life jacket for at least 5 minutes.
  • boarding a life raft unassisted while wearing a life jacket and assisting others to board
  • jumping safely from a height into the water while wearing a life jacket

Greater Brisbane
Practical training and assessment will be undertaken at the TAFE Qld 'Boat Shed' facility at Reserve Esplanade, Wellington Point - Waterfront.

Transition statement

This qualification has been replaced by MAR20324 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) as of 21 November 2024. A transition period applies to enable current students to complete their study. The transition period finishes on 20 November 2025. Students who have not fully completed this qualification prior to this date will be transitioned into the replacement qualification.

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