How do I become a Merchant Mariner?

How do you become a Merchant Seaman in Australia?

• I've just recently started looking into this, I come from a long line of Merchant Mariners, from both Australia and overseas, and I myself would like to become one. The problem I have is that can't seem to find any educational or training information. So here it is: How long does it take to become a Merhcant Seaman in Australia? What is the availability of Jobs? Most importantly who do I contact to get the ball rolling? Thanks for any assistance anyone can render me, it'll be greatly appreciated and remember Merchant Seaman in Australia not any other country. Cheers, Z

• Answer:

  You are right...very hard to find. I tried all kinds of names and phrases ( they do not use "merchant marine" like other countries), and eventually stumbled onto the Australian Maritime Workers Union and the Australian Maritime College....which you need to contact. See below.