
Build your future as a skilled locksmith. Help protect homes, businesses and sites using modern tools, technology and security systems. Gain practical skills to keep people and property secure.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
make and copy mechanical and electronic keys
service and repair mechanical locking systems
design and build master key systems
install door locks
gain legal entry to houses, commercial buildings, cars and safes
install and set up electronic access control, alarm and CCTV systems.
Learn core skills that prepare you for opportunities in your chosen field.
A nationally accredited qualification at a certificate III level.
The ability to work as a qualified locksmith for a range of employers or by starting your own business.
The ability to provide security advice.
A highly valued technical skill set for employment in Australia and overseas.
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol.
You must be employed as an apprentice in the industry.
Your Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) must submit your Training Proposal Plan (TPP).
Visit our apprenticeships and traineeships page for more information.
You must be at least 21 years old as shown by your photo ID.
You must be currently working in industry and have at least 2 years’ experience, shown by your resume and confirmation from your employer.
You must meet Smart and Skilled eligibility criteria.
During your study you'll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
willingness to undergo a criminal record check to get a security licence
problem-solving skills
an aptitude for working with your hands to perform installations and repairs
teamwork and collaboration skills
effective communication
reliability
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) at a Year 10 high school level
access to a computer with a good internet connection
the ability to provide your own personal protective equipment (PPE) including eye, hearing and feet protection.
You can follow a routine and ask for help if you need it.
You can read everyday texts and find important information.
You can write short sentences or lists to share information.
You can do everyday maths like working out prices or reading a timetable.
You can speak clearly and explain your thoughts in a group.
You can turn on a digital device and follow simple steps.
TAFE NSW may ask you to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test. This helps us understand your individual study needs and design a personalised plan to support your study success.
We tailor our courses to meet local community needs, so some campuses may have extra entry requirements. Check your preferred location for details. Need help preparing? Contact us for support.
This simple tool guides you to a suitable course level based on your foundation skills and confidence.
Our graduates go onto roles like:
Locksmiths install and maintain locks and related security devices and systems.
90%
1,000 workers
38 years
$1,040
43 hours
Medium
4% female
Strong Growth
Other jobs include: automotive locksmith specialist, safe technician, master key specialist and security electronics technician.
To work in the industry, you’ll need to get a NSW Class 2C Security Equipment Specialist security licence. Visit Service NSW for more information.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Learn core skills that prepare you for opportunities in your chosen field.
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.
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate III in Locksmithing qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 32 units of competency, including 12 core and 20 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.
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