Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 117448G) is a Certificate III delivered by Learning Victoria Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (CPC30620) equips international students with the skills to work as painting and decorating tradespeople in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03785D), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Learning Victoria Pty Ltd, operating under the brand IBM - Institute of Business & Management, offers this VET program at two campuses in Victoria: Broadmeadows and Melbourne. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student. HeadStart Academy provides this guide to help you understand the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and application process. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses – this page focuses on one specific option for aspiring painters and decorators.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This qualification falls under the field of Architecture and Building (Broad Field 04) and specifically Building (Narrow Field 0403) with a focus on Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (Detailed Field 040325). At AQF Level 3, Certificate III courses prepare students for skilled work as tradespeople. While the exact syllabus is set by Learning Victoria Pty Ltd, graduates typically learn to prepare surfaces, apply paint and decorative finishes, work safely at heights, read work documents, and interact with clients. The course combines practical workshop training with theoretical knowledge, covering materials, tools, colour theory, and Australian standards. You'll develop problem-solving and communication skills essential for the construction industry. Training providers often include simulated work environments to mirror real job sites. This VET program is designed to meet the needs of the painting and decorating industry, ensuring graduates are job-ready for roles in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
This course is listed on the CRICOS register as a 1-year program (52 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English, making it accessible to international students with adequate English proficiency. It is a single qualification (no dual or combined awards) and does not include foundation studies. The study mode is typically full-time, on-campus at either of the two delivery locations. For specific class timetables and attendance requirements, please contact Learning Victoria Pty Ltd directly. Note that courses may have compulsory contact hours and assessments that require physical presence.
The indicative fees for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (117448G) are as follows: tuition fee A$18,500, non-tuition fees A$1,500, and an estimated total of A$20,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with Learning Victoria Pty Ltd before applying. Additional costs not included in the total include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). For a single student, the Department of Home Affairs recommends a minimum of A$21,041 per year for living costs (as at 2025–26). Visit the provider's website at www.ibm.vic.edu.au for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
The CRICOS register indicates an IELTS requirement of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) for this course. As a Certificate III, prior qualifications expected are typically completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also accept students with relevant work experience or a Certificate II in a related field. Foundation studies are not part of this course. For specific academic and English language requirements, please refer to Learning Victoria Pty Ltd. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa – all applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity as per student visa conditions.
This course has no work component. It does not include a mandatory placement, internship, or work experience as part of the curriculum. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 student visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This can help you gain industry exposure and offset living costs, but it is not a formal part of the course.
The course is delivered at two campuses in Victoria:
1. Broadmeadows Campus: Building D, 60 Belfast St, Broadmeadows VIC 3047. This suburban campus is about 16 km north of Melbourne CBD, accessible via train (Broadmeadows station) and bus routes. Broadmeadows has a diverse community and growing student population.
2. Melbourne Campus: Level 1, 364-372 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Located in the heart of the CBD, this campus is well-connected by tram, train, and bus. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne average A$450–600 per week for rent (shared or studio), A$80–100 for groceries, and A$50 for public transport (myki pass). The city's student population exceeds 250,000 international students, creating a vibrant multicultural environment.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, typically one year. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Learning Victoria Pty Ltd, evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Remember that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Learning Victoria Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS register to confirm that Learning Victoria Pty Ltd is registered (CRICOS 03785D) and that course 117448G is current. Consider your budget, location preferences, and entry requirements.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to Learning Victoria Pty Ltd (www.ibm.vic.edu.au). You'll need to provide academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent), and any other required documents. Meet application deadlines and await a letter of offer.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include your OSHC cover, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Visa processing times vary – plan ahead.
Before enrolling in Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, consider your career goals and practical realities. Painting and decorating is a trade that requires physical stamina, manual dexterity, and comfort working at heights. In Victoria, trade occupations are in demand – the state government has identified skills shortages in construction. After graduation, you may need to undergo a skills assessment for migration purposes. Tools and safety equipment are typically provided during training, but you may need your own basic kit. Also consider the location: Melbourne offers diverse job opportunities, while Broadmeadows provides a quieter study environment. Public transport access to both campuses is good. Finally, remember that this course does not guarantee a job or permanent residency – it is a stepping stone toward a skilled trade career in Australia.
Visit Learning Victoria Pty Ltd's website at www.ibm.vic.edu.au for detailed course information and to start your application.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Learning Victoria 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.