Coxswains Grade 3 Skill Set

The MARSS00048 Coxswains Grade 3 Skill Set provides learners with the skills and knowledge required to safely operate and command a commercial vessel up to 12 metres in length. The skill set covers vessel handling, seamanship, maritime safety, first aid, and compliance with relevant maritime regulations and operational procedures.

Successful completion of this skill set forms part of the requirements for certification by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) as a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal. Applicants must also satisfy all AMSA eligibility, medical, eyesight, assessment and application requirements that apply at the time of certification.

Upon successful application to AMSA and issue of a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate of Competency, the holder may be authorised to:

• Command and operate the engines of a commercial vessel less than 12 metres in length carrying no more than six persons, including the master and crew.
• Operate a vessel carrying passengers during daylight hours only.
• Operate a vessel fitted with:

• Command and operate a tender associated with a parent vessel, subject to the operational limits specified by AMSA, including distance and communication requirements.
• Operate within approved areas including:

• Command and operate a vessel less than 12 metres in length that is used solely for towing people.
• Operate a vessel used for towing people with propulsion power up to 500 kW.
• Conduct towing operations only within waters approved as a water ski area by the relevant State or Territory authority.
• Conduct towing operations during daylight hours only.

The privileges, limitations and conditions applicable to a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate of Competency are prescribed by Marine Order 505 (Certificates of Competency – National Law) 2022 and may be amended from time to time. Students should refer to current AMSA publications and Marine Order 505 for complete details of certificate privileges, restrictions and operational limits.

This skill set is delivered over a 12-month enrolment period through a blended learning model consisting of online learning, assessment activities and face-to-face practical training. Students are required to complete online learning and formative assessment activities prior to attending the face-to-face workshop. Ongoing support is available from Paradigm Training Group trainers and assessors throughout the duration of the course.

The face-to-face component is delivered over two days and includes both classroom-based activities and practical vessel operations training.

Please note: Students who require additional training or assessment opportunities may attend further workshops within their enrolment period at no additional cost. Additional attendance may be recommended by a trainer and assessor where further evidence is required to demonstrate competency.

Face-to-Face Training and Assessment
The face-to-face workshop includes training and assessment activities conducted in the following environments:

• Classroom training facilities
• On board Paradigm Training Group training vessels ranging from approximately 5 to 18 metres in length 
• Practical vessel handling and seamanship activities

Online Learning Activities
Online learning activities may include:

• Reading learner resources
• Reviewing presentations, videos and learning materials
• Completing formative assessment activities
• Completing knowledge-based assessment tasks
• Communicating with trainers and assessors via phone, email, video conferencing or online learning platforms

Students must have access to:

• A computer or tablet
• Reliable internet access
• An active email address

• Appropriate clothing suitable for marine environments
• Enclosed, non-slip footwear
• Any additional personal protective equipment (PPE) specified by the trainer

These items are not included in the course fee and must be supplied by the student.

Upon successful completion of all requirements, students will receive a Statement of Attainment for the MARSS00048 Coxswains Grade 3 Skill Set. To achieve this skill set, students must be assessed as competent in all required units of competency. Students who are not yet able to demonstrate competency will be provided with additional opportunities for training and reassessment in accordance with Paradigm Training Group's assessment policies and procedures.

After successfully completing the MARSS00048 Coxswains Grade 3 Skill Set, learners may choose to undertake further maritime training, including:

• MAR10424 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal)
• MAR20324 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

• Credit Transfer: Students who have previously completed one or more units included within this skill set may be eligible for Credit Transfer. Evidence must be provided in the form of an AQF certification document, Statement of Attainment, Qualification Certificate, or authenticated USI transcript issued by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
• Recognition of Prior Learning: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) recognises skills and knowledge gained through work experience, previous study, life experience, or informal learning.
  Students who believe they already possess the skills and knowledge required for one or more units may apply for RPL. Applicants must provide valid, sufficient, current and authentic evidence to support their application.

• HLTAID011 Provide First Aid
• MARI003 Comply with regulations to ensure safe operation of a vessel up to 12 metres
• MARK007 Handle a vessel up to 12 metres
• MARN008 Apply seamanship skills aboard a vessel up to 12 metres

Successful completion of the MARSS00048 Coxswains Grade 3 Skill Set does not automatically result in the issue of an AMSA Certificate of Competency.

AMSA is responsible for assessing eligibility and issuing Certificates of Competency under Marine Order 505.

At the time of application for a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate of Competency, applicants must satisfy all AMSA requirements that apply at that time. These requirements may include:

• Minimum age requirements
• Approved eligibility pathways
• Completion of required training and assessment
• Practical assessment requirements
• Eyesight requirements
• Medical fitness requirements
• Sea service requirements (where applicable)
• Submission of required AMSA application forms and supporting evidence

Eligibility requirements are subject to change. Applicants should refer to the current AMSA website and Marine Order 505 for the most up-to-date certification requirements.

Course Fee: $850.00

The full course fee is payable upon enrolment and prior to access being granted to the online learning platform unless alternative arrangements have been approved by Paradigm Training Group.

Paradigm Training Group is committed to supporting students throughout their training and assessment journey. 

Support services may include:

• Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
• Reasonable adjustment services
• Access to learning resources
• Additional trainer and assessor support
• Guidance regarding course requirements and assessment processes
• Referral to external support services where appropriate

• Section 3.3 – Support Services for Students
• Section 5.1 – Student Rights and Wellbeing