CPP30321
Certificate III in Cleaning Operations
Learn essential cleaning techniques, infection control, equipment operation, and safety practices for commercial, healthcare, hospitality, and industrial cleaning environments.

This qualification develops the skills needed to perform routine and specialised cleaning tasks across residential, commercial, health, aged care and other environments. Learners build capability in infection control, customer service, safe equipment use and working to schedules. The course reflects the responsibilities of cleaners who may work independently, select appropriate methods and maintain safety and quality standards in varied cleaning contexts.
Who This Course Is For
- People working in or seeking roles in commercial, healthcare, hospitality or industrial cleaning
- Individuals wanting to expand skills in infection control, equipment use and specialised cleaning
- Staff who prefer hands-on, physical work in fast-paced environments
- Cleaners who may work alone or with limited supervision and want to formalise their skills
- Learners seeking a recognised qualification to support career progression in cleaning
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Apply infection prevention, hygiene and WHS practices in cleaning operations
- Perform general, periodic and specialised cleaning tasks across different surfaces and areas
- Operate and maintain cleaning equipment, chemicals and storage areas safely
- Work effectively with clients, diverse people and within teams to deliver customer service
- Follow work schedules, documentation and service standards in a range of cleaning settings
Course Snapshot
Qualification
Certificate III in Cleaning Operations
Duration
9-12 Months
Funding
State funding availability in NSW, QLD

This qualification comprises 14 units of competency, including 5 core units and 9 elective units, selected to align with workplace requirements and industry standards for individuals responsible for cleaning across a variety of industries.
Core Units
Elective Units (can be tailored)
Entry Requirements
Participants will need an appropriate level of Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills to engage effectively with this course. Upon enquiry, SWC will discuss LLND skills with participants to help determine any support that may be beneficial before training begins.
If undertaking this course as a Traineeship, participants are required to be employed on a regular basis in work that is relevant to the qualification being undertaken.
Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer (CT) if you have supporting evidence of any prior education and work experience. These options can reduce your study load or shorten the duration of your course. For more information, please refer to the RPL and Credit Transfer Policy on our Support page.
Course Commencement
This course offers flexible start dates with rolling enrolments throughout the year.
Course Duration
Typically, 9-12 months, delivered flexibly via our workplace-based training model with self-paced learning, primarily on the job.
Course Delivery
This qualification is delivered in the workplace, with all training and assessment completed in real work environments. Learners are supported by an experienced workplace supervisor/mentor and receive an SWC Learning Guide and Resources to help gather workplace-specific evidence.
Training includes:
- One on one Trainer/Assessor sessions every 4-6 weeks
- Self-directed learning using SWC resources and workplace policies and procedures
- Regular support via email and phone
- Real time practice of skills in the workplace setting
The program is self-paced and competency based, with most learners completing in 9–12 months. Ongoing enrolments available.
Assessment
You will be required to complete both knowledge based and practical assessments completed during work hours. These may include:
- Workplace observation
- Oral and written questioning
- Portfolio evidence
- Third party supervisor reports
- Simulated tasks (if required)
All assessment tools meet training package and compliance requirements.
Course Outcome
Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded the Certificate III in Cleaning Operations (CPP30321) qualification.
Smart and Skilled Funding (NSW)
Eligible learners and employers in New South Wales may be able to access government subsidised training through the NSW Smart and Skilled program. Funding is subject to eligibility and availability. For full details, please visit our Funding page.
Career Start & Career Boost (QLD)
Eligible learners and employers in Queensland may be able to access government subsidised training through the QLD Career Start & Career Boost. Funding is subject to eligibility and availability. For full details, please visit our Funding page.
Fee for Service
If government funding is not available or eligibility criteria are not met, this course can be undertaken on a fee-for-service basis. Please refer to our price list for current course fees and up-to-date pricing.
Fee-for-Service Price List