OVERVIEW
What You’ll Learn
This qualification provides a trade outcome in painting and decorating for residential and commercial construction work. You'll develop the hands-on skills to prepare, apply and finish a full range of coatings — from interior and exterior wall systems to protective industrial coatings — across both new builds and renovation projects.
Painting and decorating is one of the last trades to be completed on any construction project, making skilled painters a constant requirement across the industry.
Skills Across This Program:
Surface preparation for interior and exterior painting
Applying primers, sealers, undercoats and topcoats
Using spray, brush and roller application techniques
Colour theory, matching and blending
Applying texture coatings and decorative finishes
Working safely with paints, solvents and protective coatings
Delivery & Assessment Note
The construction industry requires all training and assessment to be conducted in a real or closely simulated workplace environment. All units in this course are delivered in this context. Assessment includes written questions, practical observations, projects and skills demonstrations.
DELIVERY & STRUCTURE
How You’ll Train
Hands-on and real-world — structured learning with classroom, workshop and practical assessment
Industry-Experienced Instructors
Trainers bring first-hand experience from residential, commercial and industrial painting projects — real knowledge for real-world application.
60-Week Structured Program
52 weeks of training and assessment across structured study terms, with 8 weeks of scheduled holidays.
Blended Classroom & Hands-On Delivery
Theoretical knowledge is paired with extensive practical sessions — from brush technique to spray systems to surface preparation.
Practical Simulated Environments
Train on surfaces and systems that mirror real construction sites, developing your technique, speed and finishes to industry standard.
How You’ll Be Assessed
Assessment is competency-based and reflects real workplace expectations.
Methods include:
• Direct observation of practical tasks
• Structured project work
• Written knowledge assessments
• Simulated workplace scenarios
STUDY DETAILS
Entry Requirements & Pathways
Understand the requirements to enrol and where this qualification can take you.
Entry Requirements
Minimum age: 18 years
Year 10 completion or equivalent
IELTS 6.0 overall (or equivalent)
LLN assessment prior to enrolment
White Card (CPCCWHS1001) before commencing site work
Pathways
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40120)
Diploma of Building and Construction — Building (CPC50220)
Trade licensing as a painter in relevant state/territory
Specialisation in decorative, protective or industrial coatings
Course Brochure
CPC30220 Course Guide
Complete course details, units, fees, entry requirements and career outcomes.
Core Units
CPCCOM1012 — Work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry
CPCCWHS2001 — Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures
CPCCCM2008 — Read and interpret plans, specifications and drawings
CPCCPD3011 — Prepare and apply plaster render
CPCCPD3015 — Apply paint to previously coated surfaces
CPCCPD3016 — Prepare existing coated and uncoated surfaces
CPCCPD3017 — Apply texture coatings
CPCCPD3023 — Apply coating by spray application
Elective Units
7 elective units are selected in accordance with industry requirements and packaging rules. A minimum of 5 electives must be drawn from Group A. Full unit list available in the Course Guide.
Fees & Funding
Course Fees & Payment Information
Clear and straightforward — here's what you need to know about the cost of studying
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are confirmed at enrolment. Contact our admissions team for current fee schedules and to discuss your individual circumstances. Please note: fees are subject to change.
Payment Options
We offer flexible payment options including upfront payment, instalment plans, and payment via our secure online Payment Portal. Speak to our admissions team to find the right option for you.
Government Funding
Eligible domestic students may qualify for government-subsidised training or VET Student Loans. Contact our team to check your eligibility and understand your options before enrolling.
Compliance Note
Fees are subject to change. Refer to the official Course Guide for detailed fee schedules and refund policies.
Where This Takes You
Career Outcomes
This trade qualification opens real employment doors from day one.
Residential Painter and Decorator
Commercial Painter
Protective Coatings Applicator
Industrial Painter
Decorative Finish Specialist
Painting Contractor / Business Owner (with experience)
Frequently Asked Questions
Find the information you need to support your journey
What is the course code and title?
How long does the course run?
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Is this a nationally recognised qualification?
What are my study and career pathway options after this course?
Nationally recognised vocational training
CRICOS 03940J
RTO 45739
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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CRICOS: 03940J | RTO: 45739