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General Purpose Hand Courses in Brisbane

A General Purpose Hand performs various duties on a marine vessel, assisting passengers, managing cargo, cleaning, and conducting safety checks.

How do I become a General Purpose Hand in Brisbane?

Get qualified to work as a General Purpose Hand with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time General Purpose Hand generally earns $1,100 per week ($57,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this industry has decreased over recent years. There are currently 2,700 people employed as a General Purpose Hand, compared to 3,100 five years ago. General Purpose Hands may find work across regions of Australia where maritime activities are common.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If a career as a General Purpose Hand interests you, consider enrolling in a Certificate I in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal). You’ll learn about a range of topics including seamanship, survival and emergency response skills. A Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) may also be appropriate.

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Further reading

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General Purpose Hand careers

Are you considering a career in the maritime industry? The General Purpose Hand courses in Brisbane offer an excellent starting point for individuals looking to embark on this exciting journey. With three beginner courses available, you'll have the opportunity to develop essential skills in maritime operations, ensuring you're well-prepared for various roles on board vessels.

One of the standout options is the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal). This certification not only introduces you to the fundamental aspects of boat handling and navigation, but it also sets you up for roles such as a Coxswain, where you can take charge of the vessel’s operation. In addition, the Follow Vessel Security Procedures (Security Awareness Training) course is crucial for understanding safety and security measures, while the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) provides insight into the technical side of marine engineering.

As a budding General Purpose Hand, understanding related job roles can expand your career opportunities. You might aspire to become a Coxswain or a Second Engineer, either of which would leverage the skills gained through these courses. Additionally, other roles such as Chief Cook and Sea Captain rely heavily on the foundational training you receive as a General Purpose Hand.

The maritime industry in Brisbane is thriving, making it an ideal location for those interested in pursuing a career in this field. By enrolling in the relevant Maritime courses, you'll gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that are highly valued in job roles like Chief Engineer or Marine Mechanic. This hands-on experience is crucial for standing out in the competitive job market.

Start your journey in the maritime industry today with the General Purpose Hand courses in Brisbane. Equip yourself with the skills required to excel in various roles, from Boat Builder to Shipwright, and explore the diverse career paths that await you. With the right training and ambition, a fulfilling maritime career is just around the corner.