Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management

The Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management is delivered face-to-face, providing a practical and engaging learning experience that develops the skills and knowledge required for work in conservation, land management, and environmental restoration. Under the guidance of experienced trainers, you’ll participate in hands-on training activities that reflect real workplace conditions in natural and managed ecosystems. You have 12 months to complete the course.

Assessment is competency-based, meaning you’ll be evaluated on your ability to perform tasks and apply knowledge in realistic workplace scenarios. This includes:

• Practical demonstrations of conservation and ecosystem management skills and fieldwork practices

• Observation of tasks in simulated or real environmental settings

• Written assessments to confirm your understanding of key ecological and workplace concepts

This practical training approach ensures you gain both the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to work safely and effectively in conservation roles, while building the capability to support biodiversity, land rehabilitation, and environmental management projects.

The Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). On successful completion, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment for the following 16 accredited units of competency.

Core Units (2)

• AHCECR309 - Conduct an ecological and cultural site inspection prior to works

• AHCWHS302 - Contribute to workplace health and safety processes

Elective Units (Select 14)

• AHCWRK312 - Operate in isolated and remote situations  

• AHCNSY312 - Provide information on plants and their culture  

• AHCPMG301 - Control weeds

• AHCPMG302 - Control plant pests, diseases and disorders  

• AHCWRK320 - Apply environmentally sustainable work practices

• AHCBIO303 - Apply biosecurity measures

• AHCMOM302 - Perform machinery maintenance

• AHCMOM304 - Operate machinery and equipment

• AHCPCM204 - Recognise plants  

• AHCPMG308 - Implement pest management strategies

• AHCCHM304 - Transport and store chemicals

• AHCCHM307 - Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseases

• AHCPGD307 - Implement a plant establishment program  

• CPCWHS1001 - Prepare to work safely in the construction industry  

• FWPCOT3301 - Trim trees using a pole saw  

• HLTAID011 - Provide First Aid

• HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site  

• HLTAID015 - Provide advanced resuscitation and oxygen therapy  

• PUAFIR210 - Prevent injury  

• RIIMPO206D - Conduct bulk water truck operations

Elective units to be confirmed at time of enrolment.

*Elective units may change depending on delivery location and individual requirements

The Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management is designed for individuals who want to develop the practical skills and knowledge required to work in conservation, land management, and environmental management roles.

This course is suitable for:

• Individuals looking to start a career in conservation, environmental management, or natural resource management

• School leavers seeking a pathway into the environmental sector

• Existing workers wanting to formalise their skills with a nationally recognised qualification

• People interested in protecting and restoring natural environments, ecosystems, and biodiversity

• Workers in related industries such as agriculture, landscaping, parks and gardens, or land management looking to expand their skills

• Those seeking employment with conservation organisations, local councils, government agencies, or environmental service providers

This qualification provides hands-on training in conservation practices, ecosystem management, environmental monitoring, and land care activities. It prepares graduates for a range of field-based environmental roles while also providing a pathway to further study and career advancement within the conservation and environmental sectors.