anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 231213Skill level 1Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Ship's Master

A Ship's Master commands and navigates commercial vessels under Australian Maritime Safety Authority regulations, responsible for the safety of the vessel, crew, cargo, and passengers at sea.

Indicative salary range
$100,000 - $200,000 (2025 indicative)

Full-time AUD, 2025 indicative. Wide bands reflect variation by employer, experience, and location.

Labour market demand

Moderate demand in Australian coastal shipping, offshore, and research sectors.

Occupation list membership

Which Department of Home Affairs skilled lists this occupation currently appears on.

  • ROLRegional Occupation List

    Occupations eligible for regional visas such as Subclass 491 and 494.

Assessing authority

The body that assesses skills for migration purposes for this occupation.

  • AMS
    AMSA

Visa pathways

Australian visa subclasses for which this occupation is currently eligible.

State nominations

States and territories that currently nominate this occupation for skilled migration.

CodeState / TerritoryDetails
NSWNew South WalesView nomination →
WAWestern AustraliaView nomination →
SASouth AustraliaView nomination →
NTNorthern TerritoryView nomination →

Key duties

  • Command the vessel and take responsibility for safe navigation
  • Manage deck crew and oversee watchkeeping operations
  • Ensure compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, and AMSA requirements
  • Manage cargo operations, port activities, and voyage planning

Skills required

  • Master Mariner navigation and seamanship
  • Ship's management and crew leadership
  • International maritime law and STCW compliance
  • Emergency and crisis management at sea

Typical qualifications pathway

Master Mariner Certificate of Competency (Class 1) from AMSA; STCW certification. AMSA assesses qualifications.

Visa & occupation list information

Listed on ROL, eligible for subclass 491. Coastal trading and offshore industries may provide regional employment For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.

anzsco.com.au is information-only. For personalised advice on your situation, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.

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Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: