The shipping industry plays a vital role in international trade and in the economic progress of most countries. Because of its international involvement and operations it is different in many respects from other industries. Because of this it offers interesting and diverse career opportunities.
Shipping operates in a keenly competitive international market and as the growth in international trade increases and ships to carry the trade are in greater demand, career prospects also improve.
Employment opportunities arise for bright young people with or without their higher school certificate or university degrees. On-the-job training is available for everyone to learn about the shipping industry. Positions also become available for graduates or those who already have professional qualifications. The shipping industry attracts a wide range of disciplines including accounting, IT, customer service, marketing, logistics and international business. In more specialised sectors of the industry, ship chartering and broking skills are often in demand.
In addition to the short courses offered by Shipping Australia, several Australian universities offer degrees with major studies in transport related fields. The Australian Maritime College offers certificate, diploma and degree and postgraduate level studies in business and transport, as well as vocational training in ship operations and stevedoring.