Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
Gain the hands-on skills needed to prepare, protect, and enhance both interior and exterior surfaces through a Certificate III in Painting and Decorating in Australia. This nationally recognised trade qualification equips you to work as a Painter and Decorator in residential, commercial, and industrial construction environments. Students complete 29 competency units; typically 26 core and 3 electives, covering essential techniques such as surface preparation, applying paint by brush, roller, and spray, decorative finishes, wallpapering, colour matching, and safely handling hazardous materials like lead paint and asbestos.
Entry is generally open (no prerequisites), and successful completion prepares you for licensing or registration where required; such as applying for a painter’s license in various Australian states. This qualification supports an Australian Apprenticeship pathway and includes the required general construction induction training (white card), such as unit CPCCWHS1001.
What You'll Study
Students gain both practical and theoretical knowledge across a wide range of painting and decorating tasks, including:
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Preparing and repairing surfaces for painting
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Applying paint using brush, roller, and spray methods
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Creating decorative finishes and textures
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Wallpapering and wall coverings
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Colour matching and design fundamentals
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Handling hazardous materials safely, including lead-based paints
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Understanding workplace safety and environmental requirements
How the Course is Structured
Certificate III in Carpentry typically runs 1-2 years full-time, depending on your study mode and provider. Delivery methods include:
The course is delivered through a mix of classroom learning and workshop-based training, often combined with industry placements or apprenticeships.
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Duration: Approximately 1 year full-time (or part-time equivalent)
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Units: Around 29 units of competency (26 core + 3 electives)
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Delivery: Offered by TAFEs and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) across Australia
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Pathways: Meets requirements for painter licensing in several states and can lead to further studies such as Certificate IV in Building and Construction
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Certificate III in Carpentry are prepared for a variety of roles, including:
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Carpenter
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Joiner
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Formworker
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Site Supervisor
Potential pathways include further study in Certificate IV or Diploma in Building & Construction, apprenticeships, or employment in residential, commercial, and heritage projects.
Real Earning's in Today's Market
Carpentry is among the top trades in Australia with steady demand and competitive salaries.
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Entry-level carpenters often earn AUD $64,000 - $70,000 per year.
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Mid-level carpenters average AUD $80,000 - $90,000 per year.
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Experienced or specialised carpenters, such as formworkers or heritage restoration carpenters, can earn AUD $100,000 - $120,000+ annually, especially in major cities or remote projects where demand is high.
According to industry reports, carpentry remains a shortage occupation across multiple states, ensuring strong employability and long-term career security.
Skills Assessment & Migration Pathway
For those aiming at permanent residency pathways, carpentry is a highly relevant trade:
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ANZSCO Code: 331212 (Carpenter)
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Skills Assessment Authority: Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)
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Visa Options: Certificate III in Carpentry is a recognised qualification for applying towards visas such as the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa, the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, and the Subclass 491 Skilled Regional Visa.
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Points Test: Carpentry is frequently listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making it eligible for both state and regional sponsorships.
International graduates who complete Certificate III in Carpentry may pursue further studies, gain work experience, and progress to permanent residency under skilled migration programs.
Course Fee & Duration
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Course Duration: 92 weeks (approximately 2 years, including holidays)
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Tuition Fee: International students can expect fees ranging from AUD $20,000 – $26,000 for the full program, depending on the institution and location.
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Intakes: Multiple intakes throughout the year
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Additional Costs: Toolkits, protective equipment, and resource fees may apply.
Industry Snapshot
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The construction industry employs over 1.3 million people in Australia, making it one of the country’s largest workforces.
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Carpentry accounts for a significant share of this employment, particularly in housing construction, renovations, and commercial projects.
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Growth is projected to remain strong due to Australia’s population expansion, urban development, and infrastructure investment.
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Carpentry is consistently included on the National Skills Priority List, highlighting its long-term demand.
This combination of workforce demand and migration relevance makes carpentry a future-proof career path in Australia.
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