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Key details
Duration
This program is delivered over a period of 1 to 2 years part-time. The length of time to complete this qualification will depend on the location, study mode and/or units selected and will vary depending upon how long a student takes to reach the required competency level.
Intake
Locations
Entry requirements
View full entry requirementsCourse code
Overview
Availability: Applications are open for 2026.
Online Application: To be confirmed. Please contact the team on the details below for further information on how to apply.
Apprenticeship/Traineeship: Currently not available as either an apprenticeship or traineeship.
This qualification reflects the role of an experienced plumbing service operator with advanced technical skills and/or responsibility for project design and supervision; or a hydraulic consultant responsible for designing hydraulic components and systems that meet client requirements and help in effective water management in domestic, commercial and industry contexts.
The plumbing industry strongly affirms that training and assessment leading to recognition of skills must be undertaken in a real or closely simulated workplace environment and this qualification requires all units of competency to be delivered and assessed in this context.
Completion of the general construction induction training program specified by the model Code of Practice for Construction Work is required before entering a construction work site. Achievement of CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry meets this requirement.
This is a licenced occupation in some jurisdictions. Licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements may vary between states and territories. Relevant state and territory regulatory authorities should be consulted to confirm those requirements.
| Delivery Details | |
| Location | Casuarina Alice Springs |
| Duration | 1 - 2 years part-time *Duration may vary depending on how long a student takes to reach the required competency level |
| Study Mode | Face-to-face Online |
| Start Date | January 19, 2026 - November 27, 2026 *A course timetable/study plan will be provided on application for the course. |
| Attendance | Monday - Friday 4:30pm to 8:30pm Lecturer will provide more detailed information *Information relating to study modes can be found in the 2026 TAFE Student Guide |
Career opportunities
Possible occupations relevant to this qualification include:
- Plumbing Contractor
- Hydraulic Designer
Credit transfers and advanced standing
Skill recognition
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) recognises skills and knowledge gained through previous study, work experience, volunteering, or life experience. If your existing skills and knowledge meet the requirements of a unit of competency, you may be eligible to receive credit towards your qualification. If you would like to apply for RPL, please indicate this when completing your enrolment form. For more information, please contact CDU TAFE Student Services on 08 8946 7111, or email TAFE@cdu.edu.au.
Credit Transfer
If you have completed the same, or an equivalent, unit through another Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO), you may be eligible for a credit transfer. To apply, submit a completed Application for Credit Transfer Form and supporting documentation. Applications are encouraged at the time of enrolment. There is no fee for credit transfer applications.
Pathways
VET to Higher Education Pathway Mapping for completed Awards in the same field or discipline.
If you completed a VET qualification at Certificate IV level or above and later enrol in a Bachelor degree in the same field, you may be eligible to receive credit towards your degree.
The table below shows the maximum credit available based on your completed qualification.
Completed Qualification | HE | VET | Bachelor Degree | Maximum Credit Available |
Certificate IV | * | 3 year Bachelor award | up to 40 credit points | |
Certificate IV | * | 4 year Bachelor award | up to 40 credit points | |
Diploma | * | * | 3 year Bachelor award | up to 80 credit points |
Diploma | * | * | 4 year Bachelor award | up to 80 credit points |
Advanced Diploma | * | * | 3 year Bachelor award | up to 160 credit points |
Advanced Diploma | * | * | 4 year Bachelor award | up to 160 credit points |
Associate Degree | * | 3 year Bachelor award | up to 160 credit points | |
Associate Degree | * | 4 year Bachelor award | up to 160 credit points | |
VET to Higher Education Pathway Mapping for completed Awards in the same field or discipline. | ||||
Further training pathways from this qualification include but are not limited to CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services - Hydraulic Services Design stream. | ||||
Professional Recognition |
Course Structure To achieve CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (Operations) a total of fifteen (15) units of competency must be completed comprising ten (10) core and five (5) elective units as detailed in the packaging rules and listed below. The electives offered may vary between campuses. 10 core units, plus
Please note:
The total nominal hours for the sequence listed below is 629 - 789.
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If applicable select Timetables | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Employability Skills |
2026 Fees
*This course is supported by the NT Government for eligible domestic students who are NT residents. A limited number of NT Government supported places are available, so secure your place now. |
Fees shown are indicative and subject to change annually. Actual course fees may vary depending on the units chosen. International non-student visa-holders; study eligibility needs to be verified before enrolment. Fees may vary depending on the visa type. For further clarification and information on fees, payment options, instalment plans, and refunds, contact CDU on 1800 061 963 or refer to TAFE Fees and Payments. | |
| Fee Exemptions | Exemptions apply to TAFE tuition fees for NTG supported courses only. At the time of enrolment, students in these categories will be exempt from paying tuition fees:
Certified copy of the evidence must be provided at the time of enrolment. If your course is delivered in a location that is listed on the NTG’s Location Categories for VET Funded Programs, with remote as the location category you may be eligible for the Remote 2 Location tuition fee exemption. |
General Description Availability: Applications are open for 2026. This qualification reflects the role of an experienced plumbing service operator with advanced technical skills and/or responsibility for project design and supervision; or a hydraulic consultant responsible for designing hydraulic components and systems that meet client requirements and help in effective water management in domestic, commercial and industry contexts. The plumbing industry strongly affirms that training and assessment leading to recognition of skills must be undertaken in a real or closely simulated workplace environment and this qualification requires all units of competency to be delivered and assessed in this context. Completion of the general construction induction training program specified by the model Code of Practice for Construction Work is required before entering a construction work site. Achievement of CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry meets this requirement. This is a licenced occupation in some jurisdictions. Licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements may vary between states and territories. Relevant state and territory regulatory authorities should be consulted to confirm those requirements.
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Course Information Flyer(s) CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (Operations) - 2026 | ||||||||||||
Accreditation This is a current, nationally accredited qualification from the Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package. | ||||||||||||
Locations and Study Mode Delivery at all locations is subject to sufficient demand and resources. Locations: Alice Springs, Casuarina Study Mode: On campus, online, both Subject to demand other locations and modes may become available throughout the year. | ||||||||||||
Entry Requirements Domestic | A Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Literacy (LLND) evaluation helps identify any areas where you may need additional support to help you achieve your goals. To gain entry into CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services, candidates require:
Required Resources Students will have 24/7 access to assessments and learning resources on CDU's online learning platform Learnline. Before you can use Learnline however, you'll need to ensure that your computer has the correct setup. Students are issued with digital and hard copy resources and will require access to a computer and the internet. Computer and internet access may be required to source information and complete assessments. Students are required to obtain the appropriate and current textbooks and Australian Standards (as listed below):
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Duration Estimated completion time: 1 year/s | |
| This program is delivered over a period of 1 to 2 years part-time. The length of time to complete this qualification will depend on the location, study mode and/or units selected and will vary depending upon how long a student takes to reach the required competency level. | |
Career Opportunities Possible occupations relevant to this qualification include:
|
Marketing Professional Recognition |
Marketing Course Description |
Marketing Career Opportunities |
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Further training pathways from this qualification include but are not limited to CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services - Hydraulic Services Design stream.
Fees
2026 Fees
| Fee Type | 2026 Course Fees |
| NT Government supported* | $2,421.65 - $3,037.65 |
| Full Fee | $10,774.77 - $13,515.57 |
*This course is supported by the NT Government for eligible domestic students who are NT residents. A limited number of NT Government supported places are available, so secure your place now.
Fees shown are indicative and subject to change annually. Actual course fees may vary depending on the units chosen. International non-student visa-holders; study eligibility needs to be verified before enrolment. Fees may vary depending on the visa type.
For further clarification and information on fees, payment options, instalment plans, and refunds, contact CDU on 1800 061 963 or refer to TAFE Fees and Payments.
Fee exemptions
Exemptions apply to TAFE tuition fees for NTG supported courses only.
At the time of enrolment, students in these categories will be exempt from paying tuition fees:
- Recipient of a Centrelink payment
- Recipient of Department of Veterans Affairs benefits
- Enrolled Secondary Students
- Permanent residents with refugee or humanitarian status
Certified copy of the evidence must be provided at the time of enrolment.
If your course is delivered in a location that is listed on the NTG’s Location Categories for VET Funded Programs, with remote as the location category you may be eligible for the Remote 2 Location tuition fee exemption.
International VET Package
Course information flyer(s)

Why study trades at CDU?
Whether you're an apprentice, a trainee, or already working in the industry, our trades courses are for you.
Start your career or upskill in a variety of areas from construction and electrotechnology to plumbing and metal trades. Wherever your interest lies, you'll learn from experts with industry-standard technologies and tools so you can graduate workplace ready.
- NT's largest training provider
- Access to specialised trade training facilities
- Recognition of prior learning so you can qualify faster

Why study at CDU?
Study with the Northern Territory's largest training provider and gain industry-ready skills and experience.
- Access to first-class facilities
- Recognition of prior learning accepted
- Packages into higher education available for most courses

Why study trades at CDU?
Whether you're an apprentice, a trainee, or already working in the industry, our trades courses are for you.
Start your career or upskill in a variety of areas from construction and electrotechnology to plumbing and metal trades. Wherever your interest lies, you'll learn from experts with industry-standard technologies and tools so you can graduate workplace ready.
- NT's largest training provider
- Access to specialised trade training facilities
- Recognition of prior learning so you can qualify faster

Why study at CDU?
Study with the Northern Territory's largest training provider and gain industry-ready skills and experience.
- Access to first-class facilities
- Recognition of prior learning accepted
- Packages into higher education available for most courses
What will I study?
To achieve CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (Operations) a total of fifteen (15) units of competency must be completed comprising ten (10) core and five (5) elective units as detailed in the packaging rules and listed below. The electives offered may vary between campuses.
Course structure
10 core units, plus
5 elective units, of which:
- at least 1 elective must be from Group B
- the remaining 4 electives from Group A or Group B
- 2 units may be replaced by units from other Training packages or nationally accredited courses at Certificate IV level and above, provided they do not duplicate the outcome of another unit chosen for the qualification.
Please note:
- If you chose the non-gas stream, you will be assessed in CPCPRF4011 Design and size roof drainage systems
- If you choose the gas stream, you will be assessed in CPCPGS4022 Service Type A gas appliances
The total nominal hours for the sequence listed below is 629 - 789.
| Code | Module/Unit of Competency | Hours |
| Core units of competency | ||
| BSBESB402 | Establish legal and risk management requirements of new business ventures | 60 |
| CPCCBC4012 | Read and interpret plans and specifications | 30 |
| CPCPCM4011 | Carry out work-based risk control processes | 24 |
| CPCPCM4012 | Estimate and cost work | 40 |
| CPCPCM4015 | Access and interpret regulatory requirements for the plumbing and services industry | 15 |
| CPCPDR4011 | Design and size sanitary drainage systems | 40 |
| CPCPDR4012 | Design and size stormwater drainage systems | 45 |
| CPCPGS4011 | Design and size consumer gas installations | 60 |
| CPCPSN4011 | Design and size sanitary plumbing systems | 50 |
| CPCPWT4011 | Design and size heated and cold-water services and systems | 80 |
| Total nominal hours for core units | 444 | |
| Elective units of competency (Select 5 from below) | ||
| Group A | ||
| CPCPDR4013 | Design and size domestic treatment plant disposal systems | 35 |
| CPCPRF4011 | Design and size roof drainage systems | 60 |
| Group B | ||
| CPCPCM2043 | Carry out WHS requirements | 50 |
| CPCPGS4022 | Service Type A gas appliances Pre-requisites: CPCPCM2043 and CPCPGS3053 | 180 |
| CPCPWT4022 | Commission and maintain backflow prevention devices Pre-requisites: CPCPCM2043 and CPCPWT3027 | 20 |
| CPCPWT4023 | Commission and maintain hot and heated water temperature control devices Pre-requisites: CPCPCM2043 and CPCPWT3022 | 20 |
| Total nominal hours for elective units | 185 - 345 | |
| Total nominal hours for the qualification | 629 - 789 | |
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
A Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Literacy (LLND) evaluation helps identify any areas where you may need additional support to help you achieve your goals.
To gain entry into CPC40920 Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services, candidates require:
- Completion of a relevant trade qualification Certificate III in Plumbing such as CPC32420 Certificate III in Plumbing.
- An appropriate level of language, literacy and numeracy
- Confident computer literacy
- Achievement of CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry.
Required Resources
Students will have 24/7 access to assessments and learning resources on CDU's online learning platform Learnline. Before you can use Learnline however, you'll need to ensure that your computer has the correct setup.
Students are issued with digital and hard copy resources and will require access to a computer and the internet.
Computer and internet access may be required to source information and complete assessments.
Students are required to obtain the appropriate and current textbooks and Australian Standards (as listed below):
- AS 3500:2025 Parts 1, 2, 3, and 4
- NCC Vol 1, 2, and 3
- ASNZ 5601 Parts 1 and 2
All of my lecturers were top notch former tradies with a solid grasp of what they were teaching. Whatever my issue was, they were always there for me. It was great.
Yron
CDU student

All of my lecturers were top notch former tradies with a solid grasp of what they were teaching. Whatever my issue was, they were always there for me. It was great.
Yron
CDU student

Course details
Accreditation
This is a current, nationally accredited qualification from the Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package.
Location and study mode
Delivery at all locations is subject to sufficient demand and resources.
Locations: Alice Springs, Casuarina
Study Mode: On campus, online, both
Subject to demand other locations and modes may become available throughout the year.
Additional information
Contact details
Electrotechnology and Plumbing |
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
How to apply
How to apply for domestic students
CDU TAFE has several pathways for you to apply.
Visit How to apply for CDU TAFE courses for more information.
Admission requirements for domestic students
Before applying, you may want to check if you meet the admission requirements for studying with CDU.
CDU has many pathways to study, so don't worry if you don't meet the admission requirements right now. There is a study pathway to get you started on your journey.
Not sure if you are a domestic or international student?
That's OK - it can be a little tricky to know the difference.
To help you out, we've put together a guide to answer any questions you might have.
How to apply for international students
Applications to CDU must be submitted online.
The process is simple, all you need is a valid email address to create your online account.
Once you have started the application you will have the option of saving your application and resuming it at a later date.
There is no application fee when you apply online.
Find a CDU agent partner
Applicants may seek further information about international education in Australia from the Australian Government Department of Education and Training or from our overseas / external representatives.
To help with the process, we've compile a list of authorised representatives.
Not sure if you are a domestic or international student?
That's OK - it can be a little tricky to know the difference.
To help you out, we've put together a guide to answer any questions you might have.
Things like the difference between domestic and international students or the difference between course types like TAFE and undergraduate.



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