Marine Order 505 Review

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Marine Order 505 Review

This project reviewed the Maritime Training Package to better align products to regulation known as Marine Order 505 (Certificates of competency – National Law) for domestic commercial vessels.

Anticipated completion 14 November 2024

Project Completion

Skills Ministers endorsed the revised Maritime Training Package on 14 November 2024, aligning maritime training products with Marine Order 505 (Certificates of Competency – National Law) and supporting the updated licensing framework for domestic commercial vessels.

The project responded to changes introduced under Marine Order 505, including five new certificates of competency and the replacement of several legacy certifications. Key outcomes included the development of a new Skill Set for the Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal licence, a new Unit of Competency for commanding and managing voyages on vessels up to 45 metres, consolidation of Certificate III qualifications, and updates to qualifications, Skill Sets and Units of Competency to meet current regulatory and licensing requirements. Electronic Charting System (ECS) requirements were also incorporated into relevant training products.

What did this mean for industry?

The revised training products are now fully aligned with Marine Order 505 and International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines, providing a nationally consistent framework for maritime education and training.

These changes strengthen qualification pathways, improve workforce mobility, support regulatory compliance, and contribute to safer operations across Australia’s domestic commercial vessel sector. The new Coxswain Grade 3 Skill Set also creates new entry and progression opportunities for maritime workers.

Implementation

To support implementation, the Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) was updated with mapping information, implementation advice, and resources for trainers, assessors, registered training organisations (RTOs) and industry. The endorsed training products are now available on training.gov.au.