This page is updated when information changes, but it's always best to talk to your training provider to confirm course details before you enrol.
Overview
This qualification is for telecommunications technology operators who assess installation requirements, plan and perform installations, test installed equipment, and fault-find when issues arise with installed equipment.
Telecommunications technology operators may work on:
- customer cabling networks
- digital reception technology
- optical networks
- premises cabling
- radio communications
- rigging, which also involves installing and maintaining radio antennas on high structures such as radio towers, and building and mounting sections of radio masts for a complete radio structure
- telecommunications networking
- wireless networks.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Work functions in the occupational areas where this qualification may be used are subject to regulatory requirements. Refer to the ICT Information and Communications Technology Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide or the relevant regulator for details of licensing, legislative or certification requirements.
Cabling at the customer premises must be carried out according to requirements of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and relevant industry registration bodies, in line with the specifications of the access network owner.
High risk work (HRW) licences are required for dogging work and rigging as outlined on the Safe Work Australia website.
The model WHS Regulations require people performing high risk work to be over 18 years of age and to hold the right HRW licence. HRW licences are issued by state/territory governments: refer to the relevant body to ensure compliance with regulations.
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Financial help
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Government funding is available for this course. Check your eligibility for:
*To be eligible for this funding, you have to do a traineeship.
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Cost
Course costs can vary by provider and location. Ask your training provider for a cost estimate.
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VET Student Loans are not available
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You may need to pay for equipment or materials.
To see how government funding could help to reduce the cost of your course, check your eligibility for funding.
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On-the-job training
- Completing this course through a traineeship can help you to learn the skills you need.
This traineeship is available:
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Entry requirements
This course doesn't have any entry requirements. It could be a good starting point for your career.
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Duration
You complete this course when you’ve learned the skills, not after a set amount of time. The times shown are estimates.
- Through traineeship:
2 years - Qualification only:
1–2 years
- Through traineeship:
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Delivery options
You may be able to access this training in these ways:
Course content
This course is made up of units.
All courses have core units—these are mandatory for completing the course. Most courses also have elective units, which you can choose from to suit your needs and interests. Not all training providers offer every elective, so check with your provider to find out which electives they can offer you.
For more information about course content, talk to your training provider or visit the National Training Register.
| Unit | Unit type |
|---|---|
| Determine and apply technologies within a telecommunications system | Core |
| Follow work health and safety and environmental policy and procedures | Core |
| Locate, identify and rectify telecommunications network faults | Core |
| Provide customer service to telecommunications customers | Core |
| Use electrical skills when working with telecommunications networks | Core |
| Use hand and power tools | Core |
| Address compliance requirements for new business ventures | Elective |
| Apply introductory programming techniques | Elective |
| Collect and analyse technical information | Elective |
| Commission an electronic unit | Elective |
| Conduct basic identification and fault-finding within cabling networks and customer equipment | Elective |
| Conduct basic tests and analyses of telecommunications copper cabling | Elective |
| Conduct radio frequency measurements | Elective |
| Connect internal hardware components | Elective |
| Construct aerial cable supports | Elective |
| Construct and test a radio communications device | Elective |
| Control traffic with stop-slow bat | Elective |
| Create scripts for networking | Elective |
| Cut over new systems and equipment on customer premises | Elective |
| Design communications wiring systems for customer premises | Elective |
| Develop integrated digital reception systems | Elective |
| Enter and work in confined spaces | Elective |
| Estimate and quote for customer telecommunications equipment installation | Elective |
| Hand over cable systems and equipment | Elective |
| Identify and produce estimated costs for building and construction projects | Elective |
| Identify requirements for customer telecommunications equipment | Elective |
| Identify, locate and protect underground services | Elective |
| Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices | Elective |
| Implement new technology | Elective |
| Implement system software changes | Elective |
| Implement traffic management plans | Elective |
| Inspect, clean and handle optical fibre cable and connectors | Elective |
| Install a complex digital reception system | Elective |
| Install a radio communications antenna and feedline | Elective |
| Install aerial cable for communications applications | Elective |
| Install and configure internet protocol TV in a home network | Elective |
| Install and terminate coaxial cable | Elective |
| Install and test internet protocol devices in convergence networks | Elective |
| Install and test network protocols | Elective |
| Install digital reception equipment | Elective |
| Install lead-in module and cable for fibre to the premises | Elective |
| Install network cable equipment | Elective |
| Install optical fibre splitters in fibre distribution hubs | Elective |
| Install ribbon fibre cable in the FTTX distribution network | Elective |
| Install systems and equipment on customer premises | Elective |
| Install telecommunications network equipment | Elective |
| Install underground cable for communications applications | Elective |
| Install underground enclosures and conduit | Elective |
| Install, configure and test internet protocol networks | Elective |
| Install, maintain and modify customer premises communications cabling: ACMA Lift Rule | Elective |
| Install, maintain and modify customer premises communications cabling: ACMA Open Rule | Elective |
| Install, maintain and modify customer premises communications cabling: ACMA Restricted Rule | Elective |
| Install, terminate and certify structured cabling installation | Elective |
| Install, test and terminate optical fibre cable on customer premises | Elective |
| Investigate business opportunities | Elective |
| Licence to perform dogging | Elective |
| Licence to perform rigging basic level | Elective |
| Locate and identify cable system faults | Elective |
| Locate and rectify digital reception equipment faults | Elective |
| Maintain an electronic system | Elective |
| Maintain cable network | Elective |
| Maintain computer hardware | Elective |
| Maintain hybrid fibre coaxial broadband cable network | Elective |
| Maintain standard operating environments | Elective |
| Manage spare parts | Elective |
| Modify and cutover cable | Elective |
| Operate and maintain radio communications technical instruments and field equipment | Elective |
| Organise material supply | Elective |
| Organise resources | Elective |
| Perform tests on optical communication system and components | Elective |
| Prepare to work safely in the construction industry | Elective |
| Provide basic system administration | Elective |
| Provide ICT advice to clients | Elective |
| Provide infrastructure for telecommunications network customer equipment | Elective |
| Provide infrastructure for telecommunications network equipment | Elective |
| Provide telecommunications services safely on roofs | Elective |
| Remove non-friable asbestos | Elective |
| Resolve technical enquiries using multiple information systems | Elective |
| Run standard diagnostic tests | Elective |
| Schedule resources | Elective |
| Splice and terminate optical fibre cable for telecommunications projects | Elective |
| Supervise worksite activities | Elective |
| Test cables and systems on customer premises | Elective |
| Train customers in new technology | Elective |
| Use optical measuring instruments | Elective |
| Use radio frequency measuring instruments | Elective |
| Use safe rigging practices to climb and perform rescues on telecommunications network structures | Elective |
| Work effectively in the digital and telecommunications industry | Elective |
| Work on and resolve recurrent network faults | Elective |
| Work safely at heights | Elective |
| Work safely in the vicinity of live electrical apparatus as a non-electrical worker | Elective |
| Work safely near power infrastructure at a telecommunications workplace | Elective |
| Work safely on live optical fibre installations | Elective |
Job prospects
The Certificate III in Telecommunications Technology sets you up for roles like these, but the skills you learn could take you even further.
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Other ICT Support Technician
ANZSCO 313199
Other ICT Support Technicians includes jobs like Applications Packager, Computer Systems Technician, and Telecommunications Computer Systems Technician.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Radiocommunications Technician
ANZSCO 313211
Radiocommunications Technicians install, maintain, repair and diagnose malfunctions of microwave, telemetry, multiplexing, satellite and other radio and electromagnetic wave communication systems.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Telecommunications Field Engineer
ANZSCO 313212
Telecommunications Field Engineers plan, design, commission and monitor complex telecommunications networks and associated equipment, provide technical advice and information, identify complex problems and initiate action to resolve them.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Telecommunications Network Planner
ANZSCO 313213
Telecommunications Network Planners plan the development of customer access telecommunications network infrastructure.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Telecommunications Technical Officer and Technologist
ANZSCO 313214
Telecommunications Technical Officer or Technologists carry out specialised design and support functions in telecommunications engineering including optimisation and performance monitoring of telecommunications networks, diagnosis and repair of faults, and the selection and installation of equipment.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (General)
ANZSCO 342314
Electronic Instrument Trades Workers (General) install, modify, maintain and repair electronic instruments and control systems.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Cabler (Data and Telecommunications)
ANZSCO 342411
Cablers (Data and Telecommunications) install internal telecommunications and data cabling, equipment and peripherals for computer networks, telephony, cable television and monitored security and fire alarms.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Telecommunications Cable Jointer
ANZSCO 342412
Telecommunications Cable Jointers joint, terminate and repair copper and fibre optic telecommunications cables installed in underground pipes, trenches and overhead systems.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Telecommunications Linesworker
ANZSCO 342413
Telecommunications Linesworkers install, maintain and repair external telecommunication equipment such as aerial lines, conduits and underground cables, radio and mobile phone antennae, and limited items of terminal equipment.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Telecommunications Technician
ANZSCO 342414
Telecommunications Technicians install, maintain and repair telecommunications equipment and appliances, such as telephones, mobile telephones, switchboards and data transmission equipment, in homes, businesses, telephone exchanges and other network sites.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Electrical and Telecommunications Trades Assistant
ANZSCO 899914
Electrical or Telecommunications Trades Assistants assist Electrotechnology and Telecommunications Trades Workers to install and maintain electrical and telecommunications systems.
Recommended education level:
Certificate I or secondary education
Training providers delivering Certificate III in Telecommunications Technology
It's a good idea to research multiple training providers to make sure you're getting the right training for you.
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Australian College of Information Technology (RTO code 31357)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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Comtech Group (RTO code 90933)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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J B Hunter (RTO code 90277)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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Milcom Institute (RTO code 6859)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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1 SDO TRAINING PTY LTD (RTO code 41558)
Contact this provider
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ASHLEY INSTITUTE OF TRAINING (RTO code 20749)
Contact this provider
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AUSINET (RTO code 41457)
Contact this provider
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Australian College of Information Technology (RTO code 45507)
Contact this provider
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Australian College Of Training & Assessment (RTO code 40954)
Contact this provider
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HOSPITALITY TRAINING AUSTRALIA (RTO code 6372)
Contact this provider
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NECA Training (RTO code 91632)
Contact this provider
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Skilling WA Pty Ltd (RTO code 52922)
Contact this provider
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Skills Recognition International (RTO code 32373)
Contact this provider
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TELECOM TRAINING AUSTRALIA (RTO code 46606)
Contact this provider
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The Australian Academy of Media (RTO code 45017)
Contact this provider
How to enrol in this course
To enrol, choose a training provider that offers this course. You can see provider details on this page.
When you find one that you think suits you, visit their website or contact them directly to confirm details like start dates, fees, funding, delivery locations and delivery options.
The provider will guide you through the enrolment process.
How do apprenticeships and traineeships work?
Apprenticeships and traineeships let you combine hands-on work experience with training. You’ll gain job-ready skills and earn an income while you complete a qualification.
As an apprentice or a trainee, you work with an employer while completing your training. Most of your time is spent learning on the job, with some classroom or online training to support the skills you're developing in the workplace.
For some jobs, you may need to do an apprenticeship or traineeship before you are allowed to work as a qualified tradesperson. For example, you need to do an apprenticeship if you want to work as a licensed electrician.
Find out more about apprenticeships and traineeships.
See more information about the apprenticeship or traineeship you’re interested in pursuing on the Queensland Training Information Service.
How long will this course take?
This course is competency-based training, which means you progress as you demonstrate your skills and knowledge, rather than in a set amount of time.
The duration shown here is an estimate for full-time study based on how long most people take to complete the course. You may finish earlier than other people, or it may take you a bit longer.
If you’ve already completed training or have worked in a relevant area, you could get credits or recognition of prior learning. This can reduce the training you need to complete a qualification, which could reduce the time needed for training.
Duration for apprenticeships and traineeships
Apprenticeships and traineeships take longer than doing the qualification on its own, but you learn valuable hands-on skills.
For some jobs, you may need to do an apprenticeship or traineeship before you are allowed to work as a qualified tradesperson. For example, you need to do an apprenticeship if you want to work as a licensed electrician.
Learn about how courses are delivered
Different courses have different delivery options. Consider your needs when you’re researching courses. Some courses may be delivered entirely online or partially online. Others may be delivered in a classroom.
Some courses, like those delivered through apprenticeships and traineeships, are mostly based in the workplace but with some classroom or online study.
If a certain type of delivery is important to you, talk to your provider before you enrol to make sure they offer that delivery option.
How to reduce the cost of your course
There are lots of ways you can reduce the cost of your course.
- The government could partly or fully cover the cost of your course. See information about financial help and government funding on this page.
- The government also offers funding for some costs related to your course.
- If you’ve already completed training or have worked in a relevant area, you could get a cost credit or recognition of prior learning. This can reduce the training you need to complete a qualification, which could reduce the cost.
Learn about financial help and government funding
The main cost of training is usually the course fees, which vary depending on things like which course and training provider you choose.
You may be able to get your training for free or at a reduced cost, or you could get help with paying for training-related costs. You can also pay for some courses with a VET Student Loan.
Find out more about getting help paying for your training or check if you're eligible.
What are entry requirements?
Some courses have conditions you need to meet before you can enrol in the course. They help make sure you have the right background or skills for the training.
Entry requirements might include a certain education level, skills or knowledge, work status, or experience.