Certificate IV in Building and Construction

The Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) is designed for individuals looking to build a career as a builder or site supervisor in the construction industry. This qualification focuses on managing low-rise residential construction projects while developing a strong understanding of building plans, construction methods, and Australian building codes and standards.

Students gain practical skills in project planning, cost estimation, site supervision, and coordinating materials and labour. This course also forms part of the eligibility requirements for applying for a builder’s licence (subject to state and territory regulations) and provides a solid pathway for further study or career advancement in the construction sector.

In this course, you will develop the skills and knowledge to:

• Interpret and apply residential building plans, specifications, and contracts
• Plan and manage low-rise building and construction projects
• Estimate construction costs and prepare basic budgets
• Schedule and coordinate materials, labour, and resources
• Supervise on-site construction activities and ensure work meets quality standards
• Understand and apply Australian building codes, regulations, and compliance requirements
• Implement workplace health and safety practices in construction environments
• Communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and stakeholders

To successfully complete this qualification, students must complete a total of 19 units, including 11 core and 8 elective units. Some of the units of this course are listed below:

Core Units

• 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

• 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
• BSBWRT411 Write complex documents
• BSBPEF501 Manage personal and professional development

General Entry Requirements

All applicants seeking to enrol at the Victorian International Institute of Technical Education (VIITE) must meet the following minimum entry requirements:

Age Requirement:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of course commencement.

English Language Proficiency (International Students)

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following:

• IELTS : Minimum overall band score of 6.0 (test results must be no more than 2 years old).
• Education in English : Evidence of at least 5 years of study in an English-speaking country.
• Previous Study in Australia : Completion of a Certificate III or higher qualification at an Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO) within the last 2 years.
• Other English Language Tests : Equivalent scores in recognised tests such as PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Results must also be within 2 years from the test date.

To verify equivalency to an IELTS score of 6.0, use the comparison tools provided at: Compare IELTS Scores

Numeracy Skills Requirement

Applicants must also satisfy the course-specific numeracy requirements, which may be assessed through:

• A language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) test conducted by VIITE, or
• Equivalent qualification or experience demonstrating sufficient numeracy competence.

Course-Specific Requirements

• Some courses may have additional requirements, such as:
• Work placement prerequisites (e.g. police checks, vaccinations, working with children checks).
• Physical capacity to complete tasks specific to the industry (e.g. for cookery, healthcare, or construction courses).
• Portfolio submission, interview assessment, or prior program completion may be required for selected courses or specific qualifications.

• Total Number of Units = 19
• 11 Core Units
• 8 Elective Units

• Offshore Student Tuition Fee: $AU 16,500.00 (This fee excludes the material and enrolment fees)

For all enquiries regarding student fees, please contact us at enquiries@viite.edu.au or telephone 1300 318 747

All fees are subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the Fees and Refund Policy.

Graduates of the Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) may pursue employment opportunities in a range of roles within the construction industry, including:

• Builder
• Construction Supervisor
• Site Supervisor
• Building Associate

This qualification also supports pathways into self-employment or further study, such as the Diploma of Building and Construction (Building). The course meets part of the eligibility requirements for applying for a builder’s licence, subject to state and territory licensing authorities.

Training is delivered by qualified trainers and assessors through structured sessions that include trainer-led instruction, practical activities, and independent learning. Assessment is conducted using a range of methods, including practical demonstrations, written assessments, projects, and workplace-based assessment where applicable. Learners receive ongoing support throughout the program, and progress is monitored to ensure achievement of competency in accordance with national training package requirements.

Completion of this nationally recognised qualification does not guarantee employment, promotion, or licencing/registration outcomes.  Where licensing or regulatory requirements apply, these are determined by the relevant State or Territory authority and may change.  Learners are responsible for confirming current requirements with the appropriate authority prior to enrolment or completion.