To be eligible for this certificate, you must:
- hold a valid Australia certificate of competency from the Australian Marine Safety Authority that qualifies you to act as a master in relation to the size of vessel to which the pilotage exemption is intended apply, or have other approved experience and qualifications determined equivalent by the authority
- have served aboard a vessel with no less than one first mate, navigating the area to which the exemption applies for no less than 12 months immediately prior to application
- produce a medical certificate that meets the specified requirements
- pass any training or examinations required by the Authority.
In the case of a vessel registered in a port outside Australia, you must hold a valid certificate, competency or certificate of recognition that qualifies you to act as a master in relation to the size of vessel to which the pilotage exemption is intended to apply. This must be issued by an approved organisation, or have other approved experience and qualifications determined equivalent by the authority.
You will need to have piloted a vessel into the harbour within the last six months to maintain the exemption. If not, you will need to undergo an assessment.
