Course Overview

About This Course

The Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220) is a trade-level qualification that teaches you everything you need to become a qualified carpenter in Australia. You'll learn to read building plans, use power tools safely, construct timber frames and formwork, install flooring, doors and windows, build stairs, and work on scaffolding and footings. This course focuses on residential construction, covering building, renovation and maintenance work. You'll gain hands-on skills while learning essential measurements, calculations, and work health and safety practices to meet industry standards. This nationally recognised qualification lets you work for construction companies, specialise in areas like formwork or shopfitting, or start your own carpentry business. Available via apprenticeship (workplace delivery, 3 to 4 years), on-campus domestic (Brisbane and Perth, 65 weeks), on-campus international (Brisbane and Perth, 2 years full-time), and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL, 2–8 weeks, virtual assessment).

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

On campus – Domestic: 18+ years old; Access to a computer/device capable of reading documents + internet; General Construction Induction: Statement of Attainment CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry; Completion of LLN Assessment (not necessarily a barrier to entry). On campus – International: 18+ years old; Have completed Australian Year 10 qualification (or equivalent); English language requirements – Evidence of English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 with nothing less than 5.5 in any band, or TOEFL iBT (scores from a test taken on or before 25 July 2023 are accepted only) 64, or PTE 50, or CAE 169. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): 3 to 4 years demonstrated experience with a minimum of two work referrals from qualified builders. Apprenticeship: Minimum working age; White Card (General Construction Induction) / CPCWHS1001; Access to tools and equipment as per FERC; Registered apprenticeship; Completion of LLN Assessment (not necessarily a barrier to entry).

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Qualified carpenters can work as residential or commercial carpenters, formwork carpenters, shopfitters, or cabinetmakers. You can also start your own carpentry business, work as a site supervisor, or progress to building and construction management roles. Construction companies & builders – Work on homes, apartments, shopping centres, and major projects across Queensland, Western Australia, and other states. Specialised carpentry – Focus on formwork, shopfitting, or heritage restoration. These roles often pay more. Renovations & maintenance – Work with renovation companies, property maintenance businesses, or councils. Every day brings different challenges. Your own business – Start your own carpentry company doing custom homes, renovations, decks, pergolas, or timber work. Experienced carpenters often progress to leading hand, site supervisor, project manager, building inspector, or trainer roles. With over 160,000 new workers needed by 2034, qualified carpenters enjoy excellent job security and growth opportunities across residential, commercial, and large-scale projects.

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units34 units

CPCCWHS2001

Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry

CPCWHS3001

Identify construction work hazards and select risk control strategies

CPCCOM1012

Work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry

CPCCOM1014

Conduct workplace communication

CPCCOM1015

Carry out measurements and calculations

CPCCOM3001

Perform construction calculations to determine carpentry material requirements

CPCCCA3025

Read and interpret plans, specifications and drawings for carpentry work

CPCCCA2002

Use carpentry tools and equipment

CPCCCA2011

Handle carpentry materials

CPCCCM2008

Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding

CPCCCM2012

Work safely at heights

CPCCCO2013

Carry out concreting to simple forms

CPCCCA3001

Carry out general demolition of minor building structures

CPCCCA3002

Carry out setting out

CPCCCM2006

Apply basic levelling procedures

CPCCOM3006

Carry out levelling operations

CPCCCA3003

Install flooring systems

CPCCCA3004

Construct and erect wall frames

CPCCCA3005

Construct ceiling frames

CPCCCA3006

Erect roof trusses

CPCCCA3007

Construct pitched roofs

CPCCCA3008

Construct eaves

CPCCCA3028

Erect and dismantle formwork for footings and slabs on ground

CPCCCA3010

Install windows and doors

CPCCCA3024

Install lining, panelling and moulding

CPCCCA3016

Construct, assemble and install timber external stairs

CPCCCA3017

Install exterior cladding

CPCCCA3012

Frame and fit wet area fixtures

CPCCCA3014

Construct and install bulkheads

CPCCCM2002

Carry out hand excavation

CPCCCA3027

Set up, operate and maintain indirect action powder-actuated power tools

CPCCOM1013

Plan and organise work

CPCCSF2004

Place and fix reinforcement materials

CPCCCM3001

Operate elevated work platforms up to 11 metres

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220)?

Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220) is Australia's nationally recognised carpentry qualification that trains you to become a licensed carpenter. This comprehensive course covers residential and commercial carpentry, timber framing, formwork, and finishing carpentry skills required for the building industry.

How long does Certificate III in Carpentry take to complete?

The duration varies by study mode: apprenticeships typically take 3-4 years combining work and study, on-campus courses can be completed in 18-24 months full-time, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can be completed in as little as 4-12 weeks for experienced carpenters.

Can international students study Certificate III in Carpentry in Brisbane?

Yes, Everthought College of Construction offers Certificate III in Carpentry for international students on campus in Brisbane. International students study full-time and gain hands-on experience in our training facilities.

What's the difference between carpentry apprenticeship and on-campus study?

Apprenticeships combine paid work with an employer and formal training over 3-4 years. On-campus study is full-time classroom and workshop-based learning completed faster (18-24 months) without employment requirements.

Is Certificate III in Carpentry recognised nationally in Australia?

Yes, Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220) is a nationally recognized qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework. It's recognised across all Australian states and territories and meets licensing requirements for carpenters.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Upcoming Intakes

12 January 2026

12 February 2026

12 March 2026

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