Certificates and qualifications

From 1 July 2009, the Department for Planning and Infrastructure became the Department of Planning and the Department of Transport. State Land Services and Pastoral Leases became part of the Department of Regional Development and Lands.

Certificates of competency

The certification of mariners is a statutory function administered by the Department. The Department has in place arrangements to provide examinations at various locations throughout the State for applicants wishing to obtain a certificate of competency.

Candidates are required to enrol with a Department accredited Registered Training Organization [RTO]. They must attend courses in order to attempt the main written examinations. Candidates must also meet the prerequisite eyesight, medical and service requirements, as well as complete certain statutory short courses. The Department plays an active role in the development of accredited courses through participation on various industry training panels and the registration of training providers.

Recreational Skipper's Ticket

The RST is a certificate of competency, not a licence. It is purely about demonstrating the minimum knowledge and practical skills needed to operate a boat safely on the water. It is based on a set of marine safety competencies that have been agreed nationally. The assessment of these competencies will be in two sections: theory and practical. Depending on your prior qualification you may be exempt from the assessment.

Want a Career in the Maritime Industry?

A career in the Maritime Industry is very broad and could include being the Captain of an International Ship, a Skipper of a Commercial Fishing Vessel, an Engineer keeping ships operational, a Naval Architect designing and building ships or an Hydrographer charting the sea floor.

For more information on any of these exciting career prospects please vist the website of the National Marine Safety Committee or download their Maritime Skills Brochure. (590kb pdf)

- WA Marine Act and regulations

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- Boating communities newsletter

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- Types of navigation aids

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- Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour

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