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.

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STUDY LOCATIONS North Queensland

WAYS TO STUDY On campus

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 08 Sep 2025 Duration: 6 weeks and 2 days View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$2,480

Subsidised

$3,420

Full Fee

$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

Choose your study location

On Campus

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
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
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. More Apply
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 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 weeks and 2 days The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. 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 Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

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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

Skills check

You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 4 in English, 4 in Maths and 4 in Digital Technology.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

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

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, available subsidies, 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

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

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

World class facilities

Training vessel

Core units

Great Barrier Reef International Marine College

Download Brochure

Ask a question

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

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

Entry requirements

Skills check

Selection criteria

Resources required

Important information

Transition statement

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Course disclaimer

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

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

Careers

Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal)

Careers

Shipboard Safety Skill Set