Certificate III in Solid Plastering (CRICOS course code 110610C) is a Certificate III delivered by Datum College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students who want to develop skills in solid plastering, including applying finishes, repairing surfaces, and working with various materials. As part of the Architecture and Building field (040317 - Plastering), this course provides practical training for the construction industry. Datum College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03979E) is a private provider offering this course at two locations in Victoria: West Melbourne and Footscray. The indicative tuition fee is A$14,000, plus non-tuition fees of A$2,500, totaling approximately A$16,500. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you explore over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across Australia.
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Certificate III in Solid Plastering (110610C) is a nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 3) under the VET national code CPC31020. It is registered on CRICOS, meaning it meets Australian standards for international students. This course does not include a foundation studies or dual qualification component. The language of instruction is English, and the course runs for 52 weeks. Graduates can pursue roles as solid plasterers in residential and commercial construction. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. Melbourne, where the course is delivered, has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant study environment. The indicative total cost of A$16,500 covers tuition and mandatory fees but excludes OSHC, living expenses, and visa costs.
This course covers the core skills required for solid plastering, including interpreting plans, preparing surfaces, mixing and applying plaster, and installing decorative features. Students learn about workplace safety, sustainability practices, and communication on construction sites. The curriculum aligns with the Vocational Education and Training (VET) framework, focusing on hands-on training. Typical learning outcomes at this level include the ability to work independently on standard tasks, apply problem-solving techniques, and use industry-standard tools. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with Datum College, the course broadly prepares graduates for the Australian construction industry, which has a high demand for skilled trades. Melbourne's construction sector is growing rapidly, with major infrastructure projects creating job opportunities.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. It is a single qualification (Certificate III) with no dual qualification pathway. Instruction is in English, suitable for international students with intermediate English proficiency. The study mode is typically full-time, on-campus, with practical workshops. Students should expect a blend of classroom theory and hands-on training. This structure allows students to complete the qualification within a standard academic year while meeting student visa requirements for full-time study.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$14,000, and non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, and administration) are A$2,500, giving an estimated total of A$16,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Datum College Pty Ltd. Fees are subject to change; always confirm with the provider. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–A$700 per year for single student cover – and living expenses. The Australian Government recommends living costs of at least A$21,041 per year for a single student (excluding tuition). Melbourne's cost of living is moderate: indicative weekly rent for a share house is around A$250–A$350, groceries A$80–A$100, and public transport A$40–A$50. The student visa application charge is currently A$710. These are not included in the course fees. For the latest fee information, visit the Datum College website.
Typical entry requirements for a Certificate III course include completion of Year 10 or equivalent, and an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). This level expects students to have foundational literacy and numeracy skills. Some providers may require a pre-training assessment or interview. There are no foundation or pathway programs specifically attached to this course at Datum College; however, students who do not meet English requirements may consider ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) at the same provider. For exact entry criteria, refer to the provider's website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered migration agent for visa-related questions.
This course has no mandatory work component. It does not include a structured internship, placement, or work experience as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). This allows students to gain part-time work experience in the construction or hospitality sectors to supplement their living expenses. Always check current Department of Home Affairs conditions.
Datum College Pty Ltd delivers this course at two locations in Victoria: 11-17 Jeffcott Street, WEST MELBOURNE VIC 3003 and Footscray Campus, FOOTSCRAY VIC. Both are in the Melbourne metropolitan area, a major hub for international students. Melbourne has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student population of over 200,000. Public transport (trains, trams, buses) connects both campuses to the city center. West Melbourne is close to the CBD, while Footscray is a multicultural suburb with affordable housing. These locations offer access to construction industry networks and part-time work opportunities.
International students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. Health cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the visa duration. For detailed guidance on visa conditions, financial capacity, and application process, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; always seek professional advice if needed.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a major education destination with over 200,000 international students. The construction sector is booming, with demand for skilled trades like solid plastering. The cost of living is lower than Sydney but higher than regional areas. Students can expect a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and vibrant cultural life. However, consider that Melbourne's housing market is competitive; planning accommodation early is essential. If you prefer a slower pace, regional Victoria also has construction opportunities. This course at Datum College gives you a foot in the door in a growing industry. Compare courses across different states using HeadStart Academy's CRICOS database.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Solid Plastering at Datum College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Architecture and Building), and location (Victoria). Confirm that Datum College meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language test requirements (e.g., IELTS 5.5), and application deadlines. Submit your application online or through the provider's admissions office. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Datum College will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of funds, OSHC, and genuine temporary entrant status.
Ready to start your career in solid plastering? Explore CRICOS-registered courses like this one on HeadStart Academy – your free guide to studying in Australia.
Certificate III in Solid Plastering is a CRICOS-registered programme at Datum 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.