Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS 117087E)

Course overview

Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS course code 117087E) is a 2-year, full-time qualification delivered by ALIF Australia Pty Ltd. It is registered at AQF Level 3 under the field of Architecture and Building (040311 - Carpentry and Joinery). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards of the ESOS Act and is available only to international students. The course prepares graduates for roles such as carpenter or joiner in residential and commercial settings. With a VET national code of CPC30220, this qualification is nationally recognised and aligned with industry standards. ALIF Australia is a private provider with four delivery locations across Queensland and New South Wales, offering flexibility for students across different regions. Trust signals: all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data comes directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which includes 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses.

What you'll study

This Certificate III covers the essential skills and knowledge required for a career in carpentry and joinery. Students learn about workplace safety, plan interpretation, material selection, and construction techniques including structural framing, roofing, formwork, and finishing. The curriculum aligns with the national training package CPC30220 and includes both theoretical and practical components. While exact units are set by the provider, typical areas of study include: apply WHS requirements, read and interpret plans, carry out measurements and calculations, construct wall and floor framing, construct pitched roofs, and install window and door assemblies. Graduates will be able to work independently or as part of a team on construction sites. This course is designed for international students with no prior formal carpentry experience, though basic numeracy and literacy skills are expected.

Duration and study mode

The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. This is a single qualification—not a dual award or foundation studies course. Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments as per the academic calendar. ALIF Australia typically offers intakes multiple times per year; contact the provider for exact start dates. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions.

Fees (indicative)

Tuition fees: A$32,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$1,500 (covering materials, administration, and amenities). Estimated total: A$33,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with ALIF Australia Pty Ltd at www.australisinstitute.nsw.edu.au. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–$800 per year for single cover; living expenses – around A$21,041 per year for a single student; and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). The ESOS Act ensures your tuition is protected if the provider ceases to deliver.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International applicants typically need an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent English proficiency test). For Certificate III level, prior completion of Australian Year 11 or equivalent is generally expected. There are no formal subject prerequisites for carpentry, but basic maths and reading skills are advantageous. If you don't meet English requirements, some providers offer pathway programs or English language courses. Contact ALIF Australia for specific academic and English language requirements, as they may vary by location. Note: HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend consulting a registered migration agent for visa advice.

Work component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 18 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 360 hours. This is an industry placement or internship that provides hands-on experience in real carpentry settings. You will apply skills learned in class under the supervision of experienced professionals. Work placements are arranged by the provider, typically in local construction companies or on-site projects. This component is a valuable opportunity to build industry connections and enhance employability. All placements must comply with workplace health and safety regulations. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, which may coincide with placement timing.

Delivery locations

ALIF Australia Pty Ltd delivers the Certificate III in Carpentry at four campuses: (1) Albert Street, Brisbane QLD – Brisbane is the capital of Queensland with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community; (2) Bay Street, Southport QLD – in the Gold Coast, a major tourist and student destination with affordable living; (3) George Street, Parramatta NSW – Parramatta is Sydney’s second CBD, well-connected by train and bus, with many international students; (4) Lake Street, Cairns QLD – Cairns offers a tropical lifestyle and lower living costs, with a growing student population. Each location provides access to local amenities, public transport, and potential work placement opportunities. Brisbane and Parramatta have higher rental costs, while Southport and Cairns are more affordable. Indicative weekly rent: Brisbane $250–$400, Parramatta $250–$380, Southport $200–$350, Cairns $180–$300.

Student visa

To study this course on campus, you will need an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory health insurance for the duration of your visa; financial capacity – evidence of funds for tuition, living costs, and travel; English proficiency – usually IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Your course must be CRICOS-registered (117087E confirms this). The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition refunds if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to begin your study journey:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered; ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03173K) is approved to enrol international students.

2. **Apply directly to ALIF Australia Pty Ltd** – Submit your application through their website (www.australisinstitute.nsw.edu.au) or via an education agent. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and any other requested documents. Check entry requirements and deadlines for your chosen campus.

3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) online. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and a GTE statement. Seek help from a registered migration agent if needed.

What to consider before choosing Certificate III in Carpentry

Carpentry is a skilled trade with strong demand in Australia's construction industry. Before enrolling, consider the following: Licensing – after completing Certificate III, you may need a carpentry licence to work independently (requirements vary by state). Job outlook – carpenters are on the skilled occupation list, with good postgraduate visa options. Physical demands – carpentry involves manual labour, lifting, and working at heights. Location – choose a campus near job opportunities; Brisbane and Parramatta have booming construction markets. Also factor in living costs: Sydney (Parramatta) is more expensive than Cairns or Southport. All CRICOS-registered courses come with ESOS protections, so your investment is safeguarded. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we don't charge fees or take commissions.

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