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Key details
Duration
This program is delivered over a period of 6 to 12 months. 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 for 2026 are now closed. The next available intake will commence in Semester 1 2027 with applications opening in November 2026.
Online Application: This course is available for online application.
Apprenticeships/Traineeships: This course can be undertaken as a traineeship. Visit TAFE Apprenticeships and Traineeships for more information. (example)
This qualification reflects the role of group and gym fitness instructors. These fitness instructors may plan and deliver group exercise sessions and develop gym-based programs for individuals where the level of personalised instruction and ongoing client monitoring is limited.
They work in predictable environments under general supervision. When instructing groups or interacting with clients, they use discretion and judgment to solve routine issues within the parameters of clearly defined organisational policies and procedures.
The skills in this qualification must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.
| Delivery Details | |
| Location | Alice Springs Casuarina Katherine Online |
| Duration | 6 months full-time 12 months part-time *Duration may vary depending on how long a student takes to reach the required competency level |
| Study Mode | Blended Face-to-face Online Workplace *Information relating to study modes can be found in the 2026 TAFE Student Guide |
| Start Date | Semester 1 - 02/02/2026 Semester 2 - 13/07/2026 *Students can enrol at any time after the identified start date and will commence at the start of the next available unit. A specific commencement date will be determined in consultation with the delivery team. *A course timetable/study plan will be provided on application for the course. |
| Attendance | Classes Tuesday 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm Tutorial/Drop-in Session Tuesday 3:00pm to 5:00pm |
Career opportunities
Possible occupations relevant to this qualification include:
- Aqua instructor
- Group fitness instructor
- Gym instructor
- Exercise instructor
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.
Further training pathways from this qualification include but are not limited to SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness.
This qualification provides a pathway to work as a fitness instructor in settings such as fitness facilities, gyms, and leisure and community centres.
Fees
2026 Fees
| Fee Type | 2026 Course Fees |
| Fee Free TAFE* | Free |
| Full Fee | $10,813.23 |
*This course is part of the Fee Free TAFE initiative. Fee Free TAFE and vocational education and training is a joint initiative of the Northern Territory Government and Australian Governments providing tuition-free training places to students wanting to train, retain or upskill.
Fee free places are available for eligible domestic students who are NT residents, limited 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.
International VET Package
Course information flyer(s)
Why study at CDU?
Study with the Territory's largest training provider and gain industry-ready skills and experience. Whether you're a high school student or a working professional, we've got the courses and qualifications you want plus the support and flexibility you need to succeed.
- Learn from expert lecturers and industry professionals
- Access to first-class facilities
- Recognition of prior learning to 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 at CDU?
Study with the Territory's largest training provider and gain industry-ready skills and experience. Whether you're a high school student or a working professional, we've got the courses and qualifications you want plus the support and flexibility you need to succeed.
- Learn from expert lecturers and industry professionals
- Access to first-class facilities
- Recognition of prior learning to 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 a SIS30321 - Certificate III in Fitness a total of fifteen (15) units of competency must be completed comprising eleven (11) core and four (4) elective units as detailed in the packaging rules and listed below.
Course structure
11 core units, plus
4 elective units, consisting of:
- 2 units from the list below
- 2 units from the list below, elsewhere in the SIS Training Package, or from any other current training package or accredited course
The total nominal hours for the sequence listed below is 783.
| Code | Module/Unit of Competency | Hours |
| Core units of competency | ||
| BSBOPS304 | Deliver and monitor a service to customers | 35 |
| BSBPEF301 | Organise personal work priorities | 30 |
| HLTAID011 | Provide First Aid | 18 |
| HLTWHS001 | Participate in workplace health and safety | 20 |
| SISFFIT032 | Complete pre-exercise screening and service orientation | 20 |
| SISFFIT033 | Complete client fitness assessments | 30 |
| SISFFIT035 | Plan group exercise sessions | 60 |
| SISFFIT036 | Instruct group exercise sessions | 80 |
| SISFFIT040 | Develop and instruct gym-based exercise programs for individual clients | 50 |
| SISFFIT047 | Use anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe and effective exercise | 100 |
| SISFFIT052 | Provide healthy eating information | 55 |
| Total nominal hours for core units | 498 | |
| Elective units of competency (ALL 4 units must be completed) | ||
| SISCCRO001 | Plan and conduct recreation programs for older persons | 40 |
| SISFFIT037 | Develop and instruct group movement programs for children | 80 |
| SISFFIT044 | Develop and instruct personalised exercise programs for older clients (unnamed) | 75 |
| SISFFIT045 | Develop and instruct personalised exercise programs for adolescent clients (unnamed) | 90 |
| Total nominal hours for elective units | 285 | |
| Total nominal hours for the qualification | 783 | |
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 SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness, candidates require:
- To have access to a Fitness facility supervised by qualified trainers (paid or volunteer).
- To hold or must be eligible for a Working with Children Check
Required Resources
Students will have 24/7 access to assessments and learning resources on CDU's online learning platform Learnline. Before using Learnline however, students will need to ensure that their computer has the correct setup.
Students are required to purchase a uniform shirt to wear when undertaking practical placement and attending community events.
Additional costs to students include:
- Working with Children Clearance - Standard Fee (Employment) $87.00
- Working with Children Clearance - Concession Fee (Volunteer) $8.00
The people-first approach to flexibility and supportive learning environment at CDU meant I could find a balance with study, work and family life.
Nikki
CDU student
Charles Darwin University is a platform that can serve as a bridge for your future. Australia is a land of opportunities and when you work hard you get to see the fruits of your labour.
Sharina
CDU student
The people-first approach to flexibility and supportive learning environment at CDU meant I could find a balance with study, work and family life.
Nikki
CDU student
Charles Darwin University is a platform that can serve as a bridge for your future. Australia is a land of opportunities and when you work hard you get to see the fruits of your labour.
Sharina
CDU student
Course details
Accreditation
This is a current, nationally accredited qualification from the SIS Sport, Fitness and Recreation Training Package.
Location and study mode
Delivery at all locations is subject to sufficient demand and resources.
Locations: Alice Springs, Casuarina, Katherine, Online
Study Mode: On campus, online, both, workplace assessment
Subject to demand other locations and modes may become available throughout the year.
Additional information
Contact details
Tourism, Recreation and Beauty Services |
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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