Certificate IV in Residential Drafting

Overview

Looking to start a career in building design or enhance your drafting skills? The Certificate IV in Residential Drafting (CPP40121) is your gateway to the residential building design industry. This practical, industry-focused course equips you with the knowledge and tools to prepare accurate documentation for Class 1 and 10 buildings, a critical step before planning and building permits can be approved. 

Over twelve months, you’ll gain a solid understanding of regulatory requirements, explore construction materials and methods, and learn two powerful 3D drafting programs: SketchUp and Autodesk Revit. Whether you’re entering the industry or upskilling, this qualification opens doors to drafting roles in building design practices, architecture firms, and more.

Note

• Course is ONLY delivered online.
• Includes practical sessions and simulated workplace environments.
• Expect 15-20 hours of outside of class time
• Students will be provided with a Delivery Calendar outlining class dates and assessment deadlines to help them plan and stay on track.

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Where and When

Select a location to view course offerings and apply.

If the Apply Now button is not visible, submit an enquiry and we'll let you know when course applications open.

Please note: We reserve the right to close course intakes early. Many courses have limited places and high demand. Early applications are recommended. We reserve the right to cancel intakes and courses if there are insufficient student numbers.

Duration

Online: 12 Months

Requirements

You may need to complete an interview as part of the selection process for this course dependant on LLN entry level. You require sound English language and literacy skills. You need to have successfully completed Year 12, or enrol as a mature age applicant and/or have relevant work experience in the building industry.

This qualification involves a significant amount of self-directed study, students should expect to spend 15-20 hours per week on self-directed in addition to class time. Assessments have due dates that need to be met, and the course must be completed within 12 months.

If you are not located near Wodonga TAFE, you will need to obtain your Construction Induction Card (White Card) through an external provider that offers face-to-face training. If you already hold a White Card, you will need to provide a Statement of Attainment and a transcript as evidence so that a credit can be applied to your enrolment.

This course requires students to independently navigate online learning environments and digital industry resources. Students must be able to:

• Confidently use Moodle to access course materials and submit assessments

• Locate relevant digital learning materials

• Interpret technical documentation and instructional content

• Apply information from online resources to practical drafting tasks

Students must have:

• Laptop or PC capable of running Autodesk Revit (see Autodesk Revit 2025 system requirements).
• Internet access for online resources and submissions
• Computer camera and headset for online classes.
• Access to an A3 printer (e.g. Officeworks).
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for site visits:
  • High-visability vest
  • Closed-toe footwear

Required Resources:

• Hardcopy book: Building Your Own Home by George Wilkie - must be purchased by students after enrolment
• Hand drafting tools:
  • Staedtler Pigment Liner 6-pack assorted
  • Staedtler Scale Rule
  • Set Squares (30/60 and 45/45 degree)
  • Faber Castell Graphite Sketch Set (8-piece)

Software Requirements:

• Autodesk Revit - Free for students with an educational licence

• SketchUp Pro Educational Licence - Must be purchased by student after enrolment (student discount applies).

• BIM Pure Subscription - Must be purchased by students after enrolments (Student discount applies).

• Optional Tools App (subscription services for technical detail; purchased after classes commence) (student discounts applies).

Students will be informed of the process for obtaining these subscriptions once enrolled and as units are about to commence.

Assessment

The assessments will enable students to demonstrate the underpinning knowledge, skills and attributes required to meet the course outcomes. A range of assessment strategies to meet different student's needs will be selected. As this course is online, 100% of the assessments are done online, whether written assessments or tests.

• Assessments are typically due 14 days after the last class delivery.
• Tasks include producing compliant documentation, CAD drawings, and applying regulatory and construction knowledge. 
• While most tasks are office-based, site visits are required, so students must be mobile.

Other Information

This qualification prepares students for entry-level drafting roles in residential building design.

Graduates may continue to further study pathways that can lead to becoming a registered Building Designer or, with additional qualifications, an Architect.

Recent and relevant industry experience is highly recommended. Extended time away from the building or drafting industry may impact a student’s readiness to work with contemporary tools, technologies, and current industry practices.

Skills Developed

• Prepare to work safely in the construction industry (White Card)
• Produce digital 3-D models of building designs
• Work effectively in a building design environment
• Investigate materials for construction of Class 1 and 10 buildings
• Apply regulatory codes and standards to Class 1 and 10 buildings
• Understanding of planning and building permit application processes

Certification

By successfully completing this course you will receive a nationally recognised AQF Qualification

Compulsory Units

Fees

Fees Additional Information

The student tuition fees published are indicative only and can be subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.

Pathways

This course may articulate into further study at diploma or degree level, in architecture, building design, building construction management or interior design. This course can be complemented by the Certificate IV in Home Energy Efficiency and Sustainability.

Careers

• Building design assistant
• Draftsperson

How To Apply

Applying for a course at Wodonga TAFE is a simple 4-5 step process. You can learn more here: Understanding the application process

Select a location to view course offerings and apply.

If the Apply Now button is not visible, submit an enquiry and we'll let you know when course applications open.

Please note: We reserve the right to close course intakes early. Many courses have limited places and high demand. Early applications are recommended. We reserve the right to cancel intakes and courses if there are insufficient student numbers.