CPC30620 Painting

CPC30620 Certificate III in Painting and Decorating

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About this exam

CPC30620 Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is a nationally recognised trade qualification listed on the National Training Register. It is designed for people working in, or preparing to work in, painting and decorating for residential and commercial construction, and the register names Painter and Decorator as the typical occupational title. The qualification is suitable for an Australian Apprenticeship pathway, and the register states there are no entry requirements. To be awarded the qualification, a candidate must demonstrate competency in 29 units of competency: 26 core units and 3 elective units. The core units cover the practical heart of the trade, including handling and storing painting materials, preparing uncoated and previously coated surfaces, applying paint by brush, roller and spray, matching specific paint colours, applying stains and clear timber finishes, removing and applying wallpaper, decorative and texture coat finishes, and protective coating systems. Safety content is embedded throughout, with units on working safely at heights, restricted height scaffolding, trestle and plank systems, lead-painted surfaces and asbestos encapsulation. The three electives are chosen from the listed electives, or two from the list plus one from any endorsed Training Package or accredited course that supports a valid, industry-relevant vocational outcome at this AQF level. Preparation should follow the packaging rules: confirm which electives your provider offers, check prerequisite units are assessed first, and complete the general construction induction training required for construction work.

What you'll study

Common questions

About CPC30620 Painting preparation

How many units do I need to complete for CPC30620?

You must demonstrate competency in 29 units of competency: 26 core units and 3 elective units. Both figures come from the packaging rules on the National Training Register entry for this qualification. Your registered training organisation will confirm the specific elective combination it delivers.

How are the elective units chosen?

You can take 3 units from the listed electives, or 2 from the listed electives plus 1 unit from any endorsed Training Package or accredited course. The imported unit must contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome and support the AQF level of this qualification.

Are there any entry requirements?

The register states there are no entry requirements for this qualification. However, anyone carrying out construction work must complete the general construction induction training program specified in the Safe Work Australia model Code of Practice: Construction Work, and CPCWHS1001 meets that requirement.

What does the general construction induction requirement mean for me?

The qualification description says completion of the general construction induction training program is required by anyone carrying out construction work. Achievement of CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry meets this requirement. Check with your provider about how this is scheduled alongside your other units.

What do the asterisks next to unit codes mean?

An asterisk against a unit code indicates a prerequisite requirement that must be met. Prerequisite units must be assessed before assessment of any unit carrying an asterisk, and all prerequisite requirements are packaged in the qualification. Plan your study order so those foundation units are completed first.

What topics does the qualification cover?

Core units cover surface preparation, applying paint by brush, roller and spray, colour matching, stains and clear timber finishes, wallpaper, decorative and texture finishes, protective coatings, and safe handling of lead-painted surfaces and non-friable asbestos. Supporting units cover measurements, calculations, cost calculations, plans and specifications, communication, and workplace safety.

Is this qualification suitable for an apprenticeship?

Yes. The register states the qualification is suitable for an Australian Apprenticeship pathway. That means much of your training and assessment is typically arranged around paid work with an employer, alongside structured off-the-job learning with a registered training organisation.

Does licensing differ between states and territories?

Yes. The register notes that licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements for painting and decorating work differ between states and territories, and advises consulting the relevant regulatory authority. Qualification completion alone does not guarantee a licence, so confirm local requirements before advertising or contracting for work.

Which version of the qualification is current?

The register shows Release 5, which updated the reference to the general construction induction training program. Earlier releases recorded corrections to a unit title, a training package title and a unit code typographical error. Always check the National Training Register for the release your provider is delivering.