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AUR31120 | CRICOS: 103604D

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

This course will qualify you to become a heavy vehicle mechanical technician working on trucks, buses, earthmoving equipment or agricultural machinery.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast Darling Downs and South West Wide Bay Burnett Far North Queensland North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY Apprenticeships and traineeships International
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 08 Jul 2024 Duration: 2 years View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
International
$22,400

Course overview

This qualification is essential to become a heavy commercial vehicle technician. Successful completion of this course will allow you to become a qualified tradesperson servicing and repairing trucks, buses, earth-moving equipment, or tractors and other farming machinery.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, demand for qualified mechanics (including diesel mechanics) grew strongly over the past five years with employers finding it hard to fill vacancies. Job openings are expected to remain steady in the near future with around 23,000 job opening expected over the next five years. 

In this course you will apply your practical skills and gain underpinning knowledge of how to diagnose problems, repair and service a range of systems and components of heavy vehicles and equipment. You'll repair and service engines, transmissions, cooling, steering and suspension systems, electrical circuits and systems, hydraulic and air braking systems, and diesel fuel injection systems. You will also apply your skills and knowledge to complete heavy vehicle safety and roadworthy inspections.

Successful completion of this qualification will allow you to apply to become a qualified heavy vehicle tradesperson and continue your career in the industry.

What can I do?

  • Diesel Motor Mechanic
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technician
  • Heavy Vehicle Mechanic

Course outcome:

AUR31120 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Free apprenticeships for under 25s

The Queensland government is supporting young Queenslanders up to the age of 25 by providing access to fully subsidised training across a range of priority apprenticeship or traineeship qualifications. Learn more>

Trade skills assessment and gap training program

If you can demonstrate substantial competency in this qualification, you may be able to access funding for recognition of prior learning and gap training through the Trade Skills and Assessment Gap Training (TSAGT) program. TAFE Queensland is a proud recipient of funding from the Queensland Government, Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) for this program. Only eligible participants may receive funding for eligible courses. Learn more about eligibility criteria.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 14 elective units from the list below.

International Students Only
You will also be required to undertake 400 hours of vocational placement in an approved setting. 

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURAEA002
    Follow environmental and sustainability best practice in an automotive workplace
    UNIT CODE :
    AURAEA002
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes required to follow environmental and sustainability best practices, including complying with established workplace procedures and environmental regulations as well as following sustainability practices that may reduce the environmental impact of work practices and outputs. It applies to those working in the automotive industry. No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Follow environmental and sustainability best practice in an automotive workplace

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURASA102
    Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace
    UNIT CODE :
    AURASA102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and follow safety and emergency procedures in an automotive workplace.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR112
    Test and repair basic electrical circuits
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR112
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect, test and repair basic electrical circuits in vehicle and machinery electrical systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Test and repair basic electrical circuits

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR122
    Diagnose and repair vehicle dynamic control systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR122
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair vehicle dynamic control systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair vehicle dynamic control systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR124
    Diagnose and repair compression ignition engine management systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR124
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the compression ignition engine management systems of vehicles, vessels or machinery.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair compression ignition engine management systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR125
    Test, charge and replace batteries and jump-start vehicles
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR125
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to test, charge, replace, retest and secure a range of automotive batteries, including vehicle or machinery jump-starting procedures.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Test, charge and replace batteries and jump-start vehicles

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR129
    Diagnose and repair charging systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR129
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair charging systems. The systems used vary based on the work context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair charging systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR130
    Diagnose and repair starting systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR130
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair starting systems. The systems used vary based on the work context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair starting systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURHTB101
    Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle air braking systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURHTB101
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the air braking systems of heavy vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle air braking systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURHTD102
    Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle steering systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURHTD102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair heavy vehicle steering systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle steering systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURHTD103
    Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle suspension systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURHTD103
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair heavy vehicle suspension systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle suspension systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURHTE102
    Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle compression ignition engines
    UNIT CODE :
    AURHTE102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the compression ignition engines of heavy vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle compression ignition engines

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURHTQ103
    Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle drive shafts
    UNIT CODE :
    AURHTQ103
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the drive shafts of heavy vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle drive shafts

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURHTZ101
    Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle emission control systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURHTZ101
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the emission control systems of heavy vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle emission control systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTA006
    Inspect and service hydraulic systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTA006
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes required to inspect and service hydraulic systems. It involves preparing for the task, inspecting the system, reporting the inspection findings, servicing and adjusting the system, and completing workplace processes and documentation. It applies to those working in the automotive service and repair industry. The hydraulic systems include those of agricultural machinery, heavy commercial vehicles, marine vessels, mobile plant machinery or outdoor power equipment. This unit is not intended for drive systems, power steering or hydraulic braking systems. No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Inspect and service hydraulic systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTA104
    Carry out servicing operations
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTA104
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out servicing operations.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Carry out servicing operations

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTA118
    Develop and carry out diagnostic test strategies
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTA118
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and carry out a diagnostic testing strategy on vehicles, vessels or machinery.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Develop and carry out diagnostic test strategies

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTC103
    Diagnose and repair cooling systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTC103
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the cooling systems of vehicles. The systems used vary based on the work context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair cooling systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTF102
    Inspect and service diesel fuel injection systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTF102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect and service diesel fuel injection systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Inspect and service diesel fuel injection systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTF105
    Diagnose and repair engine forced-induction systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTF105
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in engine forced-induction systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair engine forced-induction systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTK102
    Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTK102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select, use, maintain and store tools and equipment in an automotive workplace.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTQ001
    Inspect and service final drive assemblies
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTQ001
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes required to inspect and service final drive assemblies. It involves preparing for the task, inspecting the assembly, reporting the inspection findings, servicing and adjusting the assembly, and completing workplace processes and documentation. It applies to those working in the automotive service and repair industry. The final drive assemblies include those of agricultural machinery, heavy commercial vehicles, light vehicles, mobile plant machinery or outdoor power equipment. No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Inspect and service final drive assemblies

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Acacia Ridge
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Ipswich
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Ashmore
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Roma
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Warwick
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Toowoomba
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Dalby
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Kingaroy
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Bundaberg
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Cairns
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Townsville - Trade Training Centre Bohle
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Acacia Ridge
On Campus
08 Jul 2024
2 years
Full time
  • International: $22,400
demo

Acacia Ridge

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

08 Jul 2024

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

2 years

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,400
Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

    The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

Acacia Ridge
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
2 years
Full time
  • International: $22,400
demo

Acacia Ridge

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

2 years

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,400
Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

    The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Ashmore
On Campus
08 Jul 2024
2 years
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $22,400
demo

Ashmore

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

08 Jul 2024

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

2 years

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,400
Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

    The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

Ashmore
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
2 years
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $22,400
demo

Ashmore

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

2 years

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,400
Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

    The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

Download Brochure

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120)
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more
International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays. .
Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

Domestic students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to domestic students:

To study an apprenticeship or traineeship program you must be indentured as an apprentice or trainee with your employer.

Employers need to be able to provide the necessary human and physical resources to qualify for an apprentice.


International students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to International students:

  • English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
  • Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Resources required

You are responsible for meeting the minimum occupational health and safety requirements in practical classes.
This includes the use of:

  • clear safety glasses to AS 1336 or 1337
  • protective footwear with safety toe cap and non-slip soles to AS2210
  • mechanic gloves
  • ear plugs or muffs
  • You should also wear 100% cotton drill industry-standard protective clothing

If you fail to meet these minimum standards of dress, you will not be permitted entry into practical classes.

You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks after enrolment, during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.

You are also required to have access to and bring personal stationary, a USB, and a calculator.

Placement

International Students
You will be required to undertake 400 hours of vocational placement in an approved setting. TAFE Queensland will assist with arranging suitable placements if you are not already working in the industry and will provide you with all the information you need at the beginning of your studies to complete this component of your course. 

Please note: completing vocational placement is compulsory, and you will be expected to manage family and work commitments in order to complete your shifts. You are responsible for ensuring you have met all the requirements to participate in vocational placement, and are required to make your own transport arrangements to and from your vocational placement approved setting.

Important information

International important information

You may be required to hold a valid driver's licence to study this course.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more