OverviewAbout this course

    The Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to run your own building enterprise or advance your career in the construction industry. You will gain insights into building and construction codes and standards, project management and preparing building sketches and drawings.

    In this course, you'll learn to interpret plans, estimate costs, apply structural principles and follow safe work practices. You will develop your teamwork and communication skills, and gain practical experience in various aspects of building and construction.

    Graduates will be well prepared to plan and execute projects efficiently, meet legal obligations and contribute to sustainable construction practices.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:

    • Plan, prepare, read and interpret building and construction plans, contracts and specifications
    • Identify and estimate building costs
    • Schedule ordering of materials and labour
    • Supervise projects
    • Interpret building codes and standards for residential and commercial constructions

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in: 

    • Reading and interpreting plans, sketches, drawings and specifications
    • Estimating costs
    • Submitting building applications, submissions and file notes
    • Applying structural principles to your building and construction work
    • Adhering to safe work practices
    • Working collaboratively with others

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • A passion for working on building and construction projects
    • An interest in working in a variety of environments indoors and outdoors
    • A strong work ethic
    • Effective communication and people skills
    • The ability to work as part of a team
    • High attention to detail

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Builder
    • Construction supervisor
    • Site manager
    • Site supervisor
    • Estimator

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    To achieve this qualification, the candidate must demonstrate competency in: 19 units of competency: 11 core units 8 elective units. To achieve the occupational outcome of Builder electives must include: All Group A elective units
    Up to two elective units from either Group B or general electives. One elective unit may be from any training package or accredited course as long as it ensures the integrity of the qualification’s and contributes to a valid, industry supported vocational outcome

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Apply building codes and standards to the construction process for Class 1 and 10 BuildingsCPCCBC4001

    • Manage work health and safety in the building and construction workplaceCPCCBC4002

    • Plan building or construction workCPCCBC4007

    • Supervise site communication and administration processes for building and construction projectsCPCCBC4008

    • Apply legal requirements to building and construction projectsCPCCBC4009

    • Apply structural principles to residential and commercial constructionsCPCCBC4010

    • Read and interpret plans and specificationsCPCCBC4012

    • Prepare simple building sketches and drawingsCPCCBC4014

    • Apply site surveys and set-out procedures to building and construction projectsCPCCBC4018

    • Minimise waste on the building and construction siteCPCCBC4021

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Build your expertise with a TAFE NSW building and construction study pathway:


    You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service 
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support  
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service  
    • Smarthinking – online access to a tutor 
    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International