Previous Version Version Effective: 1st of March, 2019
Version Effective: 1st of March, 2019

CPC32413 - Certificate III in Plumbing

Course Details

Course Summary

This qualification provides a trade outcome in plumbing.


Entry Requirements

This course is for apprenticeship training only. Students must be employed as apprentices in a relevant industry.


Course Details

Course Type Qualification
Student Availability
  • Domestic
Fees For detailed information on Course Fees, visit www.cqu.edu.au/fees
Application Mode
  • Direct To University
How to Apply Please Enquire
Study Area
  • Engineering and Built Environment
Skill Area
  • Building and Construction
AQF Level Level 3: Certificate III

Admission Codes

Domestic Students
Tertiary Admission Centre Codes (TAC) Codes
Not Applicable
International Students
CRICOS Codes
Not Applicable

Student Outcomes, Career Opportunities and Occupations

Licensed Plumber, Drainer and Gasfitter

Course Structures

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete 55 core units
  2. Complete 9 elective units

Study Mode Definitions

  • Online: Online courses provide the flexibility to study without normally requiring a student to visit a campus. Course content is studied through a number of means including the use of online discussion forums, electronic library resources, by contacting lecturers and teachers, and receiving study materials online/electronically. Work integrated learning, including placements, may be included in some courses.
  • On-campus: Students studying in on-campus mode typically are expected to attend and participate in regular, structured on-campus teaching and learning activities throughout the University’s academic term. These activities may include lectures, tutorials, workshops and practice, online or other activities and normally will be timetabled at a CQUniversity campus or approved delivery site.
  • Mixed Mode: Students studying in mixed mode will participate in a combination of online learning activities in addition to site-specific learning activities, which may include residential schools, co-op placements and/or work-integrated learning as a compulsory requirement of a unit. The additional site-specific learning activities are what differentiates a mixed-mode unit from an online unit.

*All study modes may include Vocational placement and/or work integrated learning.

Select a course structure below to view the delivery details, including the different study modes offered for each structure.

Please select a course structure from the options below:
Course Structure - Mackay

CPC32413 Certificate III Plumbing is delivered in 6 Streams over a 4-year apprenticeship. Each stream of the training in itself is unique and dedicated to providing the apprentice with a level of competence in line with the apprentice’s progress through their apprenticeship and industry expectation. Each stage is of varying duration based on the number of competencies being delivered and assessed. As the training and assessment are competency-based it may be possible for the apprentice to complete their training sooner if they demonstrate the required skill level during the stage being delivered. Approximately 1034 hours, as required by The Plumbing Industry Council approved course list.

  • RPL/RCC/Credit
  • On-campus
Common Stream
Packaging Rules Units of competency from a minimum of four of the following six plumbing streams are required for award of this qualification. Stream 1 - Water and Stream 2 - Sanitary are mandatory. The following units of competency are required for award of this qualification: Stream 1 - Water (mandatory): 24 core units and 5 elective units from the water stream, and; Stream 2 - Sanitary (mandatory): 6 core units and 4 elective units from the sanitary stream. Plus two of the following four streams: Stream 3 - Drainage: 9 core units and 3 elective units from the drainage stream Stream 4 - Mechanical services: 4 core units and 11 elective units from the mechanical services stream Stream 5 - Roofing: 8 core units and 4 elective units from the roofing stream Stream 6 - Gas services: 12 core units and 5 elective units from the gas services stream NB: Units of competency achieved in one stream count as credit for the same unit in the core or elective requirements for any other stream. Some units in this qualification may have prerequisite requirements, which must be met when packaging the qualification. Users are referred to the list of CPC08 units with prerequisite unit requirements available in this Training Package and can be viewed at training.gov.au.
CPCPCM2053A Weld using manual metal arc welding equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2052A Weld using oxy-acetylene equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2049A Cut using oxy-LPG-acetylene equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2046A Use plumbing hand and power tools More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2045A Handle and store plumbing materials More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2043A Carry out WHS requirements More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2041A Work effectively in the plumbing and services sector More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2040A Read plans and calculate plumbing quantities More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2039A Carry out interactive workplace communication More Information Training.gov Details
CPCCOHS2001A Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry More Information Training.gov Details
CPCCCM2008B Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding More Information Training.gov Details
HLTFA211A Provide basic emergency life support More Information Training.gov Details
Drainage Stream


CPCPDR3023A Install on-site disposal systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPSN3025A Install pre-treatment facilities More Information Training.gov Details
RIICCM210A Install trench support More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR2026A Install prefabricated inspection openings and enclosures More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR2025A Drain work site More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR2024A Install stormwater and sub-soil drainage systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR2023A Maintain effluent disinfection systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR2022A Install domestic treatment plants More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR2021A Locate and clear blockages More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2054A Carry out simple concreting and rendering More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2047A Carry out levelling More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR3021A Plan layout of a residential sanitary drainage system More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPDR3022A Install below ground sanitary drainage systems More Information Training.gov Details
Gas Stream
As set by the Plumbing Industry Council approved course list at its meeting on 2 April 2014, the Plumbing Industry Council (PIC) decided that the above list of training competencies, delivered through the Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32413), are the approved competencies under Schedule 1 of the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2003. Study sequence (Training Plan) will be discussed at the time of sign-up where the employer and apprentice will each receive a copy.
CPCPGS3046A Install LPG systems in caravans, mobile homes and mobile workplaces More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3053A Disconnect and reconnect Type A gas appliances More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3054A Calculate and install natural ventilation for Type A gas appliances More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3055A Install gas sub-meters More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3056A Install gas piping systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3059A Install LPG storage of aggregate storage capacity up to 500 litres More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3052A Maintain Type A gas appliances More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3051A Purge consumer piping More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3049A Install Type A gas appliance flues More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3048A Install gas pressure control equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3047A Install LPG systems in marine craft More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3057A Size consumer gas piping systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3060A Install LPG storage of aggregate storage capacity exceeding 500 litres and less than 8KL More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPGS3061A Install and commission Type A gas appliances More Information Training.gov Details
Part Roofing Stream


CPCPRF2022A Select and install roof sheeting and wall cladding More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2048A Cut and join sheet metal More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2050A Mark out materials More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2055A Work safely on roofs More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM3021A Flash penetrations through roofs and walls More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF3026A Install composite roof systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF3023A Fabricate and install external flashings More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF3022A Fabricate and install roof drainage components More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF2023A Collect and store roof water More Information Training.gov Details
Sanitary Stream


CPCPSN3022A Install discharge pipes More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPSN3011B Plan layout of a residential sanitary plumbing system More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM3022A Weld polyethylene and polypropylene pipes using fusion method More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPSN3024A Install and fit off sanitary fixtures More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPSN3023A Fabricate and install sanitary stacks More Information Training.gov Details
Water Stream
Units of competency from a minimum of four of the following six plumbing streams are required for award of this qualification. Stream 1 - Water and Stream 2 - Sanitary are mandatory. The following units of competency are required for award of this qualification: Stream 1 - Water (mandatory): 24 core units and 5 elective units from the water stream, and; Stream 2 - Sanitary (mandatory): 6 core units and 4 elective units from the sanitary stream. Plus two of the following four streams: Stream 3 - Drainage: 9 core units and 3 elective units from the drainage stream Stream 4 - Mechanical services: 4 core units and 11 elective units from the mechanical services stream Stream 5 - Roofing: 8 core units and 4 elective units from the roofing stream Stream 6 - Gas services: 12 core units and 5 elective units from the gas services stream NB: Units of competency achieved in one stream count as credit for the same unit in the core or elective requirements for any other stream. Some units in this qualification may have prerequisite requirements, which must be met when packaging the qualification. Users are referred to the list of CPC08 units with prerequisite unit requirements available in this Training Package and can be viewed at training.gov.au.
CPCPWT3023A Install and commission water heating systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3024A Install and maintain domestic water treatment equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3025A Install water pumpsets More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3026A Fit off and commission heated and cold water services More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3027A Connect irrigation systems from drinking water supply More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM3023A Fabricate and install non-ferrous pressure piping More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPFS3031A Fabricate and install fire hydrant and hose reel systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPFS3038A Test and maintain fire hydrant and hose reel installations More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3020A Connect and install storage tanks to a domestic water supply More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3021A Set out and install water services More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPWT3022A Install and adjust water service controls and devices More Information Training.gov Details

Unit Sequence

Below is the recommended study sequence for this course. Please enrol in your units as per the following order.
Units with the same sequence number should be enrolled into at the same time.
Sequence Unit
1 CPCPCM2053A - Weld using manual metal arc welding equipment
1 CPCPCM2052A - Weld using oxy-acetylene equipment
1 CPCPCM2049A - Cut using oxy-LPG-acetylene equipment
1 CPCPCM2046A - Use plumbing hand and power tools
1 CPCPCM2045A - Handle and store plumbing materials
1 CPCPCM2043A - Carry out WHS requirements
1 CPCPCM2041A - Work effectively in the plumbing and services sector
1 CPCPCM2040A - Read plans and calculate plumbing quantities
1 CPCPCM2039A - Carry out interactive workplace communication
1 CPCCOHS2001A - Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry
1 CPCCCM2008B - Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding
1 HLTFA211A - Provide basic emergency life support
2 CPCPRF2022A - Select and install roof sheeting and wall cladding
2 CPCPCM2048A - Cut and join sheet metal
2 CPCPCM2050A - Mark out materials
2 CPCPCM2055A - Work safely on roofs
2 CPCPCM3021A - Flash penetrations through roofs and walls
2 CPCPRF3026A - Install composite roof systems
2 CPCPRF3023A - Fabricate and install external flashings
2 CPCPRF3022A - Fabricate and install roof drainage components
2 CPCPRF2023A - Collect and store roof water
3 CPCPWT3023A - Install and commission water heating systems
3 CPCPWT3024A - Install and maintain domestic water treatment equipment
3 CPCPWT3025A - Install water pumpsets
3 CPCPWT3026A - Fit off and commission heated and cold water services
3 CPCPWT3027A - Connect irrigation systems from drinking water supply
3 CPCPCM3023A - Fabricate and install non-ferrous pressure piping
3 CPCPFS3031A - Fabricate and install fire hydrant and hose reel systems
3 CPCPFS3038A - Test and maintain fire hydrant and hose reel installations
3 CPCPWT3020A - Connect and install storage tanks to a domestic water supply
3 CPCPWT3021A - Set out and install water services
3 CPCPWT3022A - Install and adjust water service controls and devices
4 CPCPDR3023A - Install on-site disposal systems
4 CPCPSN3025A - Install pre-treatment facilities
4 RIICCM210A - Install trench support
4 CPCPDR2026A - Install prefabricated inspection openings and enclosures
4 CPCPDR2025A - Drain work site
4 CPCPDR2024A - Install stormwater and sub-soil drainage systems
4 CPCPDR2023A - Maintain effluent disinfection systems
4 CPCPDR2022A - Install domestic treatment plants
4 CPCPDR2021A - Locate and clear blockages
4 CPCPCM2054A - Carry out simple concreting and rendering
4 CPCPCM2047A - Carry out levelling
4 CPCPDR3021A - Plan layout of a residential sanitary drainage system
4 CPCPDR3022A - Install below ground sanitary drainage systems
5 CPCPGS3046A - Install LPG systems in caravans, mobile homes and mobile workplaces
5 CPCPGS3053A - Disconnect and reconnect Type A gas appliances
5 CPCPGS3054A - Calculate and install natural ventilation for Type A gas appliances
5 CPCPGS3055A - Install gas sub-meters
5 CPCPGS3056A - Install gas piping systems
5 CPCPGS3059A - Install LPG storage of aggregate storage capacity up to 500 litres
5 CPCPGS3052A - Maintain Type A gas appliances
5 CPCPGS3051A - Purge consumer piping
5 CPCPGS3049A - Install Type A gas appliance flues
5 CPCPGS3048A - Install gas pressure control equipment
5 CPCPGS3047A - Install LPG systems in marine craft
5 CPCPGS3057A - Size consumer gas piping systems
5 CPCPGS3060A - Install LPG storage of aggregate storage capacity exceeding 500 litres and less than 8KL
5 CPCPGS3061A - Install and commission Type A gas appliances
6 CPCPSN3022A - Install discharge pipes
6 CPCPSN3011B - Plan layout of a residential sanitary plumbing system
6 CPCPCM3022A - Weld polyethylene and polypropylene pipes using fusion method
6 CPCPSN3024A - Install and fit off sanitary fixtures
6 CPCPSN3023A - Fabricate and install sanitary stacks


Course Structure - Rockhampton

The duration of the delivery of the qualification may vary from the volume of learning specified for the qualification. The time allocated for the delivery provides apprentices with enough opportunity to achieve the learning outcomes for the qualification type, AQF level and discipline.

The delivery method is face to face block delivery, as well as supervised on the job requirements.

There are 2 streams to complete in Rockhampton. Stream 1 and 2.

Stream 1 – Common Stream: 96 hours of delivery with both theory and practical activities.

Stream 2 – Part Roofing: 114 hours of delivery with both theory and practical activities.

The program has been organised to be delivered face to face. The streams are organised to reflect the learning and work activities that take place within the plumbing sector. The application of this knowledge is assessed in components of the program that focus on specific work activities. Students will be assessed on both theoretical and practical elements in workshops, practical work simulation on campus as well as on the job verification.

  • RPL/RCC/Credit
  • On-campus
Common Stream
Packaging Rules Units of competency from a minimum of four of the following six plumbing streams are required for award of this qualification. Stream 1 - Water and Stream 2 - Sanitary are mandatory. The following units of competency are required for award of this qualification: Stream 1 - Water (mandatory): 24 core units and 5 elective units from the water stream, and; Stream 2 - Sanitary (mandatory): 6 core units and 4 elective units from the sanitary stream. Plus two of the following four streams: Stream 3 - Drainage: 9 core units and 3 elective units from the drainage stream Stream 4 - Mechanical services: 4 core units and 11 elective units from the mechanical services stream Stream 5 - Roofing: 8 core units and 4 elective units from the roofing stream Stream 6 - Gas services: 12 core units and 5 elective units from the gas services stream NB: Units of competency achieved in one stream count as credit for the same unit in the core or elective requirements for any other stream. Some units in this qualification may have prerequisite requirements, which must be met when packaging the qualification. Users are referred to the list of CPC08 units with prerequisite unit requirements available in this Training Package and can be viewed at training.gov.au.
HLTFA211A Provide basic emergency life support More Information Training.gov Details
CPCCCM2008B Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding More Information Training.gov Details
CPCCOHS2001A Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2039A Carry out interactive workplace communication More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2040A Read plans and calculate plumbing quantities More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2041A Work effectively in the plumbing and services sector More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2043A Carry out WHS requirements More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2045A Handle and store plumbing materials More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2046A Use plumbing hand and power tools More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2049A Cut using oxy-LPG-acetylene equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2052A Weld using oxy-acetylene equipment More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2053A Weld using manual metal arc welding equipment More Information Training.gov Details
Part Roofing Stream


CPCPCM2048A Cut and join sheet metal More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2050A Mark out materials More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM2055A Work safely on roofs More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF3026A Install composite roof systems More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF3023A Fabricate and install external flashings More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF3022A Fabricate and install roof drainage components More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF2022A Select and install roof sheeting and wall cladding More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPRF2023A Collect and store roof water More Information Training.gov Details
CPCPCM3021A Flash penetrations through roofs and walls More Information Training.gov Details

Unit Sequence

Below is the recommended study sequence for this course. Please enrol in your units as per the following order.
Units with the same sequence number should be enrolled into at the same time.
Sequence Unit
1 HLTFA211A - Provide basic emergency life support
1 CPCCCM2008B - Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding
1 CPCCOHS2001A - Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry
1 CPCPCM2039A - Carry out interactive workplace communication
1 CPCPCM2040A - Read plans and calculate plumbing quantities
1 CPCPCM2041A - Work effectively in the plumbing and services sector
1 CPCPCM2043A - Carry out WHS requirements
1 CPCPCM2045A - Handle and store plumbing materials
1 CPCPCM2046A - Use plumbing hand and power tools
1 CPCPCM2049A - Cut using oxy-LPG-acetylene equipment
1 CPCPCM2052A - Weld using oxy-acetylene equipment
1 CPCPCM2053A - Weld using manual metal arc welding equipment
2 CPCPCM2048A - Cut and join sheet metal
2 CPCPCM2050A - Mark out materials
2 CPCPCM2055A - Work safely on roofs
2 CPCPRF3026A - Install composite roof systems
2 CPCPRF3023A - Fabricate and install external flashings
2 CPCPRF3022A - Fabricate and install roof drainage components
2 CPCPRF2022A - Select and install roof sheeting and wall cladding
2 CPCPRF2023A - Collect and store roof water
2 CPCPCM3021A - Flash penetrations through roofs and walls


Course Assessment Information

RPL - Students who have previous informal and formal learning need to advise their trainer/assessor prior to enrolment. If the student wishes to apply for an RPL they need to apply to the RPL Centre.
Credit transfer - If credit for relevant formal qualifications is sought, then the process will be actioned after the student has enrolled in at least one unit of competency as directed by the relevant trainer/assessor. The Trainer/Assessor will work with the student on their credit transfer application, and provide advice and support as necessary.
Assessment Types
Written/Electronic Assessment
Practical Task
Project
RPL
Course Learning Outcomes
Where and when can I start?
Please view the more details information for any additional information related to this course.

Domestic 2020 Availabilities

Course Structure - Mackay

On-campus

Mackay

October: Full Time/Part Time

Course Structure - Rockhampton

On-campus

Rockhampton City

November: Full Time/Part Time
For individual class days and times for each intake please check the TAFE Timetable located here
The availabilities shown above are for the current and future years. To view any historic availabilities please press "Show Historic Availabilities" below:

Show Historic Availabilities
More Details

More Details

Contact Us
To apply, or to find out more about this course, contact the Student Advice Team on 13 27 86.


Course Requirements
Basic literacy and mathematic ability must be developed for successful course completion.


Resource and Textbook Requirements
These details will be advised at the start of each block.


Is what I already know taken into account?
Yes. Your history of study, skills and experience does matter. Consideration is given to your prior life and work experiences as well as formal and informal training. This may be applied using the national standard for Mutual Recognition or through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Documentary evidence will be requested. 


What else might I find useful?
Financial assistance with fees may be available through concessions or via ‘Time to Pay’ payment plan. This and other information such as student support, study and library assistance can be found at www.cqu.edu.au/current-student