Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 113737H) is a Certificate III delivered by Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification equips students with the skills to prepare surfaces, mix and apply paint, wallpaper, and decorative finishes in residential and commercial settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03156M), it meets Australian standards for international students. Painting and decorating is a growing trade in Australia, with demand across major cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Parramatta. Whether you're starting your career or upgrading skills, this course offers practical training aligned with industry needs. HeadStart Academy brings you official CRICOS data to make informed decisions.
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Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 113737H) is a Certificate III delivered by Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course falls under the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (040325). As a VET qualification (national code CPC30620), it provides foundational skills for the construction industry. Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03156M) is a private provider with campuses in Melbourne, Sydney, and Parramatta. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses – this course is one of them.
Students in this Certificate III program learn surface preparation, paint application, colour matching, and decorative techniques. The curriculum covers safe work practices, estimating material requirements, and using tools for spray painting and wallpapering. Graduates typically gain skills to work as painting and decorating contractors or employees in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. While specific syllabi may vary, this AQF Level 3 course builds on prior learning and prepares for further study or apprenticeship pathways. The field of Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing is essential for Australia's built environment, offering diverse career opportunities.
This course runs for 2 years (104 weeks) on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Full-time study is expected. The duration is fixed, though providers may offer flexible schedules. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Melbourne and Sydney campuses offer diverse study environments with access to public transport.
Tuition fee: A$34,000 Non-tuition fees: A$4,000 (includes materials, administration) Estimated total: A$38,000 These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Apex Institute at www.apexaustralia.edu.au. Not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees. For living costs, budget approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport in Melbourne or Sydney, depending on lifestyle.
English language: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Academic requirements: Typically completion of Year 12 or equivalent (Australian Year 11 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis). Apex Institute may require a pre-training assessment. No foundation studies component is included; applicants not meeting direct entry should inquire about pathway options with the provider. Always check with Apex Institute for specific entry criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. Students may undertake voluntary work or part-time employment (subject to visa conditions) but it is not part of the curriculum.
Melbourne: Level 7, 123 Lonsdale St, MELBOURNE VIC 3000 – in the heart of the CBD, near Flinders Street Station and public transport. Melbourne has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Weekly living costs: rent A$250–400, transport A$50. Sydney: Apex Institute of Education (Goulburn Street, Sydney) – near Central Station, in the CBD. Sydney has over 300 providers; living costs are higher (rent A$300–500/week). Parramatta: NSW - Apex Institute of Education (Sorrell Street) – a major business district with affordable living (rent A$200–350/week), 30 minutes by train from Sydney. All campuses are accessible by public transport.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study full-time. Conditions: work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment, attend classes, and meet course progress requirements. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies – demonstrate intention to stay temporarily. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the visa duration. Financial capacity must cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable). HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these steps to enrol in Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify provider details on CRICOS. 2. Apply directly to Apex Institute – meet entry requirements (English test, academic documents), submit application before deadline. The provider may require an interview. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – with CoE, apply online via Department of Home Affairs, pay visa fee, arrange OSHC, and provide biometrics.
Melbourne offers a vibrant arts scene and diverse culture, with a large student community. Sydney is Australia's largest city with high living costs but excellent job opportunities. Parramatta provides a suburban feel with lower costs and good transport links to Sydney. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals. Australia has over 26,000 courses across all states – this course is available in three dynamic locations, each with its own advantages.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Explore Certificate III programs on HeadStart Academy or contact Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd for enrolment details.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Apex Institute of Education 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.