Certificate III in Parks and Gardens

The Certificate III in Parks and Gardens (AHC31024) is delivered face-to-face, providing a practical and engaging learning experience designed to develop the skills and knowledge required to work effectively in parks, gardens, landscaping and horticulture environments. Under the guidance of experienced trainers, you’ll participate in hands-on activities and practical training that reflect real workplace tasks and conditions. Course Duration: Approximately 3–6 months, with up to 12 months to complete the qualification.

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

• Practical demonstrations of parks and gardens skills and workplace procedures

• Observation of tasks in simulated or real work environments

• Written assessments to confirm your understanding of key concepts

• Practical activities that demonstrate your ability to apply horticultural skills safely and effectively

This practical training approach helps you develop the technical skills, workplace knowledge and confidence needed to work safely and effectively across parks, gardens, landscaping and horticulture environments, while preparing you for employment and further development in the industry.

The Certificate III in Parks and Gardens (AHC31024) is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). To achieve the qualification, you must successfully complete 16 units of competency, including 11 core units and 5 elective units.

Core Units (11)

• AHCIRG346 – Operate pressurised irrigation systems

• AHCMOM304 – Operate machinery and equipment

• AHCPCM306 – Provide information on plants and their culture

• AHCPGD307 – Implement a plant establishment program

• AHCPGD309 – Perform specialist amenity pruning

• AHCPGD310 – Implement a landscape maintenance program

• AHCPMG301 – Control weeds

• AHCPMG302 – Control plant pests, diseases and disorders

• AHCSOL304 – Implement soil improvements for garden and turf areas

• AHCTRF309 – Implement a grassed area maintenance program

• AHCWHS302 – Contribute to workplace health and safety processes

Elective Units (Select 5*)

• AHCARB314 – Implement a tree maintenance program

• AHCARB315 – Inspect trees for access and work

• AHCARB320 – Install tree support systems

• AHCARB321 – Implement a tree protection program

• AHCCHM304 – Transport and store chemicals

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

• AHCDRG305 – Install drainage systems

• AHCECR301 – Maintain native ecosystem areas

• AHCECR303 – Implement biological reintroduction works

• AHCIRG337 – Measure irrigation delivery system performance

• AHCIRG338 – Troubleshoot irrigation systems

• AHCIRG345 – Install pressurised irrigation systems

• AHCIRG347 – Maintain pressurised irrigation systems

• AHCLSC316 – Implement a paving project

• AHCPCM303 – Identify plant specimens

Elective units to be confirmed at the time of enrolment.

* Four elective units must be selected from the listed electives. The fifth elective may be selected from the remaining listed electives or from another currently endorsed Training Package or accredited course, where appropriate. Electives must contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome.

The Certificate III in Parks and Gardens (AHC31024) is ideal for individuals looking to develop their skills and build a career in parks, gardens, horticulture and landscaping. It provides practical, industry-relevant skills for working across a range of outdoor environments and maintaining plants, gardens and landscaped areas.

This course is suitable for:

• Individuals looking to develop a career in parks, gardens, horticulture or landscaping

• Workers with some gardening, grounds maintenance or landscaping experience wanting to gain a formal qualification

• Job seekers looking to develop practical skills and improve their employment opportunities in outdoor industries

• Individuals seeking a career change into horticulture, landscaping or parks and gardens

• Gardening, parks or grounds maintenance workers wanting to expand their skills and knowledge

• Seasonal or casual workers looking to build their skills and progress into more skilled roles

• People living in regional or rural areas wanting to develop practical skills for employment in local parks, gardens and outdoor industries

Whether you’re developing existing experience or looking to progress your career, this qualification can help you build the practical skills, knowledge and confidence needed to work effectively across parks, gardens, landscaping and horticulture environments.