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A Spray Painter applies paint to vehicle surfaces. You might paint an area that has been recently repaired or apply new colour to a whole vehicle. Spray Painters prepare surfaces before painting begins and use finishing solutions when work is complete. As well as whole colour work on private vehicles, you might also spray paint artwork or signage on commercial vehicles.
Spray Painters should have excellent attention to detail and be able to complete their work to a high standard. You’ll need to have strong technical skills and be able to work well as part of a team. Spray Painters must be able to communicate well with clients and understand their needs. You’ll have to manage your time well and prioritise your work when necessary.
There are 5 courses available for people who want to become a Spray Painter.
Possible job outcomes:
A AUR20920 Certificate II in Automotive Body Repair Technology will prepare you for a range of roles in the vehicle service or repair industry. This course offers an introduction to this field of work and can get you ready to apply for an automotive or mechanic apprenticeship or for a role as a trade assistant. You’ll learn the practical skills you need to perform service operations on both light and heavy vehicles. The AUR20920 Certificate II in Automotive Body Repair Technology includes a range of hands-on units. Course delivery will vary depending on your provider, but you might cover topics including identifying basic automotive faults, inspecting and servicing batteries and engines, and servicing braking, cooling, steering and suspension systems. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
The AUR20916 Certificate II in Automotive Body Repair Technology (Automotive Painting) prepares students to perform various paint preparation tasks on light vehicles, heavy vehicles, and motorcycles. Graduates will work as Automotive Vehicle Body Repair Assistants, specialising in automotive painting within the retail, service, and repair industry. Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates..
Average duration: 24 months.
The MEM31922 Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade (Surface Finishing) equips you to advance in engineering by gaining expertise as a skilled surface finisher. This course prepares you to modify the surfaces of manufactured items for specific properties, enhancing appearance, adhesion, and durability against corrosion, wear, or chemicals. With industry-led training, you'll master techniques essential for product maintenance, repair, and bespoke development, ensuring readiness for roles in engineering fabrication. Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates..
Average duration: 12 months.
A AUR32420 Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology will set you up for a career painting and maintaining the surfaces of vehicles and industrial machinery. If you’re interested in a career as a vehicle refinishing technician, this course will give you the skills you need. You’ll learn to paint, refinish and repair painted surfaces on a range of automotive vehicles and non-automotive machinery. The AUR32420 Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology is a practical qualification with hands-on training in a range of trade techniques. Course delivery will vary depending on your provider, but you might cover topics including inspecting vehicle paint and recommending repair procedures, applying basic colour matching techniques and repairing thermoplastic body panels. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates..
Become a licensed panel beater with the AUR32120 Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology. This nationally recognised course is the training requirement of the trade apprenticeship in panel beating and requires 4 years of study under a qualified tradesperson. The course covers: assessing vehicle damage and determining repairs, replacing vehicle panels and componentry, repairing structural and alignment damage, rust prevention. The course also teaches a range of welding and thermal cutting procedures. Enquire now for the entry requirements and available training centres..
In Australia, a full time Spray Painter generally earns $1,150 per week ($59,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This industry has seen a drop in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 7,500 people working as a Spray Painter in Australia, compared to 7,900 five years ago. Spray Painters may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re planning a career as a Spray Painter, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology. This course will give you the skills to paint, finish and repairs painted surfaces of vehicles and industrial machinery. A Certificate II or III in Automotive Body Repair Technology may also be suitable.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within automotive. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Automotive
Apprentice Automotive Electrician
$960 weekly pay
Apprentice Caravan Mechanic
Apprentice Diesel Fitter
Apprentice Mechanic
Parts Interpreter
Service Advisor
Agricultural Mechanic
$1,000 weekly pay
Automotive Designer
$1,250 weekly pay
Automotive Mechanic
$1,150 weekly pay
Diagnostic Technician
Diesel Mechanic
$1,340 weekly pay
Forklift Mechanic
Mobile Plant Mechanic
Motor Trimmer
Motorcycle Mechanic
Motorsport Mechanic
Panel Beater
Small Engine Mechanic
$1,200 weekly pay
Spray Painter
Trailer Technician
Tyre Fitter
Windscreen Fitter
Parts Manager
Senior Automotive Mechanic
$1,350 weekly pay
Service Manager
Workshop Manager
Learn more about Spray Painter courses in your area.