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MAR40320

Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal)

Take the next step in your career and enhance your expertise as a maritime seafarer. This course will equip you with specialised skills and knowledge to be a Master on vessels up to 45 metres in length.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 09 Jun 2025 Duration: 6 weeks and 1 day View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Concession

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

$2,480
Subsidised

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

$3,420
Full Fee

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

$6,590
Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Take the next step in your career and enhance your expertise as a maritime seafarer. This qualification will equip you with specialised skills and knowledge to sail as Ship Master on vessels up to 45 metres in length.This course is a necessary component of your application to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to gain certification as defined by Marine order 505.

Expanding on your developed skill set, this course will equip you with specialised skills to effectively master a vessel up to 45 metres. You will learn to forecast the weather and predict ocean conditions, plan and navigate a passage, manage a propulsion unit, manage a small crew, and act as a chief mate. You will also expand your skills and knowledge to effectively implement safe work practices.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to apply to the national regulator to obtain a Certificate of Competence as a Master less than 45 metres near coastal.

What can I do?

  • Ship's Master
  • Master less than 45 metres Near Coastal, as defined by Marine Order 505

Course outcome:

MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal)

World class facilities

While studying at TAFE Queensland you will have access to an extensive range of world class maritime training resources including a full mission bridge simulator, an emergency response training simulator, chart room, and radio room.

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.

  • 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
  • MARA022
    Manage loading, discharging and stowing of cargo
    UNIT CODE :
    MARA022
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to manage the loading, discharging and stowage of cargo to prevent damage or deterioration of cargo and to deliver it, as far as is possible, in as good a condition and order as it was when received onboard.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage loading, discharging and stowing of cargo

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARA024
    Manage vessel stability
    UNIT CODE :
    MARA024
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to manage the dynamic factors affecting the stability of a vessel less than 80 metres.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage vessel stability

  • 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
  • MARB046
    Plan and supervise routine maintenance on a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARB046
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to implement a maintenance program for a vessel less than 80 metres.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Plan and supervise routine maintenance on a vessel up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARC047
    Manage a propulsion unit using appropriate engine systems and support services
    UNIT CODE :
    MARC047
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to operate a propulsion unit using appropriate engine systems and support services according to technical specifications and safe operating limits.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage a propulsion unit using appropriate engine systems and support services

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARC048
    Monitor and manage vessel operations
    UNIT CODE :
    MARC048
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to plan and oversee activities associated with the regulatory and operational requirements for the continued performance and safety of a coastal vessel.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Monitor and manage vessel operations

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARC051
    Operate deck machinery and steering gear on a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARC051
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to operate steering gear and deck machinery on a vessel less than 80 metres.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Operate deck machinery and steering gear 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
  • MARG007
    Manage a small crew
    UNIT CODE :
    MARG007
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to lead and develop small crews.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage a small crew

  • 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
  • MARH019
    Forecast weather and oceanographic conditions
    UNIT CODE :
    MARH019
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to forecast weather and oceanographic conditions during a near coastal voyage and to take appropriate actions based on predictions.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Forecast weather and oceanographic conditions

  • 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
  • MARK009
    Manoeuvre a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARK009
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to manoeuvre a vessel less than 80 metres.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manoeuvre a vessel up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • MARN013
    Manage seaworthiness of a vessel up to 80 metres
    UNIT CODE :
    MARN013
    Unit description :
    This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to manage vessel in a seaworthy condition for all stages of a voyage or operation being undertaken.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage seaworthiness of a vessel up to 80 metres

  • UNIT CODE
  • RIIWHS202E
    Enter and work in confined spaces
    UNIT CODE :
    RIIWHS202E
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to enter and work in confined spaces in the resources and infrastructure industries.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Enter and work in confined spaces
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
09 Jun 2025
6 weeks and 1 day
Full Time. Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
  • Concession: $2,480

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

  • Subsidised: $3,420

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

  • Full fee: $6,590

    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. 

09 Jun 2025
DURATION

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

6 weeks and 1 day
Workload

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

Full Time. Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $2,480

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

  • Subsidised: $3,420

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

  • Full fee: $6,590

    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
08 Sep 2025
6 weeks and 2 days
Full Time. Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
  • Concession: $2,480

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

  • Subsidised: $3,420

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

  • Full fee: $6,590

    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. 

08 Sep 2025
DURATION

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

6 weeks and 2 days
Workload

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

Full Time. Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $2,480

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

  • Subsidised: $3,420

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

  • Full fee: $6,590

    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 IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal) (MAR40320)

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Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal)

COURSE CODE: MAR40320
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

To be eligible for an AMSA Master less than 45 metres near coastal, you must have the required Sea Time whilst holding an AMSA Issued Master 24m licence.

Participants who have acquired the appropriate Sea Time, and achieved competency in the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal) course may apply to sit the final oral examination (administered by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for a Certificate of Competency as Master less than 45 metres near coastal).

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.

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)
  • 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, navigation instruments for chart work (technical drawing compass, dividers and parallel ruler), calculator (not your mobile phone), 2B pencils and eraser.

Important information

To obtain a full MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal), you need to complete 22 core units of competency. 17 of these 22 units of competency are delivered as part of the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45m Near Coastal) course over 6 consecutive weeks. In addition, you must complete the 4 units of the MARSS00008 Shipboard Safety Skill Set in order to gain the full qualification.

The MARSS00008 Shipboard Safety Skill Set is completed separately either before or after completion of the 6 week MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal).

You will be given up to 6 months to complete all assessments and tutorials are available.

Delivery of the HLTAID011 unit will be completed outside of this block delivery.  Students may attend scheduled classes offered by TAFE Queensland or may apply for credit transfer if they have completed the unit through another Australian Registered Training Organisation.

Maritime licensing requirements
Upon successful completion of MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal) and meeting all Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) requirements you may apply to AMSA for a Certificate of Competency Master less than 45 metres near coastal. To obtain a Certificate of Competency from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), please visit the AMSA website for information. 

Licensing / Regulatory information
Please refer to MAR40320 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres Near Coastal).

Transition statement

This qualification has been replaced by MAR40324 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Master up to 45 metres 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.

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