South Sydney College

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

The Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology (AUR30320) prepares learners for skilled trade roles within the automotive retail, service, and repair industry, with a strong focus on vehicle electrical and electronic systems.

This qualification develops the technical knowledge and practical skills required to work on automotive wiring systems, lighting systems, ignition and starting systems, charging systems, engine management systems, and electronic body management systems. Learners also gain experience using specialised electrical test equipment and applying structured diagnostic processes to identify and repair faults.

Delivered through a blended learning model, the course combines face-to-face classroom learning, hands-on workshop training in a fully equipped automotive facility, and required online learning activities. This delivery approach supports strong theoretical understanding alongside real-world technical capability.

On successful completion, graduates may seek employment as automotive electrical technicians or progress to higher-level automotive qualifications, subject to entry requirements.

What You’ll Learn

This course provides the essential training required to work in automotive electrical repairs. Key learning outcomes include:

• Installing and repairing vehicle lighting and wiring systems
• Diagnosing and repairing starting, charging, and ignition systems
• Testing and repairing basic and complex automotive electrical circuits
• Soldering wiring and repairing wiring harnesses and looms
• Diagnosing spark ignition and compression ignition engine management systems
• Diagnosing and repairing electronic body management systems
• Using automotive electrical test equipment, including multimeters and scan tools
• Developing and carrying out structured diagnostic test strategies
• Applying workplace health, safety, and environmental best practices
• Communicating effectively in an automotive workplace

Delivery and Assessment

• Face-to-face classes: Delivered at the Burwood campus
• Workshop training: Practical training and assessment at the Revesby workshop
• Online learning: Required learning activities completed via the student portal
• Trainer support: Ongoing guidance, feedback, and coaching from qualified trainers

Assessment methods include written knowledge assessments, practical demonstrations, and direct observation in the workshop.

Course Structure & Commitment

• Duration: 81 weeks (including term breaks)
• Study Load: Approx. 29 hours per week
  ◦ 15 hrs face-to-face (classroom and workshop)
  ◦ 5 hrs online learning
  ◦ 9 hrs study and assessment preparation
• Total Hours: 1,584 hours

The timetable is structured across 6 terms, with scheduled breaks and delivery aligned to unit sequencing and assessment requirements. A full training schedule is provided upon enrolment.

Licensing and Further Study

There are no licensing, legislative, or certification requirements attached to this qualification at the time of publication. Completion of the AUR30320 Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology does not in itself grant a trade licence or statutory authorisation.

Further Study Pathways

Successful completion provides pathways into higher-level automotive qualifications, subject to entry requirements:

• AUR40620 Certificate IV in Automotive Electrical Technology
• AUR40216 Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis
• AUR40116 Certificate IV in Automotive Management
• AUR40820 Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Overhauling

Graduates may also progress to diploma-level qualifications such as:

• AUR50116 Diploma of Automotive Management
• AUR50216 Diploma of Automotive Technology

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you have relevant industry experience or have previously completed equivalent units, you may be eligible for Credit Transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning. Speak with our enrolment team for a skills assessment prior to enrolling.