Certificate III in Cabinet Making (Furniture)
Quick facts
Student type:
Quick facts
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Entry score
Not applicable
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Duration
Other -
Location
Melbourne City -
Fees
Next intake
FebruaryEntry score
Not applicable
Duration
Not applicable
Location
Not applicable
Fees
Not applicable
Next intake
Not applicable
Overview
In this program you’ll learn how to build and repair furniture made of solid timber and timber-based products, flat panel and veneered manufactured boards.
While exploring both traditional and modern construction methods, you’ll develop skills in using hand and power tools and both static and computer controlled machines.
You'll learn how to prepare materials and to monitor and run equipment and machinery. You'll be expected to apply design solutions to a defined range of problems and to provide leadership and guidance to others.
Tasks will include developing and building freestanding furniture items for areas such as the dining room and bedroom, as well as fitting out boardrooms and management offices. You may also be required to provide leadership and guidance to others with a limited degree of responsibility for their output.
This apprenticeship applies to those already working as a furniture maker in the manufacturing and installation sectors of the furniture industry.
This program is delivered through on-the-job training and assessment, as well as hands-on workshops and off-the-job training.
Details
In this program your practical experience and training is divided between your employer and RMIT.
You have the option to study in the workplace where an RMIT trainer will visit you regularly to carry out training and assessment.
You can also choose to study 1 day per week at RMIT in state-of-the-art facilities at our Melbourne City campus, working on industry-standard equipment such as:
- buzzer, thicknesser and dimension saws
- numeric controller Altendorf panel saw
- computer controlled 5 axis machining centre
We'll provide manuals and a variety of practical exercises. Your employer will also provide some training.
Program trainers have current industry experience and up-to-date knowledge of the market including the latest trends and innovations.
Your training includes lectures, workshops, presentations and group discussions.
Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes written, verbal and visual presentations, reports and practical assignments.
All programs are delivered in English.
You can access online resources through the myRMIT student portal.
This is delivered through the following competency-based training and assessment methods:
- on-the-job at your workplace
- simulated off-the-job training at RMIT
- blended mix of on- and off-the-job training
The following are examples of courses offered in this program.
Core courses:
- Communicate in the workplace
- Measurements and calculations
- Read and interpret work documents
- Use furnishing hand power tool
- Work in a team
- Work safely
Furniture courses:
- Apply decorative surfaces
- Assemble furnishing components
- Estimate and cost jobs
- Fabricate custom furniture
- Hand make timber joints
- Install furnishing products
- Join solid timber
- Leg and rail furniture methods
- Prepare surfaces for finishing
- Produce angle and curved furniture
Choose a program structure
| Title | Location | Duration | Plan code | CRICOS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Cabinet Making (Furniture) | City Campus |
One day per week for 120 weeks
|
C3317 |
Choose a program structure
Program code: C3317
National curriculum code: MSF31113
Career
As a furniture maker your work activities may include:
- liaising with clients regarding the job’s requirements
- matching furnishing styles and materials
- estimating job costs
- programming and controlling Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines
- selecting timber and timber products for furniture production
- fabricating custom furniture
- selecting and installing hardware for furnishings, such as handles and hinges
- performing on-site repairs and adjustments of cabinets
Apprentices are prepared for a range of practical and technical roles involving:
- furniture production
- installation of product
- furniture reproduction and restoration
Professional recognition and accreditation
There is no professional registration for the furniture maker in Victoria, however RMIT University engages heavily with the Victoria/Tasmania branch of the Furnishing Industry Association of Australia and similar groups in the sector.
Admissions
To apply for the apprenticeship you must:
- be employed
- be registered with an Australian Apprenticeship centre
- nominate RMIT as your Registered Training Organisation
Entry requirements
For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.
Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.
Pathways
Fees
The tuition fees you will pay for this program will depend on whether you are offered a Victorian Government subsidised place or a full-fee place.
To find out if you are eligible for a government subsidised place, follow the steps at ‘How to check if you are eligible’*.
The student tuition fees as displayed by the fee finder are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide. Learn more about fees for vocational study.
You may be entitled to apply for a fee concession or exemption if you are in a Victorian Government subsidised place and you meet the eligibility criteria.
If your application for a fee concession is approved, you will be charged 20% of the standard government subsidised tuition fee for your program. You will also be charged a lower rate on your student services and amenities fee (SSAF).
In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.
The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2019 is $303.
For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.
You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.
In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:
- Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) in each calendar year.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) - Student visa holders must have cover for the total duration of their visa.
- Some programs incur additional expenses.
You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.



