How to Become a Painter and Decorator


Painters and decorators are responsible for adding some of the most essential details to homes, commercial premises and industrial sites. From painting walls to varnishing floorboards, they take care of the all-important finishing touches. If you want a job that involves a combination of practical skills and creativity, painting and decorating could be the perfect career for you.

Not sure how to become a painter and decorator in Australia? you’ll need more than just a steady hand and an eye for detail. Learn the necessary skills and qualifications to land your dream job.


What does a painter and decorator do?

The primary responsibility of a painter and decorator is to embellish a building in accordance with the client’s instructions. This typically involves working with a wide range of materials, such as paint, timber, metal, and plaster. From the floor and walls to the ceiling and benchtops, painters and decorators can add unique touches to practically any surface. They work collaboratively with clients to create a finished product that meets the requirements of the brief.

Some painters and decorators specialise in certain areas, which can determine the type of work they do. Many work exclusively in residential properties, whereas others specialise in decorating industrial buildings. No matter what kind of painting and decorating you’re interested in, Major Training’s painter qualifications can help you learn the right skills for a successful career.

If you’re thinking about starting your own business, checkout our comprehensive article on How to Start a Painting Business.


Essential Qualities

Attention to Detail

There’s more to being a painter and decorator than slapping some paint on a wall and calling it a day. This profession calls for meticulous attention to detail to produce a high-quality finished product. Mistakes like using the wrong shade of paint or an incorrect fixture could delay the whole project, which is why attention to detail is so important.

Communication Skills

Collaborating with clients is an integral part of working as a painter and decorator. Prior to making any adjustments to the property, you’ll need to ensure you’re on the same page so that any work performed meets the client’s exact requirements.

Practical Skills

Practical skills are the foundation of the painting and decorating profession. Just about anyone can paint a wall, but creating a finished product that meets professional standards takes years of practice. Having the patience and work ethic to learn a range of practical skills and apply them in the workplace is therefore essential for every painter and decorator.

Problem Solving

From managing unrealistic client demands to dealing with less-than-ideal working conditions, painters and decorators face many problems in their day-to-day jobs. Finding ways to work around these problems in a way that minimises costs, keeps clients happy and allows for a high standard of work is a crucial aspect of this profession.


Getting Qualified

Although it’s possible to provide painting and decorating services without any formal training, earning a qualification will improve your chances of finding steady employment. Not sure how to become a painter apprentice? Major Training’s Certificate III in Painting and Decorating is designed to help students develop common skills used in this field and the broader construction industry.

You’ll learn how to complete advanced decorative paint finishes, apply wallpaper, interpret building plans, and a range of other essential skills. Designed to lay the foundations for a successful career in the painting and decorating business, you’ll be able to offer an exceptional standard of craftmanship upon graduating.

To enrol in this course, you must be employed full-time or part-time and have access to a workplace where you can gain relevant experience. For more information, please enquire online or give Major Training a call on 1300 790 822 today.

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