TAFE NSW
2 years 6 months to 3 years
Become a skilled vehicle refinishing technician by learning to paint, repair and maintain vehicle surfaces. This nationally recognised Certificate III combines theory and hands-on practice to prepare you for a rewarding career in automotive refinishing across cars, recreational vehicles, aircraft and marine craft.
You must have evidence of previous experience or study in the automotive trade. For apprenticeship pathways, you must be employed as an apprentice with your ACAP submitting your Training Proposal Plan. For non-apprenticeship pathways, you must be at least 21 years old (with photo ID), have at least 2 years of work experience in the trade (demonstrated through resume and employer letters), and be currently working in the industry or have worked in it within the past 5 years. TAFE NSW may request a Language, Literacy and Numeracy skills test to understand your individual study needs.
The course comprises 30 units of competency: 18 core units and 12 specialty units. Core units cover essential skills including interpreting automotive repair instructions, following safe working practices, environmental sustainability, preparing and painting plastic/composite surfaces, de-nibbing and buffing, masking panels, applying refinishing primers, removing paint, preparing spray equipment, colour matching, operating paint drying equipment, and preparing vehicle substrates. Specialty units include providing work instruction, depowering electric/hybrid vehicles, airbrush techniques, removing and replacing adhesive components, inspecting vehicle paint and damage, applying vehicle body film wrapping, custom painting techniques, battery testing and replacement, and various paint fault rectification methods using different coating systems.
TAFE NSW is a leading registered training organisation (RTO 90003) offering nationally recognised qualifications with 7 study and location options across NSW. The provider offers comprehensive support services including disability support, language and literacy assistance, careers counselling, and access to LinkedIn Learning. TAFE NSW recognises prior learning and work experience, allowing students to complete qualifications faster through credit transfers. The course is designed to meet local community needs and industry standards, with flexible delivery options including on-campus, hybrid, and workplace training.
Upon completion, you'll be qualified to work as a spray painter or vehicle refinishing technician in the automotive industry. The qualification enables you to apply for a Motor Vehicle Tradesperson certificate as a vehicle painter in NSW, which is required to carry out motor vehicle repair work. Career opportunities extend across automotive refinishing businesses, dealerships, fleet maintenance services, and specialist refinishing shops. Your nationally recognised qualification allows you to take work opportunities in other states without needing to upskill further.
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