Certificate III in Solid Plastering (CRICOS course code 119519C) is a Certificate III delivered by Bentley College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking entry-level skills in the construction industry, specifically in solid plastering. It falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04) with a specialisation in Plastering (040317). As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider code 03914M), it meets Australian government standards for international student enrolment. Bentley College Pty Ltd, a private college in Melbourne, offers this qualification to prepare students for roles as solid plasterers, a trade in high demand across Australia. The course equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in mixing and applying plaster, repairing surfaces, and working with decorative finishes. With no mandatory work component, students can focus on their studies while enjoying work rights of 48 hours per fortnight under a Student visa (Subclass 500). This course is ideal for those looking to start a career in building and construction in Australia.
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Certificate III in Solid Plastering falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04) and specifically within building construction and plastering. Graduates at this level typically learn to apply a range of skills in solid plastering, including preparing surfaces, mixing and applying plaster, installing cornices and mouldings, and performing repairs. They also gain knowledge of workplace health and safety, reading plans, and working in a team. While the exact syllabus is set by Bentley College Pty Ltd, general competencies for AQF Level 3 involve applying defined skills to complete routine and non-routine tasks, taking responsibility for own work outputs, and contributing to workplace processes. This course provides a pathway to further studies in building and construction or direct employment as a solid plasterer. Australia's construction industry continually seeks skilled plasterers, making this qualification valuable for international students planning to work in Australia post-study (subject to visa conditions).
The Certificate III in Solid Plastering is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or nested qualification). The course is offered full-time at Bentley College's Swanston Street Campus in Melbourne. There are no foundation studies or work component integrated. Students are expected to attend classes, practical workshops, and assessments as scheduled by the provider. The 52-week duration includes study periods and scheduled breaks, during which students may work unlimited hours if holding a valid Student visa. It is important to confirm the exact start dates and study weeks directly with Bentley College Pty Ltd, as CRICOS registers only the total duration.
The indicative fees for Certificate III in Solid Plastering at Bentley College Pty Ltd are as follows: Tuition fee: A$13,000; Non-tuition fee: A$3,000 (which may include materials, administration, or other course-related costs); Estimated total: A$16,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the provider. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges, which are NOT included. For a single student, OSHC costs around A$500–$700 per year, and living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at A$21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs 2026 guidelines). Always check the provider's website for the most current fee schedule before applying. Bentley College Pty Ltd's official website can be accessed via the CRICOS register.
For Certificate III level courses, typical entry requirements include completion of Year 11 or equivalent (Australian Year 11 or overseas secondary schooling). English language proficiency is usually required with an IELTS overall band score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent). Some providers may require a slightly higher score for safety-critical trades. Bentley College Pty Ltd may also consider work experience or prior study. There are no foundation or pathway options listed for this course; however, students who do not meet English requirements may consider a packaged English course. For specific academic prerequisites and English test equivalencies, contact Bentley College directly. Please note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance; the provider may also require an interview or skills assessment.
This course has no work component. The CRICOS register does not list a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). This work is not part of the course but can help support living expenses. It is important to balance work and study to maintain satisfactory course progress, failure of which could affect visa conditions.
This course is delivered at the Swanston Street Campus, located at Level 4, 55 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a population of over 5 million. It has a vibrant student community with over 200,000 international students and many CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–$350, groceries A$70–$120, and public transport A$40–$60 (Myki concession for international students may be available). The campus is centrally located near Flinders Street Station and tram stops, making it easily accessible. Swanston Street is a major thoroughfare with shops, cafes, and services.
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 plus additional time. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Under the ESOS Act, international students have legal rights including access to complaints processes and tuition protection. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants (if applicable) may also have work rights. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. It offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a strong economy with many job opportunities in construction and trades. The city has over 200,000 international students and a high number of CRICOS-registered providers (more than 200 in greater Melbourne). If you enjoy urban life, cultural diversity, and a moderate climate, Melbourne may be a great fit. However, the cost of living is higher than in smaller cities like Adelaide or Hobart. Consider your budget and personal preferences. Melbourne is known for its café culture, sports events, and festivals. For those interested in plastering, the construction industry in Melbourne is booming, with many residential and commercial projects requiring skilled tradespeople.
Ready to start your career in solid plastering? Research CRICOS-registered providers like Bentley College, check specific entry requirements, and apply directly. Visit our course page to compare similar courses in architecture and building.
Certificate III in Solid Plastering is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bentley College 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.