
Courses for beginners
There are 3 courses available in Ballarat Victoria for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.


Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Follow Vessel Security Procedures (Security Awareness Training)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Courses for experienced learners
There are no courses available in Ballarat Victoria for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Key questions
How can I become a general purpose hand?
To become a general purpose hand in Ballarat, you may want to consider completing the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal). This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.
Are there training providers in Ballarat?
You can train to become a general purpose hand by completing a qualification with TAFE NSW or UQ Skills. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.
What study modes are available?
There are several campuses within the Ballarat area that provide general purpose hand training. The closest campus is 777km away from the center of Ballarat. You can also study a general purpose hand course through online, traineeship learning. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.
Related occupations
Explore related occupations in the general purpose hand sector.
Coxswain
A Coxswain steers small vessels, navigates courses, communicates with crew, and prioritises safety during journeys and emergencies.
Second Engineer
A Second Engineer repairs and maintains equipment on a vessel, handling mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems while ensuring smooth operations.
Chief Cook
A Chief Cook prepares meals on a vessel, ensuring ingredient availability, hygiene, and special dietary needs while managing tasks efficiently.
Sea Captain
A Sea Captain navigates and manages a vessel, ensuring safety and leadership while transporting passengers or cargo and communicating with the crew.
Chief Engineer
A Chief Engineer oversees machinery maintenance, designs equipment, supervises teams, and requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
Marine Mechanic
A Marine Mechanic repairs boats and maritime equipment, specialising in engines and systems while demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Marine Engineer
A Marine Engineer maintains and repairs shipping equipment, working on various vessel systems and ensuring effective operation through servicing and problem-solving.
Boat Builder
A Boat Builder constructs and repairs maritime vessels, customising designs to client specifications and specialising in areas like interiors or masts.
Shipwright
A Shipwright builds and repairs ships, requiring strong technical skills, attention to detail, and teamwork to meet customer needs.
Assistant Shipwright
An Assistant Shipwright aids in constructing and maintaining vessels, following instructions and working in teams while ensuring attention to detail.
Engineer Watchkeeper
An Engineer Watchkeeper ensures the effective operation and maintenance of ship machinery, requiring technical skills, attention to detail, and clear communication.
Marine Surveyor
A Marine Surveyor inspects vessels for safety compliance, prepares reports, and conducts scheduled checks, requiring attention to detail, organisation, and strong communication skills.
Master Mariner
A Master Mariner is responsible for navigating and operating a large ship, ensuring the safety of crew and passengers while complying with regulations and communicating effectively with authorities.
Watchkeeper Deck Officer
A Watchkeeper Deck Officer oversees navigation, supervises cargo loading, liaises with the captain, manages equipment, and communicates with crew and passengers.
Deckhand
A Deckhand performs cleaning, maintenance, cargo handling, mooring, and safety patrols on a ship, requiring physical fitness, teamwork, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
Ship Mate
A Ship Mate assists with navigation, supervises crew, manages cargo, and ensures safety aboard vessels, requiring strong awareness and problem-solving skills.
Ship Master
A Ship Master oversees vessel operations, navigation, crew coordination, and regulation compliance, requiring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Naval Architect
A Naval Architect designs ships and marine vessels, developing innovative solutions, meeting client needs, and adapting skills for varied projects.
More about general purpose hand courses in Ballarat
Are you considering pursuing a career as a General Purpose Hand in Ballarat? You’re in the right place! Courses.com.au offers a comprehensive selection of General Purpose Hand courses in Ballarat, designed for beginners to help kick-start your journey in the maritime industry. With three courses available, learners with no prior experience can easily gain the necessary qualifications and skills required to thrive in this exciting field.
One of the most sought-after qualifications is the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal), which equips you with essential knowledge about maritime operations. Additionally, the Follow Vessel Security Procedures (Security Awareness Training) course focuses on vital security protocols critical in today’s maritime environment. Lastly, the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) prepares you for technical roles on vessels, making it another excellent option for aspiring General Purpose Hands.
As you explore your options, it’s beneficial to understand the related career pathways that becoming a General Purpose Hand can lead to in the vibrant maritime sector of Ballarat. Potential job roles include Coxswain, Second Engineer, and Chief Cook, each offering unique responsibilities and rewards. More experienced roles such as Sea Captain and Chief Engineer are also excellent opportunities to consider as you advance in your career.
The training you receive through these General Purpose Hand courses in Ballarat will also allow you to delve into specialisations like Marine Mechanic, Marine Engineer, and Boat Builder. Each of these roles plays a crucial part in maintaining and operating vessels that travel the waters surrounding Ballarat, providing numerous job opportunities locally.
Embarking on your journey as a General Purpose Hand is an exciting and rewarding career choice. You can also explore various related fields, such as Transport and Logistics courses or specialise in the Maritime sector. With the right qualifications and training in Ballarat, your dream job in the maritime industry is well within reach. Enrol today in one of the General Purpose Hand courses in Ballarat and take the first step towards a fulfilling future on the water.
Further reading


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17th September 2019