What do I need to do?

To get this certificate, you need to:

Provide proof of medical fitness

For initial issue of a Certificate of proficiency you are required to obtain a Certificate of medical fitness in Australia.

The medical examination can be organised by contacting Sonic HealthPlus. We strongly recommend that you complete the medical examination before you commence training to ensure that you are medically fit for a seagoing career.

To book a medical examination, you can:

• Call toll free: 1300 763 822
• Email: seafarermedicals@sonichealthplus.com.au

Read more about medical fitness.

Complete training courses

You will need to complete the following training courses:

• a Steering certificate gained by undertaking at least 10 hours on vessels greater than or equal to 24 metres in length. 4 hours of this experience must be while the vessel is being conned.
• an approved program of study which includes completion of the approved Training and Guidance (TAGS) program of the appropriate discipline
• Basic safety training, including security awareness training.

These courses must be completed with an approved training organisation.

All of the certificates and training you complete and provide evidence of must comply with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

Many existing seafarers have considerable experience on various ship types and in varying operating environments. The operating environment, voyage length, and type of vessels may make tasks difficult to complete. The seafarer may demonstrate competence by discussion and role play. The on board supervisor may sign off these tasks using a variety of assessment tools to ensure the seafarer has the underpinning knowledge and required skills.

Provide evidence of sea service

You will need to have completed one of the following sea service options:

• at least 2 months sea service in the deck department
• at least 6 months sea service in the deck department.

Seafarers with two months qualifying sea service must:

• Complete approved shore based vocational training.
• Hold a current Certificate of Safety Training (STCW Reg VI/1) with a security awareness endorsement (STCW Code A-VI/6 para. 4).
• Hold a valid Certificate of medical fitness.
• While on board a vessel/s complete the approved TAGS Book. Obtain statement of satisfactory completion of the TAGS book from the AMSA approved college.
• Provide evidence of at least two months qualifying sea service by letters from employer/s. Letters signed masters or chief engineers are not acceptable.
• Seafarers wanting the endorsement to form part of a navigational watch must also hold a steering certificate.

Seafarers with six months qualifying sea service must:

• Hold a current Certificate of Safety Training (STCW Reg VI/1) with a security awareness endorsement (STCW Code A-VI/6 para. 4).
• Hold a valid Certificate of Medical Fitness.
• While on board a vessel/s complete the approved TAGS Book. Obtain statement of satisfactory completion of the TAGS book from the AMSA approved college.
• Provide evidence of at least six months qualifying sea service by original letters from employer/s. Letters signed masters or chief engineers are not acceptable.
• Seafarers wanting the endorsement to form part of a navigational watch must also hold a steering certificate.

All submitted sea service must be documented qualifying sea service. Read more about sea service.

How to apply

You will need to lodge a formal application using the Seafarer form 419 to be assessed towards the requirements for a Navigational watch rating.

Lodge from within Australia

You will need to fill out the Seafarer form 419, attach all required supporting documents and lodge it at a participating Australia Post retail outlet.

You will need to pay the fees for your application at the post office at the time of lodgement.

Lodge from overseas

You will need to fill out the Seafarer form 419, attach all required supporting documents including a colour passport-style photograph and send the paperwork to us by email to STCW.applications@amsa.gov.au When we receive your email we will let you know how to pay the fee for your application via AMSA online portal.