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General Purpose Hand Courses in Darwin

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 Darwin?

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

If you are looking to kickstart your maritime career, exploring General Purpose Hand courses in Darwin is an excellent first step. These courses provide the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in various maritime roles. Once you complete your training, you might also consider advancing towards related positions such as a Coxswain or even a Sea Captain, as they are integral within the maritime industry.

Darwin, a vibrant hub for maritime activities, offers numerous training providers that are either Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) or recognised by industry bodies. This ensures that the General Purpose Hand courses in Darwin meet the highest standards of education and practical training. During your studies, you will also gain insights into other fulfilling career paths related to the maritime sector, including roles like Chief Cook, Marine Engineer, and Marine Mechanic.

In addition to the immediate benefits of becoming a General Purpose Hand, engaging in further training could lead you to specialised roles such as Chief Engineer or Boat Builder. With Darwin's strategic location and bustling maritime industry, the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow. Enrolling in General Purpose Hand courses in Darwin not only opens doors to these exceptional job opportunities but also allows you to contribute actively to the local maritime community.