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General Purpose Hand Courses in Victoria

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

    • -1.150 AI Exposure: Low

      This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.

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  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NSW
      • ACT
      • VIC
      • QLD
      • TAS
      • WA
      • NT
      • SA
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

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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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3rd November 2021

All general purpose hand courses

General Purpose Hand careers

For those seeking to embark on a rewarding career as a General Purpose Hand, there are numerous General Purpose Hand courses in Victoria available to equip you with the necessary skills and qualifications. These courses are designed to meet the needs of the dynamic job market in Australia and provide practical training that prepares individuals for various roles within the transport and logistics sector. Delivered by reputable Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and recognised industry providers, aspiring General Purpose Hands can choose from a variety of reputable training facilities scattered throughout Victoria.

The General Purpose Hand role is intrinsically linked to the broader field of Transport and Logistics courses, which encompass a range of skills essential for success in this industry. As a vital component of logistical operations, General Purpose Hands are involved in various tasks including loading and unloading goods, operating machinery, and ensuring workplace safety standards are adhered to. The demand for skilled professionals in the transport sector continues to grow, particularly in urban areas such as Melbourne and Geelong, making these courses more relevant than ever.

Moreover, pursuing a qualification as a General Purpose Hand offers valuable opportunities within specialty areas like Maritime operations. Understanding the maritime aspect of logistics can broaden your career prospects, allowing you to engage in roles that support shipping and maritime transport activities throughout Victoria's expansive coastal regions. This versatility can be particularly advantageous in gaining employment in both domestic and international logistics markets.

General Purpose Hand courses in Victoria is a strategic move for anyone looking to enter a field with continuous growth and diverse career paths. With training providers dedicated to delivering high-quality education and a comprehensive curriculum, you can feel confident in developing a solid foundation for your career in transport and logistics. Whether you are based in Melbourne or other regional areas, these courses will set you on a path towards a successful future.

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