
Become a trade licensed painter and decorator. Learn to transform residential and commercial buildings with specialist techniques. Set yourself up for success in an in-demand industry.
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.
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.
Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol.
There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.
This course can be completed as part of an apprenticeship. Enquire today to check the eligibility 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.
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.
You can plan your work and try to solve problems on your own.
You can read everyday texts and find important information.
You can write short sentences or lists to share information.
You can speak clearly and explain your thoughts in a group.
You can solve maths problems you often see in real life.
You can use email, search the internet and open files.
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:
Painting Trades Workers apply paint, varnish, wallpaper and other finishes to protect, maintain and decorate surfaces of buildings and structures.
77%
15,400 workers
42 years
$1,090
42 hours
Medium
3% female
Moderate Growth
Other jobs include: painter and decorator.
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 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.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
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.
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.
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
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 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.
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