Safe Crew

By law, any person working as crew on a commercial vessel on NSW waterways must hold a Certificate of Competency. This ensures that people operating commercial vessels are competent and medically fit for their assigned tasks and areas of operation.

Maritime issues the following Certificates of Competency:

• Coxswain;
• Master Class 5;
• Mate Class 4;
• Master Class 4;
• Master Class 3;
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 3;
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 2;
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 1;
• Engineer Class 3;
• Skipper Grade 3;
• Skipper Grade 2;
• Skipper Grade 1;
• Master of vehicular ferry in chains; and
• General purpose hand.

Holders of certificates of competency as master, mate or coxswain are exempt from the requirement to hold a general boat driving licence or PWC licence.  This exemption does not apply to engineering certificates, general purpose hands or masters of vehicular ferry in chains.

Additional links:

• How do I apply for a Certificate of Competency
• How do I apply for a General Purpose Hand certificate
• How do I Revalidate a Certificate of Competency
• How do I apply for recognition of a Certificate issued by an interstate authority
• How do I apply for Recognition of a Yachtmaster Certificate
• Further information on careers in the maritime industry