Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying (CRICOS course code 103834A) is a Certificate III delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 48 weeks (~11 months). This nationally recognised qualification (CPC33020) prepares you for work in the residential and commercial construction sectors as a bricklayer or blocklayer. Melbourne Polytechnic is a government-owned TAFE institution (CRICOS 00724G) with over 100 years of vocational education experience. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it meets strict Australian Government standards for international student welfare under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses in Australia, this course stands out for its hands-on training and strong industry linkages. HeadStart Academy presents this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision about studying in Australia.
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This qualification falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Building (0403) and Bricklaying and Stonemasonry (040309) at AQF Level 3. Students learn practical skills in bricklaying and blocklaying techniques, including laying bricks, blocks, and pavers, mixing mortar, cutting materials, and constructing walls, arches, and corners. The course also covers reading and interpreting plans, workplace safety, using hand and power tools, and working at heights. Graduates typically find employment as bricklayers, blocklayers, or construction labourers on building sites across Australia. The training combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical workshops, preparing you for the Certificate III trade qualification required for many roles in the building industry.
The course is scheduled for 48 weeks (~11 months) as registered on CRICOS. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students are expected to attend full-time, with a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on training in Melbourne Polytechnic's specialised workshops. The full-time commitment is typical for Certificate III vocational courses, allowing you to complete the qualification quickly and enter the workforce. Language of instruction is English, so you'll need to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language test.
Tuition fee: A$19,600 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$19,600. Please note: This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For the most current fees, always confirm directly with Melbourne Polytechnic at www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au. Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, food, and transport, depending on your lifestyle. You should budget for these additional expenses when planning your studies. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the Department of Home Affairs for financial capacity requirements.
For Certificate III level, applicants typically need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent in their home country. English language proficiency is required: an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) is a common entry requirement for this level of study. Some providers may also require a relevant pre-vocational course or work experience. Melbourne Polytechnic will assess each application individually. There is no foundation studies component attached to this course. To see the exact entry requirements, visit the Melbourne Polytechnic website or contact their admissions team. Always ensure you meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for your student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain Australian work experience and supplement your living costs. Work rights are subject to your visa conditions, so always check your visa grant letter.
The course is delivered at two Melbourne Polytechnic campuses: Epping Campus (Epping, VIC) and Heidelberg Campus (Heidelberg West, VIC). Epping is a northern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 25 km from the CBD, with good access via public transport (train and bus) and major roads. Heidelberg is a north-eastern suburb, about 15 km from the CBD, also well-serviced by trains and buses. Melbourne is home to over 400,000 international students and has more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Weekly living costs in Melbourne: shared accommodation A$250–350, groceries A$80–120, transport A$40–50. Both campuses offer modern facilities, libraries, and student support services.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and dependents. As of 2025, the student visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). You must also maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and meet attendance and academic progress requirements. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions, unlimited during scheduled breaks. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered providers, ensuring tuition assurance and refund policies. For personal immigration advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a top destination for international students, offering a vibrant multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a strong construction industry. With a booming building sector, bricklayers are in high demand, particularly in Victoria. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney but higher than regional areas. Consider your preferences: if you enjoy a bustling city with diverse amenities and job opportunities, Melbourne is a great choice. HeadStart Academy lists hundreds of CRICOS-registered courses in Melbourne – explore more options in Victoria on our /study/certificate-iii/vic page.
Ready to take the first step? Head to Melbourne Polytechnic's website to apply for this course, or explore more CRICOS-registered bricklaying courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.