Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 116539A) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by APLUS EDUCATION GROUP Pty. Ltd. over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This vocational course falls under the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing. The national VET code CPC30620 ensures industry recognition. With two delivery locations in Melbourne, Victoria, this course prepares students for entry-level roles in the painting and decorating trade. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03631M), international students can study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is updated regularly. This page offers a comprehensive overview of fees, entry requirements, student visa conditions, and how to apply.
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Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 116539A) is a Certificate III delivered by APLUS EDUCATION GROUP Pty. Ltd. over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). The course is at AQF Level 3, classified under the field of Architecture and Building (04) with a focus on Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (040325). The VET national code CPC30620 ensures alignment with Australian industry standards. This qualification is designed for international students seeking practical skills in surface preparation, paint application, decorative finishes, and workplace safety. As a single qualification with no work component, students can focus entirely on their studies. The language of instruction is English, and the course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne: Melbourne CBD Campus and Suite 3 Level 9 190 Queen St. Both are in the Melbourne, VIC area. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.
This painting and decorating course covers a range of practical and theoretical topics relevant to the building and construction industry. Students learn about using painting and decorating tools and equipment, preparing surfaces, applying paint systems and coatings, and completing decorative finishes. The course also includes workplace health and safety practices, quality assurance, and communication skills. Graduates are prepared for roles such as painter, decorator, or trades assistant in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The curriculum aligns with the Australian VET competency standards, ensuring skills are transferable across the industry. While specific subjects are set by APLUS EDUCATION GROUP, typical Certificate III programs combine hands-on training with classroom learning. As an international student, you will develop skills that are in demand across Australia's growing construction sector. Melbourne, Victoria, has a strong building industry with many registered providers – over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in the city alone – offering ample opportunities for practical placements and networking.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating has a duration of 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The course is delivered full-time in English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies or work components. Students are expected to attend classes at the delivery locations in Melbourne. The study load typically involves around 20 hours of face-to-face learning per week, plus independent study. The 60-week duration includes breaks and holiday periods in line with standard academic calendars. Melbourne's student-friendly environment offers excellent public transport access to both campuses, with trams and trains connecting the CBD and Queen Street area. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies. International students should budget accordingly.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at APLUS EDUCATION GROUP is A$15,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$16,500. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, estimated at A$600–700 per year for single cover. Living expenses, airfares, and the student visa application charge (currently A$710 for the main applicant) are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with APLUS EDUCATION GROUP via their official website before applying. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only and does not charge referral fees. All institutions listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring fee transparency under ESOS Act protections.
General entry requirements for Certificate III level courses include completion of Year 12 or equivalent in the student's home country. For international students, English language proficiency is typically demonstrated through an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent in other accepted tests like TOEFL or PTE). Some providers may require a minimum of 5.0 in each band. No specific prior qualification in painting and decorating is necessary, but a background in trades or construction can be beneficial. APLUS EDUCATION GROUP may also assess applicants based on their academic history and interview. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway options such as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) may be available. Always check with the provider for the most current entry criteria. As a CRICOS-registered provider, APLUS EDUCATION GROUP must adhere to Australian Government standards for international student enrolment.
This course has no work component. It does not include mandatory work placement, internships, or structured work experience. Students are not required to undertake any employment as part of the curriculum. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) have work rights: they can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain part-time work experience in the painting industry or other areas. Melbourne offers a vibrant job market with many opportunities in hospitality, retail, and trades. Always check your visa conditions before starting work. The ESOS Act ensures international students' rights are protected, including access to education and welfare services.
APLUS EDUCATION GROUP delivers the Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 1) Melbourne CBD Campus – Melbourne, VIC, and 2) Suite 3 Level 9 190 Queen St, MELBOURNE VIC 3000. Both are centrally located with easy access to public transport, including Melbourne Central Station and Flagstaff Station. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a population of over 5 million, including a large international student community (over 150,000 students from diverse countries). The city has more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a prime destination for vocational studies. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than regional areas but offer a rich cultural and social experience. Typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–350, with groceries costing about A$70–100 per week. Public transport is extensive, with myki cards accepted on trains, trams, and buses.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and permits work rights as mentioned. To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold valid health insurance. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Processing times vary, so apply early. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from APLUS EDUCATION GROUP, you can lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. Always consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for official guidance. Australian student visa conditions require satisfactory course attendance and academic progress, so choose a course that aligns with your goals.
Melbourne is a top choice for international students due to its multicultural environment, high-quality education institutions, and vibrant lifestyle. The city consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities. For painting and decorating students, Melbourne's thriving construction sector offers potential job prospects during and after studies. The city has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, indicating a robust educational ecosystem. However, the cost of living is higher than in regional areas, so budget accordingly. Public transport is efficient, but owning a car may not be necessary. Consider your career goals: if you plan to work in Australia after graduation, the temporary graduate visa (Subclass 485) may offer a pathway. Research the local job market and networking opportunities in the building trades. Melbourne's diverse population means you'll find community groups and support services for international students. Ultimately, the city offers a balanced mix of study, work, and lifestyle.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at APLUS EDUCATION GROUP: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter Certificate III courses in Architecture and Building across Melbourne. Compare providers and read about course details. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact APLUS EDUCATION GROUP to confirm entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and application deadlines. Submit your academic documents and personal statement. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the provider issues your CoE, lodge your visa application online, pay the fee, and attend a health examination if required. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Check processing times and plan to arrive before the course start date.
Ready to start your journey? Apply now for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at APLUS Education Group. Use HeadStart Academy to research and compare CRICOS-registered courses, then apply directly to your chosen institution.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at APLUS EDUCATION GROUP 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.