Why Carpentry Apprenticeships
CORE carpentry apprentices are employed by us and placed with reputable industry partners across metropolitan and regional Victoria. While working on site, apprentices complete a Certificate III in Carpentry through an approved Registered Training Organisation. The combination of paid work and formal training builds the practical capability and the recognised qualification needed for a long-term career in the trade.
Carpentry is a foundation trade. It underpins almost every construction project, from residential homes to large commercial builds and infrastructure. Skilled carpenters are in demand across Victoria, and the trade leads naturally into supervision, leading hand, foreman and project management roles as the career develops.
Career Pathways
Once qualified, carpenters can work across a broad range of projects and specialisations. Many go on to become site leaders, project managers, or run their own building businesses. CORE supports apprentices to think long-term from day one. The apprenticeship is the foundation, not the finish line.
- Residential framing and structural carpentry
- Commercial construction, fit-out and finishing
- Formwork and concreting support trades
- Joinery and cabinet making
- Heritage and restoration carpentry
- Site supervision, leading hand and foreman roles
- Builder registration and project management
- Self-employment as a registered building practitioner running your own crew
Courses & Training
Carpentry apprentices combine on-the-job experience with formal study, building the practical skills and the technical understanding needed to qualify and grow into the trade.
The nationally recognised qualification for employed carpentry apprentices. The qualification builds skills across framing, formwork, fit-out, finishing and structural carpentry on residential and commercial sites.
Delivered through an approved Registered Training Organisation, scheduled alongside paid employment. Most carpentry apprentices attend training one day per week or in blocks, depending on the RTO and the host site. CORE coordinates the training contract end-to-end.
The Construction Induction (White Card) is required. First Aid and CPR are strongly recommended. PPE is supplied by CORE and includes safety boots, hi-vis clothing, gloves, safety glasses and hearing protection. Working at heights, EWP and other site-specific tickets may be required depending on the host site.
Job Opportunities for Qualified Carpenters
CORE places carpentry apprentices across Melbourne metropolitan and regional Victoria. The host network includes residential builders, commercial contractors and large-scale construction operators, providing broad exposure across the four years rather than time on a single site.
Every industry partner is screened by CORE before placement. They commit to providing meaningful trade work, qualified supervision and a safe site. CORE Field Officers visit regularly to check progress, and step in if anything needs adjusting.
Victoria-wide. Applications are accepted year-round across metropolitan and regional Victoria. Submit your details and a CORE team member will be in touch about current and upcoming placements.
Take the first step toward a long-term trade career with structured training, real industry experience, and ongoing support from CORE
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Do I need previous carpentry experience to apply?
No. Apprenticeships are entry-level by design. The right attitude, an interest in working with your hands and a willingness to learn matter most. Pre-apprenticeship training or hands-on project experience is a bonus, not a requirement.
Who employs me, CORE or the industry partner?
CORE. We are the legal employer for the full duration of the apprenticeship. CORE pays wages, manages superannuation and looks after all employment obligations. The industry partner provides the day-to-day supervision and on-the-job training.
What qualification do I get and how long does it take?
The qualification is the Certificate III in Carpentry, a nationally recognised qualification. The apprenticeship typically runs over three to four years, subject to satisfactory progress and competency. Residential apprenticeships often complete within three years, while commercial carpentry pathways may take four.
What are the working hours?
Full-time employment is typically 38 hours per week, generally Monday to Friday with early starts on most sites. Overtime or weekend work may be required on some projects. Off-the-job training is scheduled alongside paid work, usually one day per week or in blocks, depending on the RTO and the host site.
Who can apply?
Strong applicants are 18 years or older, have completed Year 12 or equivalent with solid literacy and numeracy, are physically fit, comfortable with hands-on work in varied weather conditions, hold or are working toward a driver’s licence with reliable transport, and are an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
What does it cost me?
Tuition fees are set by the RTO delivering the qualification, and government subsidies or concessions may apply for eligible apprentices. Budget for mandatory tickets and licences (approximately $50 to $200 each), tools and PPE, and any medical or induction costs not covered by the host site.
What happens if my host placement changes?
Your job and your training contract remain with CORE. If a placement ends or is not the right fit, we work with you to find another suitable host site. Progress toward the qualification is not affected.
Will I work on residential, commercial or both?
It depends on the host site. CORE works with both residential and commercial construction businesses, and aims to match apprentices with hosts that align with their interests and the area they want to build a career in. Carpentry skills transfer across both sectors, and apprentices often gain broad exposure during their training.
