Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS course code 117432D) is a Certificate III delivered by International College of Melbourne Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~57 weeks). This nationally recognised qualification (CPC30220) equips students with essential skills in timber construction, framing, formwork, and finishing. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students and is covered by the ESOS Act protections. International College of Melbourne Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03416G) is a private provider with campuses in Lalor and Melbourne, Victoria, and Adelaide, South Australia. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this carpentry course sits within the Architecture and Building field, preparing graduates for roles in residential and commercial construction. The Australian building industry continues to thrive, creating strong demand for qualified carpenters. Whether you aim to work as a carpenter, join a building team, or pursue further studies, this qualification provides a solid foundation. Below, we break down fees, entry requirements, locations, and visa details to help you make an informed decision. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative — always confirm with the provider.
This course falls under Field of Education 040311 - Carpentry and Joinery, within the Architecture and Building field. At the Certificate III level, students develop practical skills in constructing, assembling, installing, and repairing timber structures. Core competencies typically include reading and interpreting plans, calculating material requirements, using hand and power tools, erecting and dismantling formwork, framing walls and roofs, installing doors and windows, and applying safety standards. While the specific syllabus is set by International College of Melbourne Pty Ltd, graduates of Certificate III in Carpentry generally achieve the national competency standards outlined in CPC30220. This qualification prepares students for roles such as carpenter, joiner, or site supervisor in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The course emphasises hands-on training and workplace safety, aligning with Australian building codes and regulations.
The Certificate III in Carpentry is delivered over 1 year and 1 month (57 weeks) on the CRICOS register. The course is taught in English, and no dual qualification or foundation studies component is included. International students should expect a full-time study load, typically requiring 20-25 hours per week of classroom, workshop, and self-directed learning. The provider may offer flexibility in scheduling, but the CRICOS duration assumes standard full-time enrolment. This single qualification focuses entirely on developing carpentry skills without additional integrated studies. Learning takes place in a mix of classroom theory, workshop practice, and simulated workplace environments, preparing students for real-world construction tasks.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows: tuition fee A$18,000, non-tuition fees A$2,000, for an estimated total of A$20,000. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on the provider. Living expenses in Australian cities vary; for example, weekly rent in Melbourne averages A$250–A$450, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$60. International students should budget at least A$21,041 per year for living costs as per Department of Home Affairs guidance. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change — always check International College of Melbourne's website for the most current information.
To enrol in this course, international students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent), as well as completion of Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Prior experience in construction or trade-related subjects may be beneficial. International College of Melbourne may also assess applicants individually through interviews or skills assessments. Students without the required English level may consider pathway programs, such as General English or ELICOS courses, before starting the certificate. It is essential to have the necessary academic and English proficiency to succeed in a hands-on trade environment. Always confirm specific entry requirements with the provider, as they may vary.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This allows you to gain practical experience in the Australian workplace while studying. Some students may choose to undertake voluntary work placements or part-time jobs in the building industry to enhance their skills. The absence of a compulsory work component means the course focuses entirely on academic and practical training within the institution's facilities.
International College of Melbourne delivers this course at three locations: - 11 Duncan Road, Lalor VIC 3075 (Lalor, Victoria) - Level 11, 55 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne CBD, Victoria) - Level 3 West 50, Adelaide SA 5000 (Adelaide, South Australia)
Each campus offers access to workshop facilities and equipment. Melbourne is a major education hub with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, a vibrant student population, and excellent public transport. Adelaide, while smaller, offers a lower cost of living and a growing construction sector. Studying in Victoria or South Australia gives you access to Australia's booming building industry, with strong demand for qualified carpenters. Consider your preferred city lifestyle and living costs when choosing a campus.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course in Australia. The visa allows you to work 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during term breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intent to stay temporarily for education. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. You also need to show financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The indicative fees for this course are A$20,000, but you should budget additional funds for OSHC (approx. A$600/year) and living expenses (at least A$21,041/year). Visa application charges apply (currently A$710). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for this course involves three straightforward steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to compare carpentry courses across Australia. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (this course is under CRICOS 03416G and code 117432D). 2. **Apply directly to International College of Melbourne**: Check entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and any other documents. Submit your application through the provider's website at www.icm.edu.au. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and show evidence of funds.
For detailed assistance, visit the provider's website or consult a registered education agent.
Choosing between Melbourne and Adelaide depends on your preferences. Melbourne is a bustling metropolitan city with over 4.5 million people, a diverse culture, and a large international student community. It has excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) and a higher cost of living. Adelaide, with around 1.3 million residents, offers a more relaxed lifestyle, lower rent (average A$200–A$350 per week), and a growing job market in construction. Both cities have strong trade industries. Victoria alone has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of building and construction courses. Consider factors like climate, lifestyle, and proximity to family or friends. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare locations and courses.
Ready to start your carpentry career in Australia? Follow the how-to-apply steps or visit International College of Melbourne's website for more information.
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Certificate III in Carpentry is a CRICOS-registered programme at International College of Melbourne 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.