22701VIC Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship)

Name: Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship)
Price: <p><a href="#fees-and-scholarships">VET</a></p> AUD

VU course code: 22701VIC | Level of study: TAFE

Duration

3 months full time

Delivery mode

Face to Face with eLearning

Fees

VET

Location

Werribee, Sunshine

Next start date

27 January 2026

Application closes

27 January 2026

View all start dates

Overview

Lay the groundwork for an apprenticeship in the plumbing industry with the 22701VIC Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship) at Victoria University.

The program will ensure you are prepared to enter the trades industry by introducing you to a range of foundational plumbing skills and knowledge including:

working safely as part of a team
measuring and calculating
using industry terminology to communicate effectively
reading plans and specifications
using plumbing tools, equipment and materials
producing simple technical drawings
using basic welding equipment
use plumbing pipes, fittings and fixtures to simulate plumbing installations.

This course is designed specifically for those interested in obtaining employment as a plumbing apprentice. This course provides a direct pathway into the Certificate III in Plumbing and eventual registration as a plumber. With plumbing identified as a skills shortage area in Victoria, graduates can look forward to strong employment prospects.

For students studying this course as part of Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VDSS), the course is delivered over two years on a part-time basis at Sunshine and Werribee campus, subject to numbers.

: The 22701VIC Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship) aims to prepare learners with the knowledge and skills required to enter an apprenticeship (Certificate III in Plumbing) in one of the various sectors of the Plumbing Industry that includes:
• general plumbing
• drainage
• gasfitter
• mechanical services
• roofing.

The course outcomes include:
• communicating effectively in the workplace
• identifying employment opportunities and pathways in the plumbing industry
• interpreting basic plans and drawings
• applying basic leveling procedures
• carrying out basic measurements and calculations
• working safely and sustainably in the plumbing industry
• selecting and using the appropriate tools, equipment and materials to perform basic plumbing tasks.The outcomes of the of the Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship) does not meet the requirements for a registered plumber.
: You will learn in our workplace-simulated workshops, where you will be exposed to all aspects of plumbing. Our workshops have dedicated areas that relate to specific streams of plumbing.
Our training infrastructure includes:
oxy/acetylene welding stations throughout the facility
15 arc welding bays
25x10 metre sand pit to allow for real in ground installation of plumbing pipes and fittings
backflow and thermostatic mixing valve lab
a realistic 6 unit structure, to complete real plumbing fixture installations as you would in the workplace once you’re employed
dedicated gas, roofing and mechanical plumbing workshops.
: Everything you learn during this course has direct links to the real world. You’ll learn practical skills on special-purpose machinery at our Construction Hub, giving you the chance to test out your theoretical knowledge. Learning with us means you’ll get the hands-on learning to be job-ready when you graduate.
You’ll learn from teachers who have valuable industry contacts and the latest industry-standard skills. You’ll also develop links with industry and professional experience through:
industry projects
live work
site visits.
: Victoria University is a supportive place to study. We have a range of academic support programs that can help you if you're struggling with your studies.
We can help you with your assignments and assessment tasks, maths, writing skills and English language support, as well as showing you effective ways to study and manage your time and preparation. Our study support programs include:
workshops and study groups
student mentors and peer learning
maths and writing resources.
We also have disability support services and counselling services available for all students.

This course is nationally recognised training.

Entry requirements

When assessing your application, we consider your education, work experience, current skills and personal attributes (where relevant).

Applicants for this course will need to meet the entry criteria outlined below. If you don’t meet the entry criteria, you may be able to gain entry by first completing a different course. We call this a ‘pathway’.

You may also be eligible for ‘Recognition of Prior Learning’, which lets you finish your course more quickly when you have gained some of the skills required from past study or work experience.

Entry criteria

Credit & Entry pathways into this course

Victoria University is committed to providing a transparent admissions process. Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency. Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee entry into this course. Past academic performance may be considered.

Course structure

To be awarded the 22701VIC Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship), 19 units must be completed consisting of:

19 Core units

All units are core, providing a consistent outcome for graduates with basic skills that allow for employment across all streams of plumbing.

Units

Fees & scholarships

TAFE fees vary, depending on how much the government contributes towards course costs (if anything).

Read below to find out about the fee ‘type’, the estimated yearly tuition costs for this course, and the financial support on offer.

2026 indicative fees

Fee type¹	Tuition²	Materials³	SSAF⁴
Free TAFE	$0	$474 (max)	$261 (max)
Skills First subsidised	$1,869.60	$474 (max)	$261 (max)
Concession	$373.90	$474 (max)	$112 (max)
Full fee (not subsidised)	$9,840	–	–

Fee type – depends on your eligibility for subsidies and concessions; if you are not eligible you will pay the full fee amount
Tuition – the student tuition fees as published are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment
Materials – materials fees for supplies and resources are charged per unit
SSAF – Student Services and Amenities Fees for non-academic costs are charged at $0.33 (Skills First subsidised) or $0.14 (concession) per enrolled hour, up to the maximum per year

Scholarships

Careers

The plumbing services industry provides licensed plumbing and drainage services including installing and repairing water supply, sewer lines, septic tanks, drainage and gas systems. Plumbers mostly work in small businesses.

This pre-apprenticeship from Victoria University can help you get your foot in the door. It will give you the industry skills to apply for an apprenticeship and start your career in plumbing. Employers often prefer apprentice applicants that have undertaken a pre-apprenticeship.