TAFE NSW
2 years 6 months to 3 years
Become a skilled autobody repair technician through this nationally recognised Certificate III. Learn welding, panel repair, and ADAS technology to restore vehicles to pre-accident condition. Ideal for those with automotive experience seeking formal qualification and career advancement in the repair industry.
Entry requirements vary by pathway. Apprenticeship candidates must be employed in the industry with an Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) submitting a Training Proposal Plan. Non-apprenticeship candidates must be at least 21 years old (with photo ID), have at least 2 years of work experience in automotive body repair (demonstrated via resume and employer letters), and be currently employed in the industry or have worked in it within the past 5 years. Recommended foundation skills include literacy and numeracy at Year 10 level, interest in automotive body repair, good problem-solving abilities, teamwork capability, physical strength for manual tasks, and personal protective equipment including steel-capped boots, safety goggles, hearing protection, and appropriate work clothing.
The course comprises 31 units of competency: 17 core units and 14 specialty units. Core units cover essential competencies including removing and storing vehicle body components, repairing vehicle body misalignment, carrying out advanced gas metal arc welding, following safe working practices, removing and replacing bolt-on panels, repairing body panels using filler, removing and replacing major welded panels, repairing adhesive bonded structural damage, inspecting vehicle damage, applying OEM repair procedures, using and maintaining tools and equipment, testing and replacing batteries, interpreting repair instructions, repairing chassis and frames, following environmental best practices, removing and operating electrical components, carrying out spot welding, and performing routine oxy fuel gas welding. Specialty units include high strength steel and aluminium panel repair, paint-less dent repair, vehicle measuring systems, supplementary restraint systems, composite material fabrication, tungsten inert gas welding, rust prevention, lead wiping, soft soldering, substrate preparation, ADAS technology application, and various other advanced repair techniques.
TAFE NSW is a nationally recognised Registered Training Organisation (RTO 90003) with extensive experience in vocational education and training. The provider offers courses across multiple NSW campuses with flexible delivery options including on-campus, hybrid, and workplace training. TAFE NSW provides comprehensive support services including disability support, language and literacy assistance, careers counselling, and access to learning resources. The organisation recognises prior learning and work experience, allowing students to complete qualifications faster. With industry partnerships and alignment to national competency standards, TAFE NSW ensures graduates meet current workplace demands and are prepared for immediate employment.
Graduates of this Certificate III qualification are prepared for immediate employment as autobody repair technicians in automotive repair workshops, panel beating businesses, and manufacturing facilities. The nationally recognised qualification enables work opportunities across Australia without requiring additional upskilling. Career progression pathways include advancement to production management roles, specialisation in high-value vehicle repair, or establishment of an independent automotive repair business. The qualification also provides a foundation for further study in related automotive fields such as automotive electrical technology, light vehicle mechanical technology, or entrepreneurship and new business management, creating opportunities for career diversification and advancement into supervisory and management positions.
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