Painters and decorators:

• Assess various worksites, repair surfaces and prepare materials
• Apply products such as paint and wallpaper to surfaces with great care and attention to detail
• Use tools and appliances safely
• Identify hazardous materials
• Select and prepare paints to match colours by the addition of tinters
• Use business skills to calculate the quantity of materials and labour required, and to apply cost estimates for projects

The number of years expected to complete this apprenticeship is between three and four years.

Painters and decorators are usually employed by painting and decorating contracting firms or are self-employed contractors. Some work for government agencies conducting painting associated with public works, housing and railways. Advancement to supervisory positions, technical training or sales work is possible.

Opportunities for painters depend mainly on the level of building and renovation activity.

Painters and decorators may concentrate on a specific area of work, such as the internal or external painting of domestic homes, commercial buildings or industrial structures and equipment.

Related jobs: paperhanger

The current Certificate III qualification for Painting and Decorating requires students to successfully complete 27 units of competency to achieve the credential. Of these 27 units, 23 are compulsory and a further four  elective units.

Full list of units:

CPCCCM1002A Work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry

CPCCCM1003A Plan and organise work

CPCCCM1004A Conduct workplace communication

CPCCCM1005A Carry out measurements and calculations

CPCCCM1006A Work safely at heights

CPCCCM2001A Read and interpret plans and specifications

CPCCCM2003A Calculate and cost construction work

CPCCCM2008A Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding

CPCCCM3001A Operate elevated work platforms

CPCCOHS2001A Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry

CPCCPB3026A Erect and maintain trestle and plank systems

CPCCPD2001A Handle painting and decorating materials

CPCCPD2002A Use painting and decorating tools and equipment

CPCCPD2003A Remove and replace doors and door and window components

CPCCPD3001A Prepare surfaces for painting

CPCCPD3002A Apply paint by brush and roller

CPCCPD3003A Apply texture coat paint finishes by brush, roller and spray

CPCCPD3004A Apply paint by spray

CPCCPD3005A Match specified paint colour

CPCCPD3006A Apply stains and clear timber finishes

CPCCPD3007A Apply wallpaper

CPCCPD3008A Apply decorative paint finishes

CPCCPD3011A Apply lead paint and asbestos management

Full list of elective units:

CPCCPD3009A Remove graffiti and apply protective coatings

CPCCPD3010A Apply protective paint coating systems

CPCCPD3013A Apply intumescent coatings

CPCCSP3003A Apply trowelled texture coat finishes

Fees for these units vary. Students are also expected to cover the cost of clothing, equipment, safety glasses, tools and other materials.

This trade is linked to the Queensland skills shortage, and additional funding benefits may apply for employers.

Apprentices must be employed and have a signed Registered Training Contract to undertake apprenticeship training. BIGA will help you with the paperwork.

Do you have six or more years experience in this trade? Click here for information on RPL.