Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 119937G) is a Certificate III delivered by Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 11 months (~101 weeks). This AQF Level 3 qualification falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically in Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing (040325). Students gain practical skills in surface preparation, applying paints and coatings, decorative finishes, and workplace safety. Graduates can pursue careers as painting contractors, decorators, or continue into supervisory roles. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03208D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource helping you navigate over 26,000 courses across Australia. Note: This course does not include a mandatory work component.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating equips students with the technical skills and knowledge required to work in the painting and decorating industry. The curriculum covers surface preparation, applying paint, stains, and clear finishes, decorative painting techniques, wallpapering, and safe handling of materials and equipment. Students also learn about colour theory, estimating materials, and workplace communication. This qualification aligns with the CPC30620 national VET code and reflects the competencies needed for trade-level roles. Training includes both theoretical instruction and practical hands-on experience. At the end of the course, students are prepared to work as qualified painters in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The course is delivered entirely in English, and students must demonstrate English proficiency to enrol.
The course duration is 1 year 11 months, equivalent to 101 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program, and international students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. Students should plan their accommodation and living arrangements accordingly, as the course requires consistent attendance. The provider may offer study breaks between terms, during which visa holders can work unlimited hours (subject to visa conditions).
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$40,000, with non-tuition fees of A$6,500, making an estimated total of A$46,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor does it cover living expenses or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always confirm directly with Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd via their website (www.georgebrown.nsw.edu.au). Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$30,000–A$40,000 per year, including rent, groceries, and transport. Weekly rent in Haymarket can range from A$300–$600 for a room or studio. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting carefully and reviewing the Department of Home Affairs financial capacity requirements.
Applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent in their home country. English proficiency is required, typically IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may also require a pre-training assessment or interview. There are no formal prerequisite subjects, but prior experience in trade or construction may be advantageous. No foundation studies are offered for this course. For exact entry requirements, contact Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd directly. Note: Meeting the minimum English score does not guarantee admission, as each provider assesses applications holistically.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake a work placement or internship as part of the program. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain relevant industry experience while studying.
The course is delivered at George Brown College, located at Level 5, 191-199 Thomas St, Haymarket, NSW 2000. Haymarket is in the heart of Sydney's CBD, adjacent to Chinatown and Central Station. This prime location offers excellent public transport links, including trains, buses, and light rail. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, and it attracts a large international student population. The campus is close to libraries, cafes, and student services, providing a vibrant study environment. Students should consider Sydney's high cost of living when planning their budget.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights as described above. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which ensures tuition fee protection, course quality, and student support. Visa holders must maintain enrollment, attend classes, and make satisfactory course progress. They must also hold OSHC for the duration of their stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies — students must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Haymarket is a dynamic inner-city suburb known for its multicultural atmosphere, markets, and proximity to Sydney's major attractions. Living here means easy access to Central Station, Darling Harbour, and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). The area has a high density of international students from various countries. Weekly expenses for a single student: rent A$300–$600, groceries A$100–$150, transport A$40–$50. Many students share apartments to reduce costs. The campus location makes it convenient to explore Sydney's cultural and professional opportunities. HeadStart Academy's NSW study hub (see internal links) provides more information on studying in this state.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating at Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the provider's current registration on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy) and submit an application through the provider's website (www.georgebrown.nsw.edu.au). Check application deadlines and entry requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
Ready to start your painting and decorating career? Begin your application today by contacting Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Captain Cook Institute 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.