Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS 120125M)

Course Overview

Certificate III in Carpentry is a vocational qualification at AQF Level 3 under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Carpentry and Joinery (040311). The national VET code is CPC30220. This course provides foundational skills in constructing, installing, and repairing wooden structures, including framing, roofing, and formwork. Graduates typically work as carpenters in residential and commercial construction. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but work experience may be arranged by the student. All delivery is in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies. The provider, Auscanus Institute of Australia Pty Ltd, is a private college with CRICOS registration 04062J. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many options for international students interested in trade careers.

What You'll Study

The Certificate III in Carpentry covers a broad range of practical and theoretical skills essential for a career in carpentry. Students learn to read and interpret plans, select and use materials, operate hand and power tools, and apply safe work practices. Typical units include workplace safety, construction of timber floors and walls, roof framing, installation of windows and doors, and finishing techniques. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, the course is designed to meet national training package requirements. This qualification is aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 3, which indicates a level of competence involving the application of a broad range of skills in varied contexts. Graduates may also choose to further their studies with a Certificate IV or Diploma in Building and Construction.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, Certificate III in Carpentry (120125M) runs for 1 year, equating to 52 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. There is no part-time or online delivery option recorded on CRICOS; as a hands-on trade, the course is delivered face-to-face in a workshop environment. This is a single qualification — it does not offer dual awards or foundation studies. Students should plan for a full-time study commitment of around 20-25 hours per week, including classes and self-directed learning.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition fees for Certificate III in Carpentry at Auscanus Institute are indicative at A$20,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, and student services) are estimated at A$1,250, bringing the total to A$21,250. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution — they may change without notice. Always check the provider's website at www.auscanus.edu.au for current fees. Additional costs not included in the course fees include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For living costs, international students should budget approximately A$500–A$700 per week in Melbourne for accommodation, groceries, and public transport.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry requirements for Certificate III in Carpentry are determined by Auscanus Institute. As a general guide, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically an IELTS score between 5.0 and 5.5 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, prior qualifications such as completion of Year 10 or 11 in the home country are often expected for AQF Level 3 courses. Some providers may also require a pre-training assessment or relevant work experience. For specific requirements, including accepted English tests and academic equivalents, contact the provider directly. If you do not meet English requirements, pathway programs may be available — check with Auscanus Institute for options. Note that these are general guidelines; exact criteria are at the discretion of the institution.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no structured internship or placement requirement as part of the program. However, students may choose to seek voluntary work or part-time employment during their studies, subject to student visa conditions. Practical training is delivered through in-class workshops and simulated work environments.

Delivery Locations

Certificate III in Carpentry (120125M) is delivered at the Melbourne campus of Auscanus Institute of Australia Pty Ltd. Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and one of Australia's largest and most multicultural cities, home to over 220,000 international students across dozens of CRICOS-registered institutions. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting campuses to accommodation hubs. Weekly rent in Melbourne averages A$300–A$500 for a shared apartment or student housing. Groceries and transport add approximately A$150–A$200 per week. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria alone, Melbourne is a top destination for vocational studies. For more on studying in Victoria, visit our Victoria study guide.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion — must demonstrate genuine intention to study and return home; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory health insurance for the duration of the visa; Financial capacity — proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year for a single student), travel, and dependents if any; English proficiency — meet the provider's English requirement (usually IELTS 5.0–5.5). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All conditions are subject to the Department of Home Affairs. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy provides this guidance as a general overview only.

How to Apply for Certificate III in Carpentry

Applying for Certificate III in Carpentry at Auscanus Institute of Australia Pty Ltd is straightforward: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Architecture and Building), and location (Melbourne). Confirm that the provider is listed on CRICOS. 2. Apply directly to Auscanus Institute — Check entry requirements (academic transcripts, English test scores) and submit your application through the provider's website or admissions office. Pay attention to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa — Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to submit your Student visa (Subclass 500) application to the Department of Home Affairs.

Living and Studying in Melbourne

Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities, known for its cultural diversity, arts scene, and high-quality education. For international students, especially those in vocational studies, Melbourne offers a strong job market in construction and trades. The city has a large student population, with excellent support services for international students. However, consider the cost of living: weekly expenses can range from A$500 to A$700. Public transport is efficient but requires a myki card. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable setting, regional Victoria may be an alternative. For more on studying in Victoria, check our Victoria state guide.

Ready to start your carpentry career in Australia? Search CRICOS courses now on HeadStart Academy.

Related pages