CPC40120
Certificate IV in Building and Construction
Plan, coordinate and complete small to medium residential and commercial buildings.
Course overview
CPC40120 – Certificate IV in Building and Construction is a nationally recognised qualification designed for individuals seeking to develop the skills and knowledge required to supervise building projects, manage construction sites, and coordinate building activities within residential and commercial construction environments.
Throughout this qualification, students develop skills in planning and supervising construction work, coordinating trades and contractors, administering construction contracts, preparing cost estimates and material schedules, interpreting plans and specifications, applying structural principles, and ensuring compliance with building codes, legal requirements, work health and safety (WHS) obligations, and relevant industry standards.
Successful completion of this qualification may support employment opportunities within the building and construction industry and may assist graduates in meeting qualification requirements for certain occupational licences or registrations, subject to the requirements of the relevant state or territory licensing authority.
These pathways enable students to develop skills aligned with either building-related responsibilities or broader site management and project coordination functions.
Entry requirements
To enrol in this qualification, applicants are required to meet ATR's enrolment requirements.
Age
Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Literacy (LLND)
Academic
Student eligibility
- Australian citizens
- Australian permanent residents
- New Zealand citizens
- New Zealand permanent residents
- Eligible temporary residents (excluding Student Visa holders where applicable)
Industry requirements
- Students seeking to enrol in this qualification should possess approximately one to two years of relevant industry experience within the building and construction sector.
- Applicants are also expected to hold competency in CPCCWHS1001 – Prepare to work safely in the construction industry.
- Completion of the general construction induction training program specified by the Model Code of Practice for Construction Work is required for any person carrying out construction work. Achievement of CPCCWHS1001 – Prepare to work safely in the construction industry satisfies this requirement.
- Builder and Site Supervisor licensing requirements vary across Australian States and Territories. Additional licensing, registration, industry experience or other eligibility requirements may apply beyond the successful completion of this qualification.
- Students are encouraged to confirm any licensing, workplace or regulatory requirements that apply within their state or territory prior to enrolment.
Technology requirements
- Students will require regular access to a desktop or laptop computer throughout the course.
Desktop / laptop specs
- Processor: 2.5 GHz or higher
- Memory: Minimum 8 GB RAM
- Available Storage: Minimum 100 GB
- Windows 10 (Version 1809 or later)
- Windows 11
- macOS Monterey (Version 12)
- macOS Ventura (Version 13)
- macOS Sonoma (Version 14)
Additional requirements
- Reliable internet connection
- Webcam
- Microphone and speakers or headset
- Mobile phone camera or scanner for submitting handwritten assessments
- A current web browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Safari
- Students should have access to Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Planner, To Do and Project.
Materials
ATR provides learners with the training and assessment resources required to undertake this qualification. These may include:
- Learner guides
- Assessment materials
- Learning resources
- Trainer support
- Digital learning resources, where applicable
Students will be advised prior to enrolment of any additional materials, equipment or personal protective equipment (PPE) that they are required to supply.
Assessment methods
Assessment is designed to determine whether students can demonstrate the knowledge and practical skills required to achieve competency in each unit of competency. Assessment is conducted in accordance with the Principles of Assessment and Rules of Evidence contained within the Standards for RTOs.
Depending on the unit, assessment methods may include:
- Practical demonstrations
- Portfolio of evidence (where applicable)
- Written knowledge assessments
- Projects and workplace tasks
- Case studies
- Oral questioning
- Logbooks or workplace documentation (where applicable)
- Third-party reports (where appropriate)
Students will receive information regarding assessment requirements prior to commencing each unit. Reasonable adjustment may be provided where appropriate, provided the integrity of the assessment outcomes is maintained.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
ATR – Alpha Training & Recognition Ltd recognises that students may have already developed the skills and knowledge required for some or all of the units within this qualification through previous work experience, formal training, informal learning, or life experience.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that evaluates an individual's existing skills and knowledge against the requirements of the relevant units of competency.
Students wishing to apply for RPL will be required to provide sufficient, valid, authentic and current evidence to demonstrate that they meet the requirements of the unit(s). Evidence may include employment history, reference letters, qualifications, licences, workplace documents, photographs, videos, logbooks or other relevant documentation.
Each application is assessed individually by a qualified assessor. Granting of RPL is not automatic and depends on whether the evidence provided demonstrates competency in accordance with the requirements of the Training Package.
Credit Transfer applications are assessed before Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applications where applicable.
Fees may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning assessments.
Students interested in applying for RPL are encouraged to contact ATR before enrolling to discuss their eligibility and the evidence requirements.
Credit transfer
ATR recognises nationally recognised training completed with another Registered Training Organisation (RTO) through its Credit Transfer process.
Students who have successfully completed identical units of competency may be eligible for Credit Transfer where the unit code and title are equivalent or have been deemed equivalent under the relevant Training Package transition arrangements.
Students applying for Credit Transfer must provide certified copies of their Statement of Attainment, Record of Results or USI VET Transcript prior to enrolment or as early as possible during the enrolment process.
Approved Credit Transfers may reduce the amount of training and assessment required to complete the qualification.
Students should contact ATR if they believe they may be eligible for Credit Transfer.
Packaging rules
- To achieve this qualification, students must successfully complete 19 units of competency consisting of 11 core units and 8 elective units.
- Building Pathway: to achieve the occupational outcome of Builder, all Group A elective units must be completed. Up to two additional elective units may be selected from Group B or the general elective list. One elective unit may be selected from any currently endorsed Training Package or accredited course, provided it maintains the integrity of the qualification's Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) alignment and contributes to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome.
- Site Management Pathway: to achieve the occupational outcome of Site Manager, all Group B elective units must be completed. Up to four additional elective units may be selected from Group A or the general elective list. One elective unit may be selected from any currently endorsed Training Package or accredited course, provided it maintains the integrity of the qualification's Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) alignment and contributes to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome.
Specialisation
- Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)
- Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Site Management)
Units of competency
Core units
| Unit code | Unit name |
|---|---|
| CPCCBC4001 | Apply building codes and standards to the construction process for Class 1 and 10 buildings |
| CPCCBC4002 | Manage work health and safety in the building and construction workplace |
| CPCCBC4007 | Plan building and construction work |
| CPCCBC4008 | Supervise site communication and administration processes for building and construction projects |
| CPCCBC4009 | Apply legal requirements to building and construction projects |
| CPCCBC4010* | Apply structural principles to residential and commercial constructions |
| CPCCBC4012 | Read and interpret plans and specifications |
| CPCCBC4014 | Prepare simple building sketches and drawings |
| CPCCBC4018 | Apply site surveys and set-out procedures to building and construction projects |
| CPCCBC4021 | Minimise waste on the building and construction site |
| CPCCBC4053 | Apply building codes and standards to the construction process for Class 2 to 9 Type C buildings |
Elective units
| Unit code | Unit name |
|---|---|
| BSBESB402 | Establish legal and risk management requirements of new business ventures |
| BSBESB406 | Establish operational strategies and procedures for new business ventures |
| BSBPMG422 | Apply project quality management techniques |
| CPCCBC4003 | Select, prepare and administer a construction contract |
| CPCCBC4004 | Identify and produce estimated costs for building and construction projects |
| CPCCBC4005 | Produce labour and material schedules for ordering |
| CPCCBC4006 | Select, procure and store construction materials for building and construction projects |
| CPCSUS4002 | Use building science principles to construct energy efficient buildings |
* This unit has a prerequisite. Students should refer to the relevant unit of competency for further information regarding prerequisite requirements.
Practical training and workplace requirements
This qualification includes extensive practical training designed to develop practical workplace skills relevant to the building and construction industry. Practical activities may be conducted within ATR's training facilities, simulated learning environments and, where applicable, workplace settings.
- Planning and supervising building and construction work
- Reading and interpreting plans and specifications
- Applying building codes and standards
- Applying structural principles to residential and commercial construction
- Preparing cost estimates, labour schedules and material schedules
- Administering construction contracts
- Coordinating trades, subcontractors and site activities
- Managing workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements
- Applying legal and regulatory requirements to construction projects
- Conducting site surveys and set-out procedures
- Minimising waste and promoting environmentally responsible work practices
Where workplace-based training or assessment is required, students will be advised of any employer, workplace or licensing requirements before commencement. Students may also be required to comply with workplace health and safety requirements and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during practical training.
Licence & registration requirements
Licensing, legislative or certification requirements may apply depending on the state or territory in which work is performed. As these requirements vary between jurisdictions, students should consult the relevant regulatory or licensing authority to determine the requirements that apply in their state or territory. ATR – Alpha Training & Recognition Ltd is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) only. We deliver nationally recognised training and qualifications. We do not issue licences or registrations. All licences and registrations are granted by the relevant state or territory licensing authority. ATR does not guarantee that successful completion of this qualification alone satisfies licensing or registration requirements in every jurisdiction. Students are responsible for confirming current licensing requirements with the relevant authority. For the latest licensing requirements, please refer to the appropriate authority below:
VIC
Builder registration required. Individuals carrying out domestic building work as a builder must be registered in the appropriate class with the Victorian regulator. Registration requirements include qualifications, experience and other eligibility criteria.
View licensing authorityNSW
General Builder Licence required. A licence or certificate is required to carry out or contract for residential building work over the prescribed threshold. Applicants must meet the required qualifications and industry experience.
View licensing authorityQLD
Builder Licence required. Applicants must hold the required qualifications and satisfy the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licensing requirements.
View licensing authorityACT
Builder Licence required. Applicants must apply for the appropriate builder licence class (Class A, B, C, D or Builder Restricted) and meet the qualification and eligibility requirements for that class.
View licensing authoritySA
Building Work Contractor's Licence required. Individuals or businesses contracting or undertaking building work must hold the appropriate Building Work Contractor's Licence issued by Consumer and Business Services (CBS).
View licensing authorityWA
Builder registration required. Individuals and companies carrying out builder work must be registered in the appropriate class with the Building Services Board.
View licensing authorityTAS
Building Services Provider Licence required. Individuals or businesses carrying out building work may require a Building Services Provider Licence issued by Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS).
View licensing authorityNT
Building practitioner registration required. Individuals undertaking prescribed building work must be registered with the Northern Territory Building Practitioners Board in the appropriate category.
View licensing authority
Employment pathway
Successful completion of this qualification may support employment opportunities within the building and construction industry, depending on an individual's experience, licensing requirements and employer expectations.
Potential job outcomes may include:
- Builder
- Construction Supervisor
- Site Manager
- Site Supervisor
- Leading Hand
- Construction Coordinator
Employment outcomes are not guaranteed and may vary depending on individual circumstances, industry demand and applicable licensing requirements.
Student support
ATR is committed to supporting students throughout their learning journey.
Support services may include:
- Language, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy support
- Trainer and assessor guidance
- Reasonable adjustment for students with identified needs
- Additional learning resources where appropriate
- Academic support
- Referral to external support services where required
Students requiring additional support are encouraged to advise ATR prior to enrolment or as soon as possible after enrolment so appropriate support strategies can be discussed.
Fees and additional costs
Course fees, payment arrangements and any applicable administrative charges will be provided to students prior to enrolment. Students should also be aware that additional costs may apply throughout the course, including but not limited to:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Construction tools and equipment (where required)
- Replacement student identification cards
- Replacement Statements of Attainment or Qualifications
- Licensing or registration application fees payable to external authorities
- Reassessment fees (where applicable in accordance with ATR policies)
Prospective students are encouraged to contact ATR if they require further information regarding course fees, payment arrangements or additional costs prior to enrolment.
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is required for all students undertaking nationally recognised training in Australia.
Students must provide a valid USI prior to the issuance of a Statement of Attainment or Qualification.
If a student does not have a USI, ATR can provide information on how to create one before enrolment.
Further information is available from the Australian Government USI website.
Complaints and appeals
ATR is committed to providing a fair, transparent and accessible complaints and appeals process.
Students who are dissatisfied with any aspect of their training, assessment or the services provided by ATR may lodge a complaint or appeal in accordance with ATR's Complaints and Appeals Policy.
Complaints and appeals are managed fairly, confidentially and without disadvantage to the student.
Further information is available by contacting ATR.
Ready to enrol in Certificate IV in Building and Construction?
Contact our team to discuss eligibility, intake dates, and next steps.