Cert III AUR30320 Govt Funded

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Auto Electrical — Nationally Recognised Training

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Duration 3–4 years (apprenticeship)
Delivery Workplace-based apprenticeship
Pathway Apprenticeship
Intake Rolling enrolments
Funded States SA · QLD

About this qualification

The Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology is the nationally recognised trade qualification for auto electricians. Covers diagnosis and repair of complex automotive electrical systems including charging, starting, electronic control systems, lighting, accessories and increasingly — hybrid and EV-related electrical systems. High employer demand across dealer networks, fleet operators and independent workshops.

Automotive electricians are among the most sought-after trade professionals in Australia. Growing EV and hybrid technology is increasing demand. Employers in dealerships, fleet operators and mining report consistent difficulty filling auto electrical roles.

How it's delivered

All training and assessment is conducted in the workplace. Your apprentice is assessed by a qualified Mechanist assessor during regular structured visits. No trade school blocks required — fully workplace-based delivery.

What you'll learn

  • Diagnose and repair complex automotive electrical faults
  • Service and repair charging and starting systems
  • Install and repair vehicle electronics and accessories
  • Interpret wiring diagrams and scan data
  • Service electronic control modules and sensors
  • Apply safety procedures for high-voltage hybrid and EV systems

Career outcomes

→ Auto Electrician
→ Automotive Electrical Technician
→ Fleet Electrical Specialist
→ Diagnostic Technician

Earnings potential

Qualified auto electricians are in strong demand. Typical earnings range from $80,000–$115,000 per year. Experienced technicians in fleet, mining and specialised EV/hybrid roles can earn significantly more.

Entry requirements

No formal entry requirements. You must be employed (or able to secure employment) as an apprentice at an auto electrical workshop or dealership. Mechanist can assist with employer connections — contact our team.

Funding options

  • Career Start — Apprenticeship Pathway (QLD)
  • Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s (QLD — eligible apprentices)
  • Skills SA Subsidised Training — SA
  • Smart and Skilled EAT — NSW

Contact us for a personalised eligibility check.

Student fees

Government-subsidised fees (student contribution only):

SA$1,800
QLD$2,000

Fee for Service: $12,000

Fees may vary. Contact us to confirm your eligibility and exact fee.

Units of Competency

Units listed below are from the current AUR30320 training package release. Elective units are selected to best match industry needs and employer requirements.

Core Units

AURASA102 Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace
AURAEA002 Follow environmental and sustainability best practice in an automotive workplace
AURETK002 Use and maintain electrical test equipment in an automotive workplace
AURETR125 Test, charge and replace batteries and jump-start vehicles
AURETR006 Solder electrical wiring and circuits
AURETR112 Test and repair basic electrical circuits
AURTTE104 Inspect and service engines
AURTTA118 Develop and carry out diagnostic test strategies
AURETR009 Install vehicle lighting and wiring systems
AURETR135 Apply knowledge of petrol and diesel engine operation
AURETR010 Repair wiring harnesses and looms
AURETR007 Apply knowledge of automotive electrical circuits and wiring systems
AURETR129 Diagnose and repair charging systems
AURETR130 Diagnose and repair starting systems
AURETR128 Diagnose and repair instruments and warning systems
AURETR131 Diagnose and repair ignition systems
AURETR123 Diagnose and repair spark ignition engine management systems
AURETR027 Install ancillary electronic systems and components
AURETR132 Diagnose and repair automotive electrical systems
AURETR143 Diagnose and repair electronic body management systems
AURETR124 Diagnose and repair compression ignition engine management systems

Elective Units (indicative selection)

AURTTK102 Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace
AURAFA103 Communicate effectively in an automotive workplace
AURTTA105 Select and use bearings, seals, gaskets, sealants and adhesives
AURTTC103 Diagnose and repair cooling systems
AURETR011 Install basic ancillary electrical systems and components
AURLTZ101 Diagnose and repair light vehicle emission control systems
AURETR120 Diagnose and repair network electronic control systems
AURETR122 Diagnose and repair dynamic control systems
AURETH011 Depower and re-initialise hybrid electric vehicles
AURETR144 Diagnose and repair integrated engine and transmission management systems
AURETR137 Diagnose complex faults in light vehicle safety systems

Unit selection is confirmed in your Training Plan at enrolment. Elective choices may vary based on your employer, workplace and career pathway. All units are delivered and assessed in your workplace.

Government Funded Training

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology is available as government-subsidised training in the following states. Eligibility conditions apply — contact our team for a personalised funding assessment before you enrol.

Government-subsidised apprenticeship training is available in South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales. Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s may apply in Queensland. Contact us for a funding eligibility check.

South Australia View funding details → Queensland View funding details →
Important: Funding eligibility depends on your residency, citizenship, prior qualifications, age and current training contract status. Do not assume you are eligible without confirming with our team. Government funding rules change — always verify current conditions before commencing.

Employers — we do the heavy lifting

Mechanist manages the entire training and assessment process. We visit your site, assess in real work conditions, handle all compliance paperwork and keep you informed at every step. You focus on running your workshop — we focus on the qualification.

✓We customise your apprentice's Training Plan with you in person — not a generic template
✓Theory and practical assessment is delivered at your workplace, not a TAFE campus
✓We coach you on supervision ratios, workplace requirements and compliance obligations
✓Dedicated trainer/assessor assigned to your apprentice — direct contact, no call centres
✓Funding eligibility checks, paperwork and claiming — we handle it for you
✓Performance management support available if issues arise with your apprentice

Ready to take on a trainee or apprentice?

Talk to our team about how we can support your training needs.

Enquire Now Call 1300 304 867
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