Port Authority of New South Wales on the lookout for Deck Cadets

Port Authority of New South Wales is on the lookout for new Deck Cadets to join its sponsored program which has seen seven cadets sail through since inception.

Since 2018, Port Authority’s Sponsored Deck Cadet program has supported seven cadets who are now sailing as deck officers in the Australian Merchant Navy or continuing to study at the Australian Maritime College.

Port Authority of New South Wales Chief Executive Officer Philip Holliday said the deck cadet program has been incredibly successful.

 “We are proud to offer ongoing opportunities to young people who want to pursue a seagoing career,” Mr Holliday said.

“The program demonstrates our commitment to bring more seafarers into the industry domestically and building Australia’s maritime skill base.

“It’s a valuable partnership with shipping companies which has led to them offering cadets placements on various merchant ships.”

The success of the program relies on the partnership between the Port Authority of New South Wales and shipping companies, including Searoad, Toll, Inco, ASP Ship Management, Teekay, Engage, Smit, Svitzer, Maersk offshore, Siem Offshore, Solstad, P&O Maritime & international companies Royal Caribbean International, Seatrade, Oldendorff & Wilhelmsen.

To further enhance program success, Port Authority has built important relationships with lecturers at the Australian Maritime College and the Shipping Qualification department at the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

Cadets gain valuable seagoing experience in maintenance mooring, bridge watch-keeping, navigation, passage planning, security, shipboard maintenance and operations as well as various shipboard management systems.

The training sees cadets complete a two-year course to help them gain the 18-months sea-time required by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to gain a Watchkeeping Certificate.

Mr Holliday said shipping companies, enjoy the idea of allowing cadets to sail on their ships as they can gauge the cadet's performance ahead of offering them a full-time cadetship.

Port Authority is committed to building a more diverse and Inclusive maritime industry and encourages women to apply for this program.

MEDIA: 02 9296 4672