Qualification details

Release 1. This is the first release of this qualification in the MAR Maritime Training Package.

This qualification is suitable for people working in the maritime industry seeking an Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) certification in the capacity of:

• Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Operator.

IMO Regulatory framework 

International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) V/12 states that Contracting Governments planning and implementing VTS shall, wherever possible, follow the guidelines developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

IMO Resolution A.1158(32) Guidelines for VTS states:

• VTS personnel should only be considered competent when appropriately trained and qualified for their VTS duties. This includes, amongst other things, that personnel have satisfactorily completed generic VTS training approved by a competent authority.
• International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) publishes standards and associated recommendations, guidelines and model courses specifically related to the establishment and operation of VTS contribute to achieving worldwide harmonization of VTS.
• Contracting Governments are encouraged to take into account IALA standards and associated recommendations, guidelines and model courses.

Licensing/Regulatory Information 

• Legislative and regulatory requirements are applicable to this qualification:
• Marine Order 64 (Vessel Traffic Services)
• RTOs must:

• demonstrate compliance with IALA Standard 1050 – Training and Certification
• take into account IALA standards and associated recommendations, guidelines and model courses specifically related to the operation of VTS.

There are no entry requirements for this qualification.

Total number of units = 7 core units

Where a prerequisite is attached to a unit it is identified by the symbol ∟

Core units  

MARC044

Transmit and receive information by marine VHF radio

MARC063

Operate Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) equipment

∟ MARC044 Transmit and receive information by marine VHF radio

MARF051

Apply communication, coordination and interactions for VTS provision

MARF052

Apply nautical knowledge

MARF053

Apply personal attributes

MARF056

Provide Vessel Traffic Services

∟ MARC063 Operate Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) equipment

MARI005

Respond to emergency situations

This is a new qualification. No equivalent qualification.