Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 119829M) is a Certificate III delivered by Tham Training Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This qualification, listed on the official CRICOS register (April 2026), is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in the building and construction industry. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 26,000 courses. Tham Training Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03664B) is a private provider offering this course in Melbourne, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the ESOS Act requirements, ensuring quality education and student protections. Whether you're looking to start a career in painting and decorating or upgrade your existing skills, this page gives you the key details: fees, duration, entry requirements, and visa essentials.
This Certificate III falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Building (0403) and Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (040325). At AQF Level 3, graduates gain practical skills in surface preparation, paint application, colour matching, and decorative finishes. The course covers workplace safety, estimating material requirements, and using industry-standard tools. While the exact syllabus is set by Tham Training Pty Ltd, typical topics include: applying paint and coatings, preparing surfaces for painting, removing and replacing doors and windows, and working safely at heights. Students also learn about customer service, teamwork, and environmental sustainability on worksites. Completion can lead to roles as a painter, decorator, or sign writer, or further study in building and construction management. All content is delivered in English, and the course is designed to meet Australian industry standards.
The course runs for 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Tham Training Pty Ltd offers full-time study, typically requiring around 20–25 contact hours per week. Students should also factor in additional study time for assignments and practical projects. The course is delivered face-to-face at the Melbourne campus, providing hands-on training in real workshop environments.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating are indicated at A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$4,000, giving an estimated total of A$22,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Tham Training Pty Ltd. The indicative total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website directly. As a guide, international students in Melbourne typically need around A$30,000–A$35,000 per year for living costs, including rent (A$400–A$600 per week), groceries, and transport.
Entry requirements are set by Tham Training Pty Ltd. As a general guide for Certificate III level, students are expected to have completed Year 10 (or equivalent) in their home country. English language proficiency is typically required at IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may accept other tests like TOEFL or PTE. No prior vocational experience is necessary, but basic numeracy and literacy skills are recommended. If you don't meet the requirements, some providers offer foundation or pathway programs – check with Tham Training Pty Ltd for options.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Practical training is built into the course through simulated workplace environments at the campus.
The course is delivered at Victorian College of Education Australia, Queen Street Campus, located in Melbourne's CBD. Melbourne is Victoria's capital, home to over 300,000 international students (largest student city in Australia) and hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. The Queen Street campus is well-served by public transport, with trams and trains nearby. Living costs in Melbourne are around A$400–A$600 per week for rent, plus groceries and transport. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and strong job opportunities in construction and trade sectors.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language requirements. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory and costs around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund rights. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Melbourne is Australia's leading student city, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and a strong construction industry. If you choose to study painting and decorating here, you'll benefit from a thriving building sector, especially with major infrastructure projects. The city has a moderate climate, excellent healthcare, and a multicultural environment. However, living costs are higher than regional areas. Consider your budget, career goals, and study preferences. Melbourne's extensive public transport network makes commuting easy. For more insights, explore our Melbourne study guide.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Tham Training Pty Ltd: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses. Filter by level (Certificate III), field (Architecture and Building), and location (Melbourne). 2. Apply directly: Contact Tham Training Pty Ltd via their website or application portal. Submit required documents: academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), passport copy, and a statement of purpose. Check application deadlines as they vary. 3. Get your CoE and visa: If accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE criteria.
Ready to apply? Visit Tham Training Pty Ltd's website for current fees and admission details.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Tham Training 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.