TAFE NSW
1-3 years
Become a qualified auto electrician through this nationally recognised Certificate III. Learn to diagnose and repair vehicle electrical systems, engine management systems, and work with the latest automotive technologies in state-of-the-art workshops.
Entry requirements vary by pathway. For apprenticeship: you must be employed as an apprentice and registered with an Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP). For non-apprenticeship: you must be at least 21 years old with at least 2 years of work experience in the trade, currently employed in the automotive industry, and provide evidence through employee records and employer letters. You must also achieve a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test with specific score requirements. It is recommended you have Year 10 high school level LLN, interest in automotive electronics, reasonable fitness including ability to bend and lift 10kg minimum, and your own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The course covers 32 units of competency across core and specialty areas. Core units include: following environmental and safety practices, using electrical test equipment, soldering circuits, applying knowledge of automotive electrical circuits and wiring systems, installing vehicle lighting, repairing wiring harnesses, developing diagnostic test strategies, inspecting and servicing engines, testing and repairing electrical circuits, diagnosing and repairing spark ignition and compression ignition engine management systems, testing and replacing batteries, diagnosing charging/starting/ignition systems, diagnosing electronic body management systems, and installing ancillary electronic systems. Specialty units include options such as fuel system inspection, battery electric vehicle depowering, hydraulic braking system diagnosis, steering and suspension system repair, air conditioning system installation and service, welding techniques, vehicle security systems, and advanced diagnostic procedures.
TAFE NSW is a nationally recognised Registered Training Organisation (RTO 90003) with extensive experience in vocational education. The course is delivered across 16 study and location options throughout NSW, providing flexibility and accessibility. TAFE NSW offers state-of-the-art simulated workshops, industry-professional instruction, and comprehensive support services including disability support, literacy and numeracy assistance, careers counselling, and access to LinkedIn Learning. The qualification is nationally recognised, allowing graduates to work across different states without additional upskilling.
Graduates qualify for roles as Automotive Electricians, who install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and electronic components in motor vehicles. The role offers strong employment growth with approximately 1,700 workers in Australia. Full-time automotive electricians typically work 46 hours per week with median weekly earnings of $1,200. The course provides strong pathways to further study, including related qualifications in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology and Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business. Depending on completed electives, graduates may also be eligible for the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) Refrigerant Handling Licence, opening additional career opportunities in vehicle air conditioning specialisation.
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