Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 118484F) is a Certificate III delivered by Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This qualification equips students with the skills to apply paint, wallpaper, and other finishes to residential and commercial surfaces, as well as to prepare surfaces for decoration. It is ideal for those seeking a trade career in Australia's construction industry, where demand for qualified painters remains strong. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider 02996A), it meets the Australian Government's standards for international student enrolment. Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd operates under the brand Danford Education (www.danford.edu.au) and delivers training from two Melbourne campuses. The course is part of the Architecture and Building field (040325 - Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing), providing a pathway to employment or further study in the building and construction sector. International students benefit from Australia's robust student visa framework and ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
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The course covers the core skills required for a professional painter and decorator in Australia. Students learn to prepare surfaces by cleaning, filling, and sanding; apply paint using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment; mix and match colours; hang wallpaper and wall coverings; and work safely on construction sites. The curriculum aligns with the VET national code CPC30620 and includes units on workplace health and safety (WHS), communication, and teamwork. Graduates typically gain competencies to work independently or as part of a team on residential, commercial, and industrial projects. This AQF Level 3 qualification provides a foundation for further specialisation or supervisory roles in the building industry.
The course is scheduled for 1 year 2 months (60 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at either the Flinders Street Campus or the Trade Workshop in Port Melbourne, with practical training taking place in real workshop environments. The single qualification structure allows students to focus entirely on gaining the Certificate III without additional bridging components.
Tuition fees for this course are A$24,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$6,000, totalling an estimated A$30,000. These fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For current fees and payment options, always refer to the provider's website at www.danford.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs such as accommodation, transport, and course materials.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. For this Certificate III level, applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications or experience in painting or construction may be advantageous but are not mandatory. No foundation or pathway programs are offered with this course; applicants who do not meet entry requirements should contact the provider directly for alternative options.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake an internship or work placement as part of the qualification. However, casual employment may be possible under student visa conditions.
The course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: - Flinders Street Campus: Level 9, 525 Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. This campus is in the heart of the CBD, close to Flinders Street Station and public transport. - Trade Workshop: 235 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne VIC 3207. This dedicated workshop facility provides hands-on training in a real trade environment. Melbourne is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$30,000–A$40,000 per year for a single student, including rent (A$250–A$400/week), groceries, and transport. The city offers extensive train, tram, and bus networks, making both campuses easily accessible.
International students enrolled in this course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to current visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. All students under a CRICOS-registered course are protected by the ESOS Act, which ensures quality education and consumer rights.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a major education hub with a vibrant arts and culture scene. The city's construction industry is booming, creating strong demand for skilled painters and decorators. With a diverse population and excellent public transport, Melbourne offers a rich lifestyle for international students. Consider factors like climate (cool winters, warm summers), cost of living (higher than regional areas), and proximity to beaches and parks. This course's locations in the CBD and Port Melbourne provide easy access to work opportunities and amenities.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Follow the steps below to apply for this CRICOS-registered course.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Star Gazers Education 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.