All careers

General Purpose Hand Courses in Sunbury

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 Sunbury?

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.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

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

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

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.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Further reading

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

Career spotlight: Hospitality professionals

17th September 2019

How to start a career in Warehousing

3rd November 2021

General Purpose Hand careers

If you're considering a career as a General Purpose Hand, you're in the right place. In Sunbury, we offer a range of General Purpose Hand courses designed for beginners, so whether you're just starting out or looking to gain new skills, there's something for you. Explore our selection of courses, including the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) and the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal). Both of these courses will provide you with the foundational skills necessary to thrive in the maritime industry.

One of the appealing aspects of pursuing General Purpose Hand courses in Sunbury is the potential career opportunities that await you. After completing your training, you can explore various job roles in the maritime field. Here in Sunbury, roles such as Coxswain, Second Engineer, and Chief Cook are just a few options that you may find stimulating and rewarding. Each role offers unique challenges and experiences, making the maritime industry a dynamic field to enter.

In addition to the practical skills you'll gain, our General Purpose Hand courses also emphasise the importance of following safety protocols, an essential aspect of working in the maritime environment. For example, the Follow Vessel Security Procedures (Security Awareness Training) course equips learners with the knowledge needed to ensure safety on board. This training is vital for anyone looking to become a valuable team member in the maritime sector.

When considering the broader career paths available, you might find interest in roles like Sea Captain, Chief Engineer, or even Marine Mechanic. Each of these professions draws on the skills and knowledge acquired through General Purpose Hand training, and they also offer opportunities for further advancement and specialisation within the maritime field.

As you embark on your journey towards becoming a General Purpose Hand, consider exploring related fields of study, such as Transport and Logistics courses or maritime-specific training options in Sunbury. These pathways can complement your General Purpose Hand course and expand your understanding of the maritime industry. With the right training and determination, a fulfilling career awaits you in the vibrant maritime sector right here in Sunbury!