Certificate III In Plumbing
CPC32420 Mechanical Plumber - Apprenticeship - Mechanical Plumber - ApprenticeshipCreate a sustainable career as a registered mechanical plumber
Plumbing is a high-demand trade that delivers essential services across residential, commercial and industrial sites. As a plumber, you can enjoy strong job security and explore a range of specialised career paths within the industry. 5,000 new plumbers are expected to join the workforce by 2028, according to the Victorian Skills Authority.
A plumbing apprenticeship gives you industry‑specific, applied training and the opportunity to earn while you learn.
As a Mechanical plumber you will specialise in HVAC systems, split system installation, ducted heating, hydronic heating, and gas fitting.
After completing the Certificate III in Plumbing apprenticeship, the next step toward becoming a licensed plumber is the Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services. Upon successful completion, you will sit the Building and Plumbing Commission licensing exam hosted at our campus. As a licensed plumber, you can then start your own business.
As a plumbing apprentice, you’ll work full-time with your employer. You’ll also complete training in our state-of-the-art plumbing trade workshops for 5 days per block, across state-of-the-art plumbing trade workshops.
- Course code
- CPC32420
- Delivery location
- Berwick, Cranbourne, Dandenong, Frankston
- International
- Not available for International students
- Length
- Part Time, 4 years.
- Start dates
- Ongoing
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Timetable
• Days per week: 5
• Hours per day: 7.6
• Expected hours of self-directed learning per week: 16
All learning is conducted in person on campus. -
Study units
Unit code Unit Description CPCPCM2043 Carry out WHS requirements CPCPCM2040 Read plans, calculate quantities and mark out materials CPCPCM2041 Work effectively in the plumbing services sector CPCPCM2045 Handle and store plumbing materials CPCPCM2046 Use plumbing hand and power tools CPCPCM2047 Carry out levelling CPCPCM3023 Fabricate and install non-ferrous pressure piping HLTAID011 Provide First Aid CPCPCM2039 Carry out interactive workplace communication CPCPCM3021 Flash penetrations through roofs and walls CPCCCM2012 Work safely at heights CPCPWT3021 Set out and install water services CPCPSN3022 Install discharge pipes CPCPGS3049 Install gas appliance flues CPCPCM2048 Cut and join sheet metal CPCPCM3025 Install trench support CPCPDR2026 Install prefabricated inspection openings and inspection chambers CPCPDR2021 Locate and clear blockages CPCPCM3024 Prepare simple drawings CPCPGS3056 Size and install consumer gas piping systems CPCPCM2049 Cut using oxy-acetylene equipment CPCPCM2055 Work safely on roofs CPCPGS3048 Install gas pressure control equipment CPCPCM3022 Weld polymer pipes using fusion method CPCPWT3027 Install backflow prevention devices CPCPDR2025 Install stormwater and sub-soil drainage systems and drain work site CPCPRF3022 Fabricate and install roof drainage systems CPCPFS3031 Fabricate and install fire hydrant and hose reel systems CPCPGS3061 Install and commission Type A gas appliances CPCPIG3022 Install and commission domestic irrigation pumps CPCPRF2022 Select and install roof sheeting and wall cladding CPCPDR3021 Plan layout and install below ground sanitary drainage systems CPCPRF3023 Fabricate and install external flashings CPCPRF3026 Install roof sheets, wall cladding and complex flashings CPCPRF2023 Collect and store roof water CPCPGS3060 Install LPG storage of aggregate storage capacity exceeding 500 litres and less than 8 kl CPCPWT3029 Install water pipe systems CPCPWT3028 Install property service CPCPGS3054 Calculate and install natural ventilation for Type A gas appliances CPCPGS3046 Install LPG systems in caravans, mobile homes and mobile workplaces CPCPRF3024 Install roof components CPCPGS3047 Install LPG systems in marine craft CPCPWT3020 Connect and install storage tanks to a domestic water supply CPCPRF3021 Receive roofing materials CPCPWT3022 Install and commission water heating systems and adjust controls and devices CPCPWT3025 Install water pumpsets CPCPGS3059 Install LPG storage of aggregate storage capacity up to 500 litres CPCPDR3023 Install on-site domestic wastewater treatment plants and disposal systems CPCPSN3026 Install sewerage pumpsets CPCPIG2021 Design domestic urban irrigation systems CPCPCM2054 Carry out simple concreting and rendering CPCPFS3037 Install residential life safety sprinkler systems CPCCWHS2001 Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry CPCPGS3053 Disconnect and reconnect Type A gas appliances CPCPGS3052 Maintain Type A gas appliances CPCPSN3025 Install pre-treatment facilities CPCPSN3011 Plan the layout of a residential sanitary plumbing system and fabricate and install sanitary stacks CPCPCM2052 Weld mild steel using oxy-acetylene equipment CPCPWT3024 Install and maintain domestic water treatment equipment CPCPWT3026 Install and fit off sanitary fixtures, water services and adjust water service controls CPCPRF3025 Install roof coverings to curved roof structures CPCCCM3001 Operate elevated work platforms up to 11 metres CPCPIG3021 Set out, install and commission irrigation systems CPCPFS3038 Test and maintain fire hydrant and hose reel installations CPCPGS3051 Purge consumer piping CPCCWC2001 Complete penetrations and flashings CPCPCM2053 Weld using metal arc welding equipment CPCPMS2021 Assemble mechanical services components CPCPMS3031 Fabricate and install steel pressure piping CPCPMS3038 Install air conditioning control equipment CPCPMS3036 Install air handling units CPCPMS3040 Install and commission evaporative air cooling systems CPCPMS3035 Install and test ducting systems CPCPMS3034 Install and test medical gas pipeline systems CPCPMS3041 Install domestic solid fuel burning appliances CPCPMS3033 Install small bore heating systems CPCPMS3039 Maintain mechanical services equipment CPCPMS3032 Select and fit insulation and sheathing UEECD0007 Apply work health and safety regulations, codes and practices in the workplace UEERA0049 Install and start up single head split air conditioning and water heating heat pump systems UEERA0059 Prepare and connect refrigerant tubing and fittings UEERA0064 Recover, pressure test, evacuate, charge and leak test refrigerants - split systems -
Assessment methods
• Observation
• Questioning or Test/Quiz
• Project -
Admission requirements
• Must be currently employed and have a Registered Training Agreement with their employer.
Inherent requirements
• Of school leaving age or have a transition from school form.
• Have parental agreement for students under 18 years of age.Our inherent requirements are a guide to help you decide if a course is right for you.
If you are a student with a disability, long-term illness, mental health condition or are a primary carer of an individual with a disability, you can apply for support through our Equitable Learning and Disability Support team.
Physical:
Language, literacy and numeracy
To undertake a Certificate III in Plumbing, physical attributes required include good hand-eye coordination, physical strength, and stamina to
handle manual labour, including lifting heavy materials and working in various positions such as kneeling, crouching, or standing for extended periods.
Additionally, fine motor skills and dexterity are important for handling tools and materials with precision. Plumbers also need to be comfortable
working in diverse environments, such as indoors, outdoors, and in cramped spaces, often in varying weather conditions.
Cognitive/Emotional:
To undertake a Certificate III in Plumbing, cognitive and emotional attributes are crucial alongside physical skills. Effective
communication skills are necessary for interacting with customers, clients, and team members, requiring clear explanation of technical issues and
solutions. Problem-solving abilities and attention to detail are essential for diagnosing and fixing plumbing issues. Plumbers must also manage stress
and remain calm in challenging situations, such as handling emergencies, dealing with difficult clients, or working under tight deadlines. Awareness of
infection control practices is vital to ensure safety and hygiene, particularly when dealing with waste systems and potentially hazardous materials.
Emotional resilience and a positive attitude are important for maintaining professionalism and efficiency in a demanding work environment.
Experience:
A plumbing pre apprenticeship or Certificate 2 is an advantage and may help with finding a position initially but it is not a requirement to
have this prior to commencing the Certificate 3.
Industry:
The plumbing industry demands a high level of technical expertise and compliance with legal requirements. The industry is constantly evolving with advancements in technology, materials, and sustainable
practices, offering numerous career opportunities and pathways for continuous professional development. Plumbers often work closely
with other construction professionals, requiring strong collaboration and communication skills to effectively integrate their work within broader
building projects.You are required to complete a language, literacy and numeracy skills test before course commencement. This will determine course suitability and if you may need additional support.
We use an approved online skills review tool to determine your language, literacy and numeracy skills within the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF).
Below are the levels required for this course:• Language and literacy: 2
• Numeracy: 2
Students may be taken at one level below with LNSUPPORT. -
Practical placement
There are no practical placement requirements for this course.
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Simulated work environment
The simulated workshop for plumbing apprentices is a comprehensive training environment designed to mimic real-world plumbing scenarios, providing hands-on experience in a controlled setting. The workshop is equipped with various plumbing fixtures, tools, and materials commonly used in the industry, such as pipes, fittings, water heaters, drainage systems, and gas lines. Apprentices practice installing, repairing, and maintaining these systems, adhering to industry standards and safety protocols.The workshop includes mock-ups of residential and commercial plumbing systems,
allowing apprentices to work on tasks like gas/water pipe installation, welding, roofing, drainage and soldering, as well as troubleshooting and repairing leaks, blockages, and system malfunctions. Instructors demonstrate techniques and provide guidance, ensuring apprentices develop the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. Advanced simulation areas may include digital tools and software for designing
plumbing systems. Safety equipment and protocols are emphasized, with apprentices learning to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow
safe work practices. Overall, the simulated workshop provides a realistic, immersive learning experience, preparing apprentices for the challenges of
the plumbing industry and ensuring they are competent and confident in their skills before working on actual projects.
In the simulated workshop or classrooms for plumbing apprentices, the dress code is designed to ensure safety, professionalism, and respect for all participants. Apprentices are required to wear long pants and sturdy work boots to protect against potential hazards such as sharp tools, hot materials, and heavy equipment. Additionally, clothing must not contain offensive images or words that could be deemed inappropriate or disrespectful to
others. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and hard hats, must be worn as necessary to comply with safety regulations. This dress code fosters a safe and respectful learning environment, promoting professionalism and adherence to industry standards. -
Course and career pathways
Nationally recognised training Certificate III In Plumbing Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services Possible job outcome - plumber and drainer
- plumber
- roof plumber
- Licensed Plumber
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Fees
Fees Tuition fees* (GST exempt)
Fee Type Fee Amount Select Concession $2,021 Government subsidised $10,105 Full fee paying $35,571 Mandatory other fees** (GST inclusive)
Materials $4,605 And one of:
Student services – concession (annual) OR$135 Student services - no concession (annual) $270 *Student tuition fees are correct at time of publishing and are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Please note: Fees will be subject to change if the course runs over two or more calendar years. Check here to see if you are eligible for government-subsidised training. Training to eligible students is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth funding. Students with a disability are encouraged to apply for this course using Skills First funding.
**You are required to pay additional fees for materials and support services, not covered by your tuition fees. This may include things like learning resources, personal protective equipment/clothing, and vary depending on the course you study. Material fees are also subject to change given individual circumstances. Please note: You will also be required to pay the Student Services fee for each year of enrolment. -
Help with fees
Payment plans
At Chisholm, you can spread your tuition costs over the year by making part payments via direct debit on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Payment plans are available for local students enrolling in certificate level courses only. Read more about payment plans.
Scholarships
Annual scholarships may be available to eligible students suffering financial hardship through the Caroline Chisholm Education Foundation. Find out more about the scholarships, which to date have supported more than 150 students with grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on circumstance and the area of study.
Government-subsidised training
Check here to see if you are eligible for government-subsidised training. Training to eligible students is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth funding. Students with a disability are encouraged to apply for this course using Skills First funding.
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Skills recognition
Your current skills, knowledge and experience can help you get a qualification.
Find out about skills recognition and RPL for certificate to advanced diploma courses.
Please note: Students may be required to undertake an assessment of their literacy and numeracy as part of their application process.
Chisholm is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and provides Nationally Recognised Training (NRT). This means you can be assured that our training will provide you with a qualification that is recognised and respected across Australia.
Chisholm courses are subject to minimum and maximum group numbers. Courses may be cancelled or postponed if minimum numbers are not achieved by the start date of the course. Courses may close prior to the start date if the maximum numbers are reached. In that situation, eligible applicants will be offered a place in the next available intake.