OverviewAbout this course
Get the skills to become a trade licensed painter and decorator. Learn to transform residential and commercial buildings with specialist techniques, and set yourself up for success in an in-demand industry.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Prepare different surfaces for painting
Apply paint using various tools and equipment
Apply decorative wallpaper
Create textured surfaces
Communicate with clients to achieve their vision
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
Experience working on residential and commercial interiors
A sound understanding of work health and safety in the construction industry
Eligibility to apply for a painting trade licence
Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
Check the campus page for requirements to take this course as an apprenticeship
This course may also be offered as a non-apprenticeship. Enquire today to discuss your eligibility
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
A general construction induction card (commonly known as a white card) – you will need this before you can enter a construction site
A Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test and achieve a score of 3 across the two bands of learning and oral communication, a score of 2 across two bands of literacy, a score of 1 across one band of digital literacy and a and 3 across one band of numeracy. This skills test helps us to understand your individual study needs and to provide you with the appropriate support for your study success.
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
The ability to work independently and in a team
An intermediate level of fitness to manage physical demands
Comfort working at heights
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like:
Painting Trades Worker
Painting Trades Workers apply paint, varnish, wallpaper and other finishes to protect, maintain and decorate surfaces of buildings and structures.
Full-time share Full-time workers usually work 35 hours or more a week (in all their jobs combined).
77%
Employment size Employment size is the number of workers who do this as their main job.
15,400 workers
Average age This is the average age of all workers in this job.
42 years
Weekly pay Median earnings are shown for full-time, non-managerial employees paid at the adult rate, before tax or any amounts that are salary sacrificed. These figures are a guide to earnings only and should not be used to determine a wage rate.
$1,090
Average full-time The average full-time hours that people in this role work each week.
42 hours
Skill level rating Skill level ratings are based on the range and complexity of job roles. In general, the higher the skill level, the more formal education and training, previous experience or on-the-job training needed to be good at the job.
Medium
Gender share
3% female
Future growth The Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business estimates the likely change in number of workers in this role, or industry, over the next 5 years. Future growth is the likely percentage change compared to all other job roles.
Moderate Growth
Other jobs include: Painter and decorator
Licensing
A white card (or general construction induction card) is required for any worker who needs to access a construction site. Local regulations should also be checked for requirements. Visit the [SafeWork website] (https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/licences-and-registrations/white-cards) for more information on applying for your white card. This is a licensed occupation. When you successfully complete the Certificate III in Painting and Decorating you can apply for licensing with NSW Fair Trading. They are the licensing and regulatory authority for trades in NSW. Visit NSW Fair Trading for more information.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study0 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Further study0 Courses
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
The Certificate III in Painting and Decorating does not have any post-graduate courses.
Related study1 Course
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate III in Painting and Decorating qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 29 Units of competency, including 26 core and 3 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffoldingCPCCCM2008
Work safely at heightsCPCCCM2012
Operate elevated work platforms up to 11 metresCPCCCM3001
Calculate costs of construction workCPCCCM3005
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TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community