The MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations is the ideal starting point for anyone looking to begin a career in the maritime industry. This nationally recognised qualification provides the foundational skills and knowledge required to work safely and effectively as a General Purpose Hand (GPH) on board commercial vessels in Australian waters.
Throughout the course, you’ll gain hands-on experience and practical training in essential maritime operations, including safety procedures, deck duties, vessel maintenance, and communication. You’ll also learn how to work as part of a crew, assist with routine engine and deck tasks, and respond to emergencies at sea.
Whether you’re looking to work on ferries, fishing boats, workboats, or other commercial vessels, this course equips you with the skills and certification needed to enter the maritime workforce and pursue further qualifications like Coxswain Grade 2 or Marine Engine Driver Grade 3.
There are no formal entry requirements for MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal). However, learners are generally expected to be at least 16 years of age, have basic language, literacy, numeracy and, digital skills, and be physically capable of completing practical training requirements.
This course is ideal for
Successful completion of this course opens the door to a variety of entry-level roles in the maritime industry. With your General Purpose Hand (GPH) certification, you may find employment as a:
This qualification also provides a strong foundation for further training and progression in the industry, such as:
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
To be awarded the MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations, a total of 8 core units must be completed to achieve the full certificate. There is no selection of elective units.
The units are designed to equip learners with entry-level competencies needed to work as a General Purpose Hand (GPH) on a vessel operating in Australian waters.
The qualification comprises of the following units:
Assessment for this qualification is conducted through a combination of practical tasks and written assessments, allowing learners to demonstrate both their hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge.
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be awarded the MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand).
This nationally recognised qualification is issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and is designed to meet the requirements for individuals seeking to work as a General Purpose Hand (GPH) on commercial vessels operating in Australian waters.
In addition to the certificate, you may also be eligible to apply to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for a General Purpose Hand Certificate of Competency, which is required to work legally in GPH roles on commercial vessels.
All learners have the right to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for any course or unit in which they are currently enrolled. However, RPL applications will only be accepted for units of competency or qualifications that fall within Serco Defence RTO’s scope of registration.
While learners may submit an RPL application at any time, it is recommended that applications be made prior to the commencement of training. RPL assessments will be conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence and may only be granted for entire units of competency. For further details, please refer to the Learner Handbook.
The course comprises approximately 150 nominal hours which is typically completed within 4–6 weeks (including practical components) from commencement.
Please note that due to the specialised content and training requirements, all maritime courses are currently only available at the following locations:
Ready to begin your maritime journey? Register your interest and we’ll let you know when this course is on offer.
If you have any questions related to the MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations please contact us on our enquiry form here.
