Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 114716E) is a Certificate III delivered by Edinburgh Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification equips international students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to work in the painting and decorating industry, including surface preparation, paint application, wallpapering, and safety procedures. It is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and is listed on the official CRICOS register, ensuring it meets Australian standards for international students. Edinburgh Institute, a private CRICOS-registered provider (04194H), offers this course in Melbourne, Victoria. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available across Australia, this course is a solid step for those looking to enter the building and construction sector. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and legal rights. Tuition fees are indicative and subject to change, so always confirm with the provider.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS 114716E) is a trade qualification that prepares students for roles as painting and decorating technicians. The course covers key competencies such as interpreting work specifications, preparing surfaces, mixing and applying paints, using industry-standard tools, and applying wallpaper and decorative finishes. Students also learn about workplace health and safety, sustainable practices, and customer service. This course is part of the Architecture and Building field (Field of Education 040325 - Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing) and is at AQF Level 3, representing a Certificate III. Graduates may find employment in residential and commercial painting, restoration, and decorative finishes. The course is delivered full-time in English over 104 weeks, with no work component included. International students must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) and comply with visa conditions, including work limitations and OSHC requirements.
This qualification focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of painting and decorating. Students learn to prepare surfaces by cleaning, sanding, and filling; apply paint using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment; hang wallpaper; and apply decorative finishes. The curriculum also covers mixing colours, estimating material quantities, and working safely on scaffolding and ladders. Additionally, students develop skills in reading blueprints, communicating with clients, and managing paperwork. The course aligns with the national VET standard CPC30620, ensuring recognition across Australia. While specific unit details are not listed here, typical Certificate III courses in this field include core units on workplace safety, quality assurance, and sustainable practices. Elective units may cover advanced techniques like faux finishes or sign writing. Students benefit from hands-on training in real-world settings, with access to industry-standard equipment.
The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks) full-time, as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. The duration is fixed, and students are expected to attend classes regularly. Two delivery locations are available in St Kilda, Melbourne, both easily accessible by public transport. Students may also access online learning materials, but the course is primarily face-to-face. The 104-week period includes scheduled breaks, during which student visa holders can work unlimited hours. It is important to maintain full-time enrolment and meet academic progress requirements to stay compliant with visa conditions.
The indicative fees for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating set by Edinburgh Institute Pty Ltd are: tuition A$28,500, non-tuition fees A$3,500, and an estimated total of A$32,000. These are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for all student visa holders, living expenses (average A$1,500–$2,200 per month in Melbourne), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always check the provider’s official website for the most current fees and payment schedules. Edinburgh Institute may also charge material or uniform fees not listed here.
International students applying for this course are typically expected to have an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualification of Year 12 or equivalent is generally required. Since this is a Certificate III, some prior vocational experience may be beneficial but is not mandatory. No foundation or pathway programs are offered for this course. Edinburgh Institute may also require a minimum age of 18 years. Specific entry requirements should be confirmed directly with the provider. For visa purposes, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies, and students must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Work must not interfere with course attendance. International students are encouraged to seek part-time employment to gain local experience, but it is important to check visa conditions. The absence of a work component means the course is purely academic and practical training.
The course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne: Level 1, St Kilda Campus (L1 St. Kilda Campus) and Level 2, 608E St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004. Both are in the St Kilda area, a vibrant inner-city suburb known for its beach, arts, and dining. Melbourne has a large international student community, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Public transport is excellent: trams and trains connect St Kilda to the city centre in about 20 minutes. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$1,500–$2,200 per month for shared accommodation, groceries, and transport. The city is a hub for construction and trade jobs, offering potential networking opportunities.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course; maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay; demonstrating Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) status; and having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. It is illegal to work before the course starts. Dependents may apply for a Student Dependent visa (Subclass 500) with work rights. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for updates. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for visa advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, making it an attractive destination for international students. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a strong demand for tradespeople in construction and infrastructure, it offers a practical environment for painting and decorating students. The city's street art culture and design scene provide creative inspiration. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney; expect to pay around A$600–$900 per fortnight for rent in shared accommodation, A$150–$200 for groceries, and A$50–$80 for public transport. Melbourne's extensive tram and train network makes commuting easy. Winter temperatures average 14°C, so be prepared. The city hosts many cultural festivals and events, ensuring a rich student life.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Edinburgh Institute:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by field (Architecture and Building), level (Certificate III), and location (Victoria). Edinburgh Institute (CRICOS 04194H) is listed with full details.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check the entry requirements (IELTS 5.0-5.5, Year 12 equivalent). Prepare your English test results, academic transcripts, and passport. Submit your application through the provider’s website or admissions office. Deadlines may vary.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, Edinburgh Institute will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa fee, arrange OSHC, and upload all required documents. Wait for a decision.
Explore more trade courses at Edinburgh Institute or other providers in Victoria using HeadStart Academy's course search.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edinburgh Institute 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.