Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
Occupational titles may include:
- Painter and Decorator.
This qualification is suitable for an Australian Apprenticeship pathway.
Completion of the general construction induction training program, specified in the Safe Work Australia model Code of Practice: Construction Work, is required by anyone carrying out construction work. Achievement of CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry meets this requirement.
At a glance
Study duration
52 weeks including scheduled breaks
Delivery mode
Face-to-face delivery across 10-week study periods
Campus
382 Lonsdale St, Melbourne 3000
Course Overview
| VET National Code | CPC30620 |
|---|---|
| CRICOS Course Code | 120229C |
| Duration | 52 weeks (40 weeks of class delivery and 12 weeks of break/holidays) |
| Volume of Learning |
Total Volume of Learning (hrs): 1350 Classroom Training & Assessment (hrs): 900 Self-Study (hrs): 450 |
| Tuition Fee | $20,000 |
| Enrolment Fee | $300 |
| Material Fee | $2,200 |
| Delivery Mode | The training program is delivered face-to-face for 20 hours per week, across a 10-week study period in each term. Each term consists of 10 weeks of scheduled classroom learning, excluding holiday breaks. |
Entry Requirements
Academic and age requirements
Age Requirement
All international students must be at least 18 years of age or above at the time of course commencement.
Academic Requirements
International students applying for this qualification either offshore or onshore will need satisfactory completion of the equivalent of Australian Year 10 or equivalent
English language requirements
To enrol into this course with AABT College, international students, applying either off-shore or on-shore, must satisfy one of the following requirements:
Direct entry / ELICOS pathways
- Either a minimum IELTS test score of 6 or equivalent for direct entry into a VET course; or
- IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent with an ELICOS course (up to 10 weeks) to be taken before the main VET course; or
- IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent with an ELICOS course (up to 20 weeks) to be taken before the main VET course.
Validity note: Results more than two years old are not acceptable.
Alternative English evidence options
- Option 1: Evidence that they have studied in English for at least five years in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, United Kingdom, or United States.
- Option 2: Evidence that, within two years of their application date, they have successfully completed in Australia and in the English language, either the senior secondary certificate of education or a substantial component of a course leading to a qualification from Australian Qualifications Framework at the Certificate IV or higher level, while they held a student visa.
Accepted test providers & score comparison
Please note that AABT College will also accept equivalent test results from the following specified English Language Tests: TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), and TOEFL PBT.
| English language test providers | Minimum test score | Minimum test score with up to 10 weeks ELICOS | Minimum test score with up to 20 weeks ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) | 6 | 5.5 | 5 |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (Certificate in Advanced English)** | 169 | 162 | 154 |
| TOEFL internet-based test (only accepted if test is taken on or before 25 July 2023)* | 64 | 46 | 35 |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) (only accepted if the test is taken on or before 6 August 2025) | 50 | 42 | 36 |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) (only accepted if the test is taken on or after 7 August 2025) | 47 | 39 | 31 |
* On 26 July 2023 the TOEFL internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) stopped offering English language tests for Australian visa purposes. A score for a TOEFL iBT test taken on or after 26 July 2023 will no longer satisfy the English language requirement for Student visa purposes. Only TOEFL iBT scores from a test taken on or before 25 July 2023 are accepted for Student visa purposes.
** From 12 February 2024, only results from the paper-based Cambridge C1 Advanced test (previously known as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)) will be accepted for Australian visa and migration purposes. Test scores for both C1 Advanced paper-based and computer-based tests, taken before 12 February 2024, within the specified validity period are still accepted.
Pre-training and learner readiness
Pre-Training Review
All students will undertake a pre-training review which identifies training needs, education background, and computing skills via an interview with an AABT enrolment officer. This also explores potential RPL opportunities and ensures readiness to complete the course.
Computer Literacy Requirement
Students must have basic computer skills including MS Word, PowerPoint, and internet research. They must be able to use email, work with PDFs, and access web platforms like Moodle.
Materials & Equipment Requirement
While AABT College provides access to computers and resources during class, students must bring a personal laptop (Windows 10 or higher), have a valid email address, and be reachable via phone or mail. All learners must have access to MS Office tools and communication platforms.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
RPL is available for each unit based on prior training, work experience or formal learning. Please consult your trainer or the support team to apply.
Credit Transfer
Credit Transfer can be granted for equivalent units from accredited qualifications. Please discuss during enrolment.
Language, Literacy, Numeracy & Digital (LLN&D)
All students are required to undertake a Language, Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital (LLN&D) test mapped to ACSF to identify if a student requires AABT College to provide any additional support. The expected LLN&D outcome is ACSF Level 2 for CPC30620 Certificate III in Painting and Decorating.
This is not an entry requirement but is designed to determine if a student has any specific Language, Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital support needs in the context of VET training and has a different purpose to the English entry requirements which are assessed prior to offering a student a place in a course.
How the results are used
- The results are provided to the trainer for review and support planning.
- Students who need additional LLN&D support can be identified early.
- The process helps support successful course participation and completion.
Unit Structure
To be awarded the CPC30620 Certificate III in Painting and Decorating learners must be deemed competent in 29 units of competency, as specified in the qualification rules, which include:
Core units
26 core unitsElective units
3 elective unitsCareer Opportunities
Graduates of this qualification may pursue careers in various accounting roles across multiple industries. Potential pathways include:
- Painter and Decorator
- Construction Painter
- Maintenance Painter
- Decorative Finisher
- Spray Painter
- Protective Coatings Applicator
Assessment Methods
This program is delivered under competency-based training. Students are required to demonstrate all the criteria for each unit of competency and are marked as “Competent” or “Not yet competent”.
Typical assessment methods include:
- Written Assignments & Theory Questions
- Case Studies & Role Plays
- Research Projects
- Practical Observations & Skills Demonstrations
Why Study This Course?
Gain essential accounting knowledge with hands-on skills designed to help you succeed in real workplaces. Discover the benefits:
- Industry-Relevant Skills: Learn what employers are looking for with real-world business knowledge that’s immediately applicable.
- Practical Training: Build confidence through simulated projects and activities that reflect everyday workplace challenges.
- Career Pathways: Open doors to future opportunities through hands-on experience and meaningful industry connections.
How to Apply
Review the prospectus and handbook
Read the student prospectus and student handbook to understand course structure, expectations, fees, and student policies before applying.
Provide your eligibility documents
Prepare academic records, English evidence, identification, and any supporting documents required for admissions assessment.
Complete pre-enrolment checks
Complete pre-training review and any learner readiness checks so the college can confirm suitability and support needs.
Submit your application
Complete the online application form and contact admissions if you need help with entry requirements or supporting documents.
Application support
To find out the methods of application, students can proceed to the online application form. If you have any questions regarding the application process or entry requirements, contact admissions@aabt.edu.au.
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1Review the student prospectus before applying.
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2Read the student handbook for policies, support, and expectations.
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3Use the admissions email for help with eligibility or documentation questions.