Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 104653J) is a Certificate III delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 1 year 10 months (~96 weeks). This course prepares international students for a career in painting, decorating, and sign writing, covering surface preparation, colour selection, and application techniques. Delivered at TAFE NSW campuses in Granville and Maitland, New South Wales, the program includes a substantial work component of 704 hours to build practical skills. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00591E), it meets Australian government standards for international student enrolment. With an indicative tuition fee of A$19,575 and no additional non-tuition fees, it offers an affordable pathway into Australia's building and construction industry. Whether you aim to work in residential or commercial settings, this qualification provides a strong foundation recognised across Australia.
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Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 104653J) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) over 1 year 10 months (~96 weeks). The course belongs to Field of Education 04 - Architecture and Building, specifically 040325 - Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing. It is designed to equip students with the skills needed to prepare surfaces, mix and apply paints, create decorative finishes, and work safely on construction sites. The VET national code is CPC30620. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability for prospective international students.
Students in this course learn a range of practical and theoretical skills relevant to the painting and decorating trade. Topics typically include surface preparation, colour theory and mixing, application of paints and coatings, wallpaper hanging, sign writing, and safety practices. The field of education (Architecture and Building) focuses on construction-related disciplines, and at Certificate III level, graduates are prepared for skilled roles such as painter, decorator, or team leader. While specific syllabi may vary, the course aligns with Australian industry standards, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Practical training is emphasised, supported by a mandatory work component that provides real-world experience.
The course duration is 1 year 10 months (~96 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or pathway course) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes full-time at one of the delivery locations. The structure combines classroom learning, workshop practice, and supervised work placement.
Indicative tuition fee: A$19,575. Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total cost: A$19,575. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by the institution – always confirm with Technical and Further Education Commission before applying. Additional compulsory costs for international students include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge, which are not included in this estimate. For current fee information, visit the provider's website: https://www.tafensw.edu.au/international.
General English language requirement: IELTS overall band score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications: Applicants should typically have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some prior experience in painting or construction may be beneficial. For students who do not meet direct entry requirements, Technical and Further Education Commission may offer pathway options such as foundation programs or English language courses – contact the provider for details. Note: Entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary; always check the official provider website.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 88 weeks of structured work placement at 8 hours per week, totalling approximately 704 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) component provides hands-on experience in real workplace settings, such as painting and decorating projects on construction sites or private residences. It helps students apply classroom knowledge, develop trade skills, and build industry connections. The placement is supervised and assessed as part of the course.
This course is delivered at two TAFE NSW campuses: - TAFE NSW Granville, located in GRANVILLE, NSW (western Sydney) - TAFE NSW Maitland, located in Metford, NSW (Hunter region)
Granville is a vibrant suburb with easy access to Sydney's public transport network, while Maitland offers a regional lifestyle with lower living costs. New South Wales is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination. Typical living costs in Sydney range from A$400–600 per week for rent, while Maitland is more affordable at A$250–400 per week.
New South Wales, particularly the Sydney region, has a strong construction industry with ongoing demand for skilled painters and decorators. Studying at TAFE NSW gives you access to industry connections and potential employment opportunities. The state offers a multicultural environment, excellent transport links, and a range of student support services. However, consider the cost of living: Sydney is one of Australia's most expensive cities, while regional campuses like Maitland provide a more budget-friendly option. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offering 26,000+ courses, you have many choices – but NSW consistently ranks as a top destination for vocational education.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: - Enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (this course meets that requirement) - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay - Sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel - Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks
For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Technical and Further Education Commission: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and check CRICOS registration. For this course, ensure the provider (CRICOS 00591E) is registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Contact Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) to submit an application. Meet entry requirements including English language test (e.g., IELTS) and provide academic documents. Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, TAFE NSW will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa with the Department of Home Affairs.
Take the next step towards your painting and decorating career in Australia. Research this CRICOS-registered course on HeadStart Academy and start your application today.
View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.