Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 115409H) is a Certificate III delivered by DS College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This AQF Level 3 course is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in painting, decorating, and sign writing, a trade in high demand across Australia's construction industry. Located in Newport, VIC, the program combines practical training with theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for roles such as painter, decorator, or signage installer. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04080G), DS College Pty Ltd ensures compliance with Australian education standards, and all international students benefit from ESOS Act protections. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and the student visa process.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS 115409H) is a vocational qualification at AQF Level 3, offered by DS College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04080G), a private college based in Victoria. The course runs for 55 weeks (1 year 1 month) with instruction in English. It falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04) with a specific focus on Building (0403) and Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (040325). The VET national code for this qualification is CPC30620. This course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. It is designed to provide students with the skills to safely prepare surfaces, mix and match colours, apply paint and decorative finishes, and work on construction sites. Upon completion, graduates may pursue roles as painters, decorators, or signwriters, or continue their studies at a higher level. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This Certificate III level course introduces students to the core competencies of the painting and decorating trade. Students learn about surface preparation, colour theory, paint application techniques (brush, roller, spray), working at heights, and safety procedures on building sites. The curriculum also covers decorative finishes, wallpapering, basic sign writing, and the use of power tools. While specific unit details are determined by the provider, typical learning outcomes align with the CPC30620 national training package. Graduates gain practical skills to work in residential and commercial construction, meet Australian standards, and communicate effectively in a team environment. The program emphasizes hands-on training in real workshop settings, preparing students for the Australian workforce. As a CRICOS-registered course, the delivery must meet quality standards for international students.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is delivered over 55 weeks (approximately 1 year and 1 month) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Classes are conducted at DS College's training facility in Newport, VIC. Students should expect a mix of classroom theory and practical workshop sessions. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 55 weeks, which is indicative and may vary slightly depending on the provider's schedule. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$20,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,500, bringing the estimated total to A$22,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by DS College Pty Ltd. Please note that fees are subject to change, and students should always confirm the current fees directly with the provider. The estimated total does not include other significant costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For reference, living costs in Victoria are estimated at A$25,000–A$30,000 per year, including accommodation, food, and transport. Visit DS College's website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall. Prior qualifications: completion of Year 10 or equivalent is generally expected for AQF Level 3 courses. Some providers may also require a basic aptitude in maths or a pre-training assessment. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; students who do not meet the entry requirements should contact the provider directly. Note: This is general guidance only. DS College Pty Ltd sets its own specific entry requirements, which may change. Always check the provider's website or contact their admissions office. For visa purposes, applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a full-time international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work can provide valuable Australian experience, but it must not interfere with your studies. The course itself does not contain a work placement or internship requirement.
The course is delivered at Unit 8, 92-100 Champion Rd, Newport, VIC 3015. Newport is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 10 km from the CBD. Melbourne is home to over 190,000 international students and has excellent public transport connections, including trains and buses. Living costs in Melbourne are typical for a major city: indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is around A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60. The Newport campus is well-served by transport, with Newport Station a short walk away. Victoria has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses, making it a popular study destination.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (this course is registered), meeting English proficiency and academic entry standards, demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, and having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$29,710/year for a single student), and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Students can also bring eligible family members on dependent visas. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at DS College Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register to confirm DS College's registration (04080G) and the course code (115409H). Filter by course level, field, and location to ensure the program meets your goals.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit DS College's official website to check entry requirements (English test scores, academic records, application deadlines) and submit your application. You may need to provide certified copies of qualifications, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once your application is approved, the college will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your Student visa online. Ensure you meet GTE and financial capacity requirements. Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA agent for assistance.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is a top choice for international students, with a vibrant multicultural community and strong job market in construction trades. The painting and decorating industry is growing, with many opportunities in residential and commercial projects. Consider factors like climate (temperate, with cool winters), cost of living (higher than regional areas but lower than Sydney), and proximity to beaches and cultural attractions. Victoria has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. The state's public transport network makes it easy to travel between campuses and the city. Before choosing this course, assess your career goals, budget, and personal preferences. Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply.
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Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at DS 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.