Independent course guide · References checked 30 September 2026. Confirm current standards and your eligibility with an authorised instructor.
Where this course fits
Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent is required. Current accepted first aid, CPR and emergency oxygen qualifications must be included or provided as specified.
Ask whether the first-aid and oxygen requirements are included in the quoted package.
NAUI Rescue Scuba Diver: learning scope
Entry & preparation
Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent is required. Current accepted first aid, CPR and emergency oxygen qualifications must be included or provided as specified.
What you study
Develop risk management, assistance, transport and rescue skills for diving emergencies.
- Self and buddy assistance
- Surface and depth rescue skills
- Boat and shore scenarios
Qualification boundary
Rescue Scuba Diver does not confer professional leadership or unlimited rescue authority.
A visual summary of this independent course guide. Confirm current prerequisites and standards with the agency and instructor.
What the training focuses on
| Learning area | Discuss before booking |
|---|---|
| Self and buddy assistance | How will this be taught and assessed? |
| Surface and depth rescue skills | What preparation and equipment should I bring? |
| Boat and shore scenarios | What happens if I need more practice? |
Understand the qualification’s scope
Rescue Scuba Diver does not confer professional leadership or unlimited rescue authority.
Frequently asked questions
Must first aid and oxygen be completed separately?
They may be included or met through accepted current qualifications. Confirm the arrangement with your instructor.
Is this useful outside the professional route?
Yes. Prevention and assistance skills are relevant to recreational teams.
Does certification guarantee I can rescue in every environment?
No. Conditions, skills, equipment and rescuer safety govern any response.
What should an Australian course quote include?
Ask for an itemised total covering learning materials, practical sessions, certification, equipment, boat or site fees and any extra training. Availability, duration and prices are centre-specific.
Where do I confirm the latest prerequisites?
Use the official NAUI information linked below and ask the authorised instructor to check your certification, age, experience, medical and first-aid records. A similar course name from another agency is not automatic equivalence.
Official course information
NAUI: Rescue Scuba Diver ↗Agency standards determine certification requirements. This guide does not reproduce the full standard or imply agency endorsement.
Related next steps
Check prerequisites and readiness before choosing another course.