Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 108754E) is a Certificate III delivered by Durban International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). This qualification is part of the Architecture and Building field (040325) and equips students with practical skills for the painting and decorating industry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students. Whether you aim to work in residential or commercial settings, this course provides foundational training in surface preparation, paint application, wallpapering, and decorative finishes. Durban International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02915G) is a private provider with campuses in Melbourne and Adelaide. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this program stands out for its focus on hands-on trade skills. HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no commission, no referral fees—helping you navigate your study options.
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This course, listed under VET national code CPC30620, is a trade qualification that prepares students for roles as painters and decorators. It covers essential techniques such as calculating material requirements, preparing surfaces, applying paint systems, and using decorative finishes. The curriculum aligns with Australian industry standards, ensuring graduates are job-ready. As a Certificate III (AQF Level 3), it typically requires completion of Year 10 or equivalent. No dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. The course is taught in English, and all content is delivered by qualified trainers at Durban International College. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. For current details, always check the provider's website.
The field of education for this course is 04 - Architecture and Building, specifically 0403 - Building, with a focus on 040325 - Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing. Students learn to interpret work documents, select and prepare surfaces, apply paints and coatings, and install wallpaper and other finishes. Safety and environmental practices are integral. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, graduates typically gain competencies in using tools, mixing colours, and working at heights. This trade is in demand across Australia, particularly in growing cities like Melbourne and Adelaide. Practical workshops and simulated work environments are common features of VET training at this level.
The course runs for 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification—no dual awards. Study modes may include face-to-face classes at the provider's campuses. International students should be prepared for full-time study commitments. The duration includes holiday breaks as per standard academic calendars. Note that course lengths are indicative and may vary based on provider schedules. Always confirm with Durban International College for the most current timetable.
Tuition fee for this course is A$28,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,080, bringing the estimated total to A$29,080. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fee structures, refer to the Durban International College website. As a guide, international students should budget approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs in Melbourne or Adelaide. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends confirming all costs directly with the provider before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) and have completed Year 10 or equivalent qualifications. Prior experience in painting or decorating is not mandatory but may be beneficial. For exact entry criteria, including any foundation or pathway options, contact Durban International College directly. English language requirements can be met through other tests like TOEFL or PTE. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee enrolment—the provider will assess each application. For visa purposes, students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. All training is delivered through classroom or workshop-based sessions. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Even without an embedded work placement, practical skills are developed through simulated tasks. This structure allows students to focus on study while gaining hands-on experience in a controlled environment.
Durban International College delivers this course at three campuses: DIC Melbourne Campus at 166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC, and two Adelaide locations—Level 1, Eastern Side, 128 Hindley Street, Adelaide SA, and Level 18, 45 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA. Both cities offer vibrant student communities. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students with excellent public transport, while Adelaide provides a more affordable cost of living (rent ~A$250–350/week). All campuses are accessible via train, tram, or bus. Studying in either city gives you access to a diverse cultural experience and strong industry connections.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and dependents. Work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during course terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks—subject to visa conditions. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa assistance, consult a MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Durban International College:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm this course (108754E) suits your goals.
2. **Apply directly to Durban International College** – Check entry requirements, prepare IELTS scores (or equivalent), and submit your application before the deadline. The provider will assess your qualifications.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, use your CoE to lodge a Subclass 500 visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of funds ready. Remember, visa outcomes are at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs.
Choosing between Melbourne and Adelaide depends on your preferences. Melbourne, with over 5 million residents, is a global student hub offering diverse industries, cultural events, and extensive public transport. Living costs are higher (approx. A$450/week rent). Adelaide, with 1.3 million people, is more affordable (rent ~A$350/week) and has a relaxed lifestyle. Both cities have strong construction sectors, with demand for painters and decorators. Consider climate, community size, and proximity to family. HeadStart Academy’s state guides provide more location-specific data.
Explore more painting and decorating courses on HeadStart Academy, or contact Durban International College directly to start your application.
View the full Durban International College Pty Ltd profile →
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Durban International College Pty Ltd. 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.