TAFE Queensland
2 years
Launch your furniture and cabinet making career with this hands-on Certificate III. Combine workplace experience with structured training to master timber technology, woodworking machinery, and cabinetry skills, qualifying you as a professional cabinetmaker.
Domestic students must be indentured as an apprentice with an employer who can provide necessary resources. International students require Academic IELTS 6.0 (no band less than 5.5) or equivalent, completion of Year 10 or equivalent, relevant work experience, and must be minimum 17 years old (turning 18 during first year). All students need access to reliable internet, a computer with Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader, and personal protective equipment including safety glasses, protective footwear, ear protection, and cotton work wear.
Core units include using furniture making hand and power tools, producing manual and computer-aided production drawings, preparing cutting lists from design documentation, making measurements and calculations, reading and interpreting work documents, participating in environmentally sustainable work practices, communicating in the workplace, and working in teams. Elective units cover general skills like problem-solving, construction work health and safety, surface coatings, hardware selection, sheet laminates, furniture assembly, jigs and fixtures, and tool maintenance. Specialisation pathways include Furniture (traditional leg and rail construction, angled and curved components, timber selection), Kitchens and Bathrooms (edge banding machines, cabinetry installation and fabrication), and Wood Machining (sawing, drilling, joining, planing, routing, and CNC sizing machines).
TAFE Queensland is an internationally recognised education provider offering practical, hands-on experience in purpose-built classrooms, laboratories and workshops equipped with the same tools and equipment used in industry. The institution provides flexible training options including workplace training, block training, day release, and online learning. With multiple campus locations across Queensland and dedicated international student support advisors, TAFE Queensland ensures students receive comprehensive support throughout their studies and successful career transition.
Upon completion, you can pursue careers as a Solid Timber Machinist, Machining Technician, Wood Machinist, Wood Trades Worker, or Cabinetmaker specialising in furniture or kitchens and bathrooms. The Australian Government's Job Outlook service indicates stable future growth for wood trades workers. Employment opportunities are available across manufacturing, retail trade, and construction sectors with employers seeking reliable, team-oriented workers with strong work ethic. You can also progress to advanced trade qualifications or related diplomas through TAFE Queensland's university pathways.
