Certificate III in Solid Plastering

Certificate III in Solid Plastering (CRICOS 118485E)

Certificate III in Solid Plastering (CRICOS course code 118485E) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02996A) over 1 year. This course belongs to the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Plastering (040317), and is designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge required for solid plastering work in the construction industry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students and provides access to the Student visa (Subclass 500). Whether you're aiming to work as a plasterer in Australia or advance your building trade skills, this qualification offers a pathway to employment or further study. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, trustworthy information. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you navigate your study options in Australia.

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What You'll Study

This course falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), with a specific focus on Building (0403) and Plastering (040317). At Certificate III level, students typically develop trade-level skills in applying solid plaster, including rendering, decorative finishes, and repair work. The curriculum covers safe work practices, material selection, and the use of tools and equipment. Graduates may be employed as solid plasterers in residential and commercial construction, or pursue further qualifications such as Certificate IV in Building and Construction or a Diploma of Building. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, this level aligns with national competency standards for the construction industry in Australia. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality assurance under the ESOS Act.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration is 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation course), meaning you will graduate with a standalone Certificate III in Solid Plastering. Study mode details (e.g., full-time, classroom-based, workshop practicals) should be confirmed directly with Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress to comply with your Student visa conditions. Australia's ESOS Act protects your rights, including access to a refund if the provider fails to deliver the course.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition: A$20,000 | Non-tuition fees: A$5,000 | Estimated total: A$25,000. These figures are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs (estimated at A$400–A$600 per week in Melbourne for rent, groceries, and transport) or the visa application charge. Always check the latest fees on the provider's website (www.danford.edu.au) before applying. Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd sets its own fees, and changes may occur. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees — we provide free, independent data.

Entry Requirements

Indicative English requirement: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). For Certificate III level, providers typically expect completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) and/or a relevant Certificate II qualification. Some providers may also require a pre-training assessment or industry experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet entry criteria — contact Star Gazers Education directly for details. All applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency, academic qualifications, and a genuine intention to study (GTE criterion). HeadStart Academy recommends checking specific entry requirements on the provider's website and consulting a registered migration agent for visa eligibility.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a full-time study program without a built-in work placement or internship. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time work experience and offset living costs. Remember that work rights are tied to visa conditions; you must prioritise your studies. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for work-related visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Flinders Street Campus (Level 9, 525 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000) and Trade Workshop (235 Ingles St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207). Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top destination for international students, with over 400 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting both campuses to the CBD and suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne range from A$400–A$600 weekly, with affordable student accommodation near the Flinders Street area. Port Melbourne is a short tram ride from the city centre. When choosing a location, consider proximity to your accommodation, transport links, and access to part-time work opportunities.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: enrollment in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and satisfactory English proficiency. As a visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and full-time during holidays. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act provides tuition protection if your provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa application assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Solid Plastering at Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses. Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Architecture and Building), and city (Melbourne). Confirm that Star Gazers Education (CRICOS 02996A) is actively offering this course.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents) and application deadlines on the provider's website (www.danford.edu.au). Submit your application along with supporting documents. The provider may request an interview or additional evidence.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to submit a visa application to the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Contact a registered migration agent for tailored advice.

Is Melbourne Right for You?

Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its arts, coffee culture, and strong construction industry. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Melbourne alone hosts hundreds of institutions offering VET courses in building trades. For a Certificate III in Solid Plastering, consider that plastering is in demand in both residential and commercial sectors. Melbourne's climate is temperate, with no extreme heat, making construction work feasible year-round. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, but you'll need to budget carefully. Public transport is extensive, but if you choose the Port Melbourne workshop, a bicycle or car may be convenient. HeadStart Academy helps you weigh these factors to make an informed decision.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Plastering Course

Plastering is a hands-on trade requiring physical stamina and attention to detail. At Certificate III level, you'll learn both wet and dry plastering techniques. Before enrolling, consider your career goals: do you want to work as an employee, become a contractor, or eventually run your own business? Further study (e.g., Certificate IV in Building) can lead to supervisory roles. Also, check if the course includes a solid plastering specialisation or covers both solid and fibrous plaster. Star Gazers Education's course focuses on solid plastering. Finally, verify that the provider has adequate workshop facilities — the Trade Workshop in Port Melbourne suggests practical training. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting the campus if possible.

Ready to start your journey? Visit Star Gazers Education's website (www.danford.edu.au) to apply today, or explore more Certificate III courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy.

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Source-backed course facts

Certificate III in Solid Plastering 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Certificate III in Solid Plastering
CRICOS course code
118485E
Provider
Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd (02996A)
Course level
Certificate III
Field of education
04 - Architecture and Building
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$20,000
Estimated total (indicative)
A$25,000
Delivery locations
Melbourne, PORT MELBOURNE
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative total fee is A$25,000, comprising A$20,000 tuition and A$5,000 non-tuition costs. This does not include OSHC (approx. A$600–A$800 per year for single cover), living expenses (around A$400–A$600 per week in Melbourne), or the visa application fee (currently A$710). Fees are set by the provider and subject to change. Always confirm with Star Gazers Education at www.danford.edu.au for the most current pricing.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. This is a full-time program. The exact study schedule (e.g., class hours per week, term breaks) should be obtained from the provider. You must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your Student visa conditions.
Indicative entry requirements include an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) or a relevant Certificate II. Some providers may also require a pre-training assessment or evidence of relevant industry experience. Contact Star Gazers Education for specific prerequisites and any pathway options if you don't meet the standard criteria.
The course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Flinders Street Campus (Level 9, 525 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000) and Trade Workshop (235 Ingles St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207). Both are well-connected by public transport. Melbourne is home to over 400 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a rich student experience.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$25,000 for Certificate III in Solid Plastering (tuition A$20,000). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 118485E, offered by Star Gazers Education Pty Ltd (provider code 02996A). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.