Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 118944E) is a Certificate III delivered by Unity School Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This qualification is recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3) and is designed to equip international students with the practical skills and knowledge required for a career in painting and decorating. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider code 03579K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Whether you're aiming to work in residential or commercial construction, this course provides a solid foundation in surface preparation, paint application, decorative finishes, and workplace safety. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate the CRICOS register to find the right course. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This course falls under the field of education '04 - Architecture and Building', specifically '0403 - Building' with a focus on '040325 - Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing'. At the Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students typically learn to apply a broad range of painting and decorating skills under supervision. Graduates will be able to select and prepare surfaces, mix and apply paints and coatings, use decorative techniques, and work safely on construction sites. The curriculum also covers reading and interpreting plans, estimating material requirements, and communicating with clients. While HeadStart Academy does not provide detailed syllabi, this general guidance aligns with national competency standards for the VET code CPC30620. Practical training is a key component, with hands-on experience in simulated work environments.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is delivered over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The course is taught in English and is a single qualification — it is not a dual qualification nor a foundation studies program. Students will attend classes, practical workshops, and assessments. Study mode may vary by campus; contact Unity School Pty Ltd for specific timetables. This duration reflects full-time study load as required by student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$14,000, with non-tuition fees of A$3,500, bringing the estimated total to A$17,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Unity School Pty Ltd at www.ued.edu.au. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, travel costs, and the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for a Student visa (Subclass 500) are not included. As a guide, international students in Australia should budget around A$21,041 per year for living costs (Department of Home Affairs), with variations by city. For example, Hobart is generally more affordable than Perth, but both offer student-friendly environments.
While specific entry requirements are set by Unity School Pty Ltd, international students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (no band less than 5.0). Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent, as this is a Certificate III level course. Prior experience in painting or construction may be beneficial but not always required. Some providers may offer foundation or pathway programs if you do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check with the provider for the most accurate prerequisites. Importantly, all students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as a holder of a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs and gain Australian work experience.
Unity School Pty Ltd delivers this course at four campuses: City Campus in HOBART, TAS; East Perth Campus in EAST PERTH, WA; Perth Campus in WEST PERTH, WA; and Tasmania Campus in Derwent Park, TAS. Each location offers access to local painting and construction industries. Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, has a growing construction sector and a cost of living lower than major cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, offers a vibrant economy with strong demand for skilled trades. Students at these campuses benefit from public transport networks; for example, Hobart's Metro bus system and Perth's Transperth services connect campuses to surrounding suburbs.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. As mentioned, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Importantly, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements apply — you must show you can cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying to study is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Architecture and Building), and city (Hobart, Perth, etc.). Ensure the course code 118944E matches your interest.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Unity School Pty Ltd to confirm entry requirements, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), application deadlines, and required documents. Submit your application online or via the admissions office.
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 Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate sufficient funds.
Choosing between Tasmania and Western Australia depends on your lifestyle and career goals. Tasmania (campuses in Hobart and Derwent Park) offers a cooler climate, stunning natural landscapes, and a close-knit community. The construction industry is steady, with renovation and new builds prominent. Living costs are lower: weekly rent for a share house in Hobart averages A$150-200, groceries around A$80-100. Public transport is adequate but limited in outer suburbs. Western Australia (Perth and East Perth) has a warmer climate, a booming economy, and higher wages but also higher living costs: rent in Perth averages A$200-300 per week. Both states have strong painting and decorating job prospects due to ongoing development. Consider your preferences for climate, cost, and networking opportunities.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Contact Unity School Pty Ltd directly to discuss your application, or use HeadStart Academy's search tools to explore more courses.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Unity School 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.