Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 117693E) is a Certificate III delivered by IIVS Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This AQF Level 3 qualification sits within the Architecture and Building field (040325 – Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing) and is designed for international students seeking practical skills in residential and commercial painting, surface preparation, and finishing techniques. IIVS Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04108M) is a private provider with campuses in Parramatta and Sydney CBD. The indicative tuition fee is A$35,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000, totalling A$37,000 (excluding OSHC, living costs and visa fees). Entry requires IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall. This page provides detailed information on the course structure, fees, location, entry requirements, and student visa conditions to help you plan your study in Australia.
This course covers the skills and knowledge required for work in the painting, decorating and sign writing industry. The national vocational code is CPC30620. Students learn surface preparation, paint application, wallpaper hanging, signage installation, colour mixing, decoration, working safely at heights, and quality assurance. As an AQF Level 3 qualification, graduates are expected to apply a broad range of skilled applications in varied contexts, including planning activities, using workplace tools and materials, and working independently or under limited supervision. The curriculum aligns with industry standards and prepares students for roles such as painter, decorator, or sign writer in both residential and commercial settings. Practical training includes using brushes, rollers, spray equipment, and handling paints and solvents safely.
The program is delivered over 48 weeks (~11 months) on a full-time basis. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and is not a foundation studies program. The course is designed for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and includes structured classroom and practical workshop sessions. IIVS Pty Ltd offers the course at two campuses: Parramatta and Sydney CBD. Students should expect a mix of theory and hands-on training with a focus on developing trade-ready skills.
Course fees are set by IIVS Pty Ltd and are indicative based on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition fees are A$35,000 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees (materials, administration, etc.) are A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$37,000. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students must also budget for accommodation, transport, food, and personal expenses. For current fees and any deposit requirements, please visit the IIVS Pty Ltd website directly. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm with the provider before enrolling.
To enter Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, international students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall. Additionally, applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or an overseas equivalent, as this level expects foundational numeracy and literacy skills. Prior experience in painting or decorating is not mandatory. IIVS Pty Ltd may set specific academic requirements and may also consider foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet standard entry. Contact the provider for detailed entry criteria and any bridging options. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for visa purposes.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake industry placement or internship as part of the curriculum. 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, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain casual work experience while studying.
IIVS Pty Ltd delivers this course at two locations in New South Wales: 175 Church Street, Parramatta (NSW 2150) and Level 4, 22 Market Street, Sydney (NSW 2000). Parramatta is a major economic hub west of Sydney with a large student population, excellent public transport (train, bus, light rail), and more affordable living costs compared to the city centre. The Sydney CBD campus is in the heart of Australia's largest city, surrounded by cultural attractions, restaurants, and extensive transport links. Sydney has over 500 CRICOS-registered providers and is home to more than 150,000 international students. Weekly rent in Sydney ranges from A$250 (shared) to A$600+ for a one-bedroom apartment; groceries and transport add A$200-400 per week. These cost-of-living estimates are guides only.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a registered course, attending classes, and making satisfactory course progress. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied — students must demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence showing ability to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC is required. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at IIVS Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to compare painting and decorating courses across Australia. Filter by course level, field, and location to find the right program for your goals.
2. Apply directly to IIVS Pty Ltd – Prepare your documents including academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), passport copy, and any required portfolio. Submit your application through the provider's website or admissions office. Pay attention to application deadlines and intake dates.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, IIVS Pty Ltd will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application. Include OSHC, evidence of funds for tuition and living expenses (approx. A$29,710 per year for a single student in Sydney), and a genuine temporary entrant statement. Seek migration advice if needed.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Contact IIVS Pty Ltd for application details and intake dates.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at IIVS 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.