Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 120415A) is a Certificate III delivered by Thinkgate Learning Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~58 weeks). This course is designed for international students interested in the painting and decorating trade in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03482G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Based in Melbourne, Victoria, Thinkgate Learning offers this course at its campus on Flinders Street, providing students with access to a vibrant city known for its strong construction and building services sector. Graduates of this qualification typically gain the skills to apply paint, wallpapers, and decorative finishes in residential and commercial settings, preparing them for entry-level positions in the painting industry. With indicative tuition fees of A$15,000 and non-tuition fees of A$3,000, the estimated total cost is A$18,000. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the latest fee information, always check with Thinkgate Learning directly. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) sources data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have reliable information to plan your studies in Australia.
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Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CRICOS course code 120415A) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification delivered by Thinkgate Learning Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03482G). The course falls under the field of education 04 - Architecture and Building, specifically 0403 - Building, with a focus on 040325 - Painting, Decorating and Sign Writing. The national VET code for this course is CPC30620. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification or foundation studies). The language of instruction is English. The course duration is 1 year and 1 month (58 weeks), as registered on CRICOS. All CRICOS-registered courses are subject to the ESOS Act protections, meaning international students have legal rights regarding tuition assurance and refunds. As with all courses listed on HeadStart Academy, this data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia. Thinkgate Learning is a private provider with a strong focus on trade and vocational education, and its campus is located in Melbourne's central business district.
This qualification covers the skills and knowledge required for painting and decorating work in the construction industry. Students typically learn how to prepare surfaces, apply paint coatings, hang wallpaper, and use decorative finishes. The course also includes health and safety practices, communication with clients and colleagues, and interpreting work instructions. As a Certificate III level course (AQF Level 3), it involves a range of well-developed skills in known contexts, with some complexity and judgment required. Graduates are often prepared for roles such as painter, decorator, or painting team leader. While the specific syllabus is set by Thinkgate Learning, the field of education (040325) indicates that the content covers both practical and theoretical aspects of painting, decorating, and sign writing. This course is particularly relevant for students aiming to work in Australia's building and construction sector, which consistently demands skilled tradespeople, especially in growing cities like Melbourne.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is delivered over 1 year and 1 month, which equates to 58 weeks according to the CRICOS register. The course is taught in English. This is a single qualification — there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes at the provider's campus in Melbourne. The study mode is likely full-time, as is typical for CRICOS-registered courses for international students. The duration allows for both theoretical instruction and practical hands-on training, which is essential for trade qualifications. International students should ensure they can commit to the full course duration and meet attendance requirements, as student visa conditions often require satisfactory course progress. The course length is standard for a Certificate III in this field.
Indicative fees for this course, as recorded on the CRICOS register, are as follows: - Tuition fee: A$15,000 - Non-tuition fee: A$3,000 - Estimated total: A$18,000 Please remember that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Fees are set by Thinkgate Learning Pty Ltd. The non-tuition fee may cover materials, enrolment, or other administrative costs. It is important to confirm the exact fee structure with the provider before applying. For current fees, visit the official website of Thinkgate Learning at https://www.atlantis.edu.au. Note that the estimated total of A$18,000 does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international student visa holders, nor does it cover living costs (such as accommodation, food, and transport) or the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). As a guide, living costs in Melbourne typically range from A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year, including rent (approximately A$300–A$500 per week), groceries, and public transport. You should budget accordingly.
Entry requirements for international students are set by Thinkgate Learning and generally reflect the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level. For a Certificate III course, typical requirements include completion of Year 11 or equivalent in your home country. English language proficiency is required, and the suggested minimum IELTS score is 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may accept alternative English tests like TOEFL or PTE. Additionally, prior experience or study in a related field may be beneficial but is not always mandatory. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements — please check with Thinkgate Learning directly. Always verify the specific entry criteria with the institution, as they may have additional requirements. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual applications; we recommend contacting the provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
This course has no work component. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component' for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (120415A). This means that the course does not include a mandatory work placement, internship, or practical work experience as part of the curriculum. However, students may still be eligible to work part-time under their student visa conditions. Student visa (Subclass 500) holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Work should not interfere with your study commitments. While the course itself does not require work, gaining industry experience through part-time jobs or volunteering can enhance your skills and employability after graduation.
The course is delivered at: Level 14/474 Flinders St — MELBOURNE, VIC 3000 This location is in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, easily accessible by public transport. Flinders Street is a major thoroughfare, and the campus is near Flinders Street Station, one of Melbourne's busiest train stations. Melbourne is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a top destination for international students. The city has a large student population, with world-class amenities, cultural diversity, and a thriving construction industry. If you choose to study painting and decorating in Melbourne, you will have access to a robust job market in building and trades. The campus is also close to restaurants, accommodation options, and other student services. Consider visiting the provider's website for more details about facilities and campus life.
International students studying this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain this visa, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, meet English language requirements, and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during your course and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance to keep your visa valid. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs sets these requirements, and they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — for personalised assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. As a CRICOS-registered course, this program qualifies you for a student visa application, and the provider will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) once you accept the offer.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities and is a top choice for international students. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a strong economy. For students of painting and decorating, Melbourne's booming construction sector provides numerous job opportunities and industry connections. However, living costs can be high. Indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$300–A$500), groceries (A$80–A$150), and transport (A$40–A$60). The city has over 200,000 international students, so you'll find a diverse community. The campus at Flinders Street is centrally located, making it easy to explore Melbourne's laneways, parks, and beaches. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences when deciding. If you prefer a quieter or more affordable setting, other cities like Brisbane or Adelaide might be alternatives. But for a vibrant trade-focused education, Melbourne is hard to beat.
To apply for Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (120415A) at Thinkgate Learning Pty Ltd, follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Thinkgate Learning (CRICOS 03482G) is the right provider for you. Check their website for detailed course information, campus facilities, and student support services.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 5.0–5.5), and any other required documents. Submit your application through Thinkgate Learning's admissions portal or by contacting their international admissions office. Be mindful of application deadlines, which can vary.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE compliance. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department's website.
Visit Thinkgate Learning's website to apply or request more information about Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (120415A).
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a CRICOS-registered programme at Thinkgate Learning 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.