Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 115424J) is a Certificate III delivered by Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd over 2 years. This vocational qualification, nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3), prepares international students for a career as a painter and decorator. The course covers surface preparation, colour selection, application of paints and coatings, and safe work practices. It falls under the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (Field 040325). As a CRICOS-registered program (provider CRICOS 03523D), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. Delivered in English at two locations—Melbourne, VIC and Bankstown, NSW—this course offers flexibility for students choosing between Australia's cultural capital and Sydney's vibrant western suburbs. With an indicative total fee of A$29,250, it provides a pathway to skilled employment in Australia's construction industry.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This Certificate III program equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge for painting and decorating. The curriculum includes preparing surfaces, mixing and matching colours, applying paints and coatings using various techniques, and working with patterns and textures. Students also learn about workplace health and safety, environmental sustainability, and communication in the construction industry. Graduates typically find employment as painters, decorators, or team leaders in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The course aligns with the VET national code CPC30620, ensuring industry recognition. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, the general focus is on developing competent tradespeople who can produce high-quality finishes and work effectively in teams.
The program runs for 2 years (104 weeks) on a full-time basis, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is conducted entirely in English, suitable for international students with an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students should expect a combination of classroom theory, practical workshops, and possibly simulated work environments. No mandatory work component is attached to this course, meaning students are not required to undertake workplace placements as part of graduation requirements.
Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd sets the following indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition A$26,000, non-tuition fees A$3,250 (including materials, uniform, or administrative costs), and an estimated total of A$29,250. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the Student visa application charge are not included. For current fees and to confirm any additional charges, always check the provider's website at http://www.scsb.nsw.edu.au. Living costs in Melbourne or Sydney typically range from A$400 to A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on lifestyle.
Applicants are expected to have completed Year 10 or equivalent, with IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (no band below 5.0). This is a general guide; the provider may set specific academic and English language prerequisites. No foundation studies pathway is offered directly, but students can explore pathway programs through other institutions or contact SDL Academy for options. All international applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for a Student visa (Subclass 500). We recommend consulting the provider's admissions team for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This course has no work component, meaning there is no mandatory workplace placement or internship included in the curriculum. However, Student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity for part-time work in related industries while studying.
The course is delivered at two campuses: SCSB Melbourne Campus at 166-172 Exhibition St, MELBOURNE VIC 3000, and Suite 603 Level 6, 2 Meredith St, BANKSTOWN NSW 2200. Melbourne's campus is in the CBD, close to public transport and student amenities. Bankstown is a multicultural hub in Sydney's south-west, with excellent train and bus connections. Both locations offer access to Australia's largest cities, each with over 100,000 international students. Victoria alone has 1,200+ CRICOS-registered providers, while NSW hosts 1,500+ providers. Choosing between them depends on personal preference for climate, cost of living, and lifestyle.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa requires evidence of enrolment (CoE), sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, OSHC, and English proficiency. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. OSHC is mandatory and covers medical and hospital costs. For detailed visa guidance, visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised assistance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify registration status (CRICOS 03523D) and compare courses. 2. **Apply directly to the institution** – Check entry requirements, arrange English language tests, and submit your application by the deadline. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE to lodge your Subclass 500 visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
This trade is in demand across Australia, especially in construction-heavy states like Victoria and New South Wales. Consider your career goals: painters and decorators can work independently or for companies, with opportunities for specialisation in heritage restoration, industrial coatings, or interior design. Location matters—Melbourne offers a vibrant arts scene and diverse architecture, while Bankstown provides proximity to Sydney's booming construction market. Living costs are higher in Sydney (approx. A$500-$700/week), but Melbourne is slightly more affordable (A$400-$600/week). Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are backed by the ESOS Act, protecting your tuition fees and ensuring education quality.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Explore the CRICOS register or contact SDL Academy for application details.
View the full Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd profile →
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy 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.