Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 117044E) is a Certificate III delivered by Ashford College Pty Ltd over 1 year. 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 (04304G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Located in Victoria, Ashford College offers this hands-on program at its Melbourne (Docklands) and Geelong campuses. The course is ideal for those seeking a trade career in Australia's construction industry, with strong demand for skilled painters and decorators nationwide.
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Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS 117044E) is a Vocational Education and Training (VET) course at AQF Level 3, focusing on Architecture and Building (Field 0403). It provides practical training in surface preparation, paint application, colour matching, and workplace safety. Students learn to work independently and as part of a team on construction sites. This qualification is part of the CPC30620 national training package. Ashford College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04304G) is a private provider registered to deliver this course to international students. The indicative tuition fee is A$22,000, with non-tuition fees of A$3,000, totalling A$25,000. Fees are subject to change; always confirm with the provider.
Students gain competencies in painting and decorating techniques, including preparing surfaces, applying paint by brush, roller, and spray, hanging wallpaper, and applying decorative finishes. The curriculum covers workplace health and safety, reading plans, estimating material requirements, and using tools and equipment. Graduates are prepared for roles such as painter, decorator, or trades assistant in the building industry. The course typically includes a mix of classroom theory and practical workshops, though no mandatory work component is attached.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English full-time on campus. It is a single qualification (not dual or foundation). Classes are held at Ashford College’s Melbourne and Geelong campuses, with practical sessions in dedicated workshops. Students should expect a standard study load of around 20 hours per week, plus additional self-study time.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition A$22,000, non-tuition fees A$3,000 (covering materials, administration, etc.), estimated total A$25,000. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs vary by city: in Melbourne, indicative weekly rent A$200–A$400, groceries A$100–A$150, public transport A$40–A$60. Always check Ashford College’s website for current fees: [insert provider website from CRICOS].
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior completion of Year 11 or equivalent is recommended for Certificate III level. Some providers may require a relevant trade background or pre-apprenticeship. Ashford College may offer foundation or pathway programs — refer to the provider’s admissions team for specific requirements. Meeting English and academic requirements does not guarantee enrolment; the provider assesses each application individually.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may choose to undertake voluntary work experience or part-time employment during their studies, subject to student visa work conditions.
Ashford College delivers this course at two locations in Victoria: - Melbourne Campus: DOCKLANDS, VIC - Geelong Campus: Shop 3, 65 Brougham Street, GEELONG, VIC, 3220 Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Melbourne’s Docklands area has excellent tram and train connections, while Geelong’s central location is walkable from the train station. Victoria is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, making it a popular study destination. Living costs in Geelong are generally lower than in Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around A$150–A$280.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) for this course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, hold OSHC, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). For full visa details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Ashford College Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy’s course search to filter by course level, field (Architecture and Building), and city (Melbourne or Geelong). Compare providers and check CRICOS registration. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Ashford College’s website, review entry requirements (English test, academic documents), and submit your application before the deadline. The provider will assess your eligibility. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you’ll get a CoE. Then lodge a Subclass 500 visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC and financial capacity. Start your Australian study journey!
If you enjoy hands-on work, have an eye for detail, and want to enter Australia’s building industry, Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a solid choice. Victoria’s construction sector is thriving, with ongoing demand for skilled tradespeople. However, consider the physical nature of the work and the requirement to travel to campus (Docklands or Geelong). International students should also factor in living costs and visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is here to help you explore options — all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Use HeadStart Academy’s free search to compare CRICOS-registered providers and courses. Apply directly to Ashford College today!
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Ashford 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.