RTO 41462 · Nationally recognised training
Delivered byPet Stylist AcademyACM30122
The full nationally recognised qualification and the industry standard for a professional grooming career. Study the theory online at your own pace, with hands-on practical training on real dogs.
Nationally recognised · Skills Assure Supplier · RTO 41462
Up to 12 monthsSelf paced — most finish within 12 months
17 units7 core · 10 elective
Online theoryPlus hands-on practical training
From $3,240With Qld funding · $8,000 full fee
Any timeEnrol and start when you are ready
Full qualificationNationally recognised · RTO 41462
What the Certificate III covers, and what you can do with it.
ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services is the nationally recognised qualification for professional dog grooming. Completed with the Pet Grooming specialisation, it covers the full scope of salon work: bathing and drying, sanitary and hygiene grooms, cross breed grooming, breed standard styling, and managing coat and skin condition.
It also covers the parts of the job that are not about haircuts. Reading canine behaviour and handling dogs safely, assessing an animal’s welfare, infection control, animal first aid, and communicating with clients. These are the units that separate a qualified groomer from someone who has watched a lot of videos.
Training is competency based, so you progress as you demonstrate each skill rather than sitting through fixed class times. Theory is completed online at your own pace, and practical skills are developed and assessed through hands-on work with real dogs.
Everything about how this qualification runs — delivery, requirements, enrolment, funding and payment options.
ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services – Pet Grooming is the nationally recognised qualification for individuals pursuing a career as professional dog groomers. It equips students with a thorough understanding of the knowledge, skills and techniques required to work in the pet industry as a dog groomer.
Throughout the course, students immerse themselves in the craft of dog grooming, focusing on essential tasks such as brushing, combing, nail clipping, ear cleaning, bathing, drying techniques, clipping, scissor finishing, and precise pattern setting for different breeds. With a strong emphasis on grooming skill, students learn the intricacies of breed profiles, build speed and efficiency, and develop their full grooming potential.
The curriculum ensures students cultivate a proficient, responsible and professional approach to grooming. Under the guidance of qualified grooming instructors, students acquire the techniques and skills necessary to achieve competence in professional pet grooming and styling.
Hands-on grooming and handling techniques are complemented by a well-structured self-study program, providing a comprehensive and well-rounded learning experience.
2026 practical blocks
2027 practical blocks
The Australian Qualifications Framework determines that the duration of this qualification is one to two years. However, with both face-to-face training and flexible online learning, learners are typically completing within the first 12 months.
How quickly a student completes the course depends on how fast they work through the content, their commitment to learning, and their level of competence.
This qualification is taught using a blended approach that includes online lessons and practical training at the Academy. Our online learning portal removes the need for in-person classes to complete the theory units of study.
Online
The theory components are delivered online, so students are not required to attend classes or lectures. Students receive access to our Learning Portal where they will find course materials, interactive learning materials, videos and assessments, plus a hard copy of the Learner Resource. While studying online, students have access to our teaching support team via email, online chat or phone.
Practical training (hands-on)
The practical training is completed at the Pet Stylist Academy under the guidance of our qualified teachers and master groomers, for five weeks full time. This ensures students are taught the hands-on skills required to become a qualified groomer.
During practical training, students have access to a range of dog breeds to groom and can practise and perfect their skills in a safe environment. They develop the hands-on skills pivotal to promoting animal wellbeing and appearance, mastering grooming procedures for a variety of breeds including trimming, bathing, brushing and clipping.
A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is a personal reference number that creates a secure online record of all your nationally recognised training in Australia. Every student must have a USI to enrol in accredited courses and to receive their qualification or statement of attainment.
If you are currently working, or have previously worked, in a relevant animal care or grooming industry role, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning. RPL allows your existing skills and workplace experience to be formally assessed against the units of competency for this course, potentially reducing the amount of study you need to complete.
To explore RPL opportunities, contact our team at admin@nsti.edu.au to discuss your experience and begin the assessment process.
You can apply to enrol at any time using the enrolment form. If you would prefer to talk it through first, get in touch and we will walk you through it.
What is a USI?
A USI is a student’s individual education number for life. It also gives the student an online record of their vocational education and training undertaken in Australia. To complete nationally recognised training, students need a USI. Without one, they cannot be awarded their qualification or statement of attainment.
How do I obtain a USI?
Getting a USI is quick, easy and free. Follow the steps on the USI website.
When a student enrols into a course, the National Skills Training Institute needs a form of ID to support the enrolment. This is used to ensure the student matches the USI number. All documents are kept securely in the student’s file.
We offer upfront payment, payment plans and instalment options. Full details are in the Fees & Payment Options tab.
The National Skills Training Institute is an approved Skills Assure Supplier under the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training. This approval allows eligible Queensland students to access nationally recognised training with heavily subsidised fees, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
As a Skills Assure Supplier, NSTI delivers training through the Queensland Government’s funded programs:
These programs provide subsidised training that aligns with Queensland’s workforce priorities. Access depends on specific eligibility requirements and funding rules, so it is important to review your eligibility and choose the course that best suits your career goals.
If you are not eligible for government funding, NSTI offers up-front payment and flexible payment plan options.
The Career Start Program is a Queensland Government initiative that provides subsidised vocational education and training to help people begin or advance their careers. Managed by the Department of Trade, Employment and Training, it supports entry-level training for individuals seeking their first job, aiming for more skilled roles, or completing an apprenticeship or traineeship.
The program is designed for Queensland residents who are at least 15 years old and meet eligibility requirements such as citizenship or permanent residency. By offering government-funded training places through approved Skills Assure Suppliers, Career Start makes nationally recognised qualifications more accessible and affordable across the state.
The goal is to build a skilled workforce that meets industry demand while giving Queenslanders the confidence, knowledge and practical experience to succeed.
To be eligible for Career Start funding you must:
ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services is funded under the Queensland Government’s Career Start Program. Funding is divided into two categories.
Concessional — $3,240 co-contribution (17 units at $191 per unit)
Offered at a reduced cost for eligible students, such as those with concession cards, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students, people with a disability, or adult prisoners.
Non-concessional — $4,080 co-contribution (17 units at $240 per unit)
Applies to all other eligible students.
This refund policy is developed in accordance with the 2025 Standards for Registered Training Organisations and Queensland Government funding requirements.
1. Full refund — training not commenced. A full refund of the co-contribution fee will be provided where a student cancels their enrolment prior to the commencement of training, and no training or assessment activity has commenced. Training is considered to have commenced once the student has participated in structured learning, assessment activities, or accessed training materials as outlined in their training plan.
2. Proportionate refund — withdrawal from a unit. If a student withdraws from an individual unit of competency after training has commenced, a proportionate refund will apply based on the units commenced or completed, and the amount of training and assessment already delivered. Refund calculations are based on the unit cost proportion within the qualification. No refund applies for units where assessment has been completed and competency determined.
3. Refunds to employers or industry. Where an employer or industry partner has paid additional charges beyond the student co-contribution fee and the Queensland Government subsidy, a refund will be provided for any additional services not yet delivered, or charges paid in advance for training that has not commenced. Refunds do not apply to services already delivered or costs already incurred.
All refund requests must be submitted in writing. Refunds are processed within 7 days of approval. For further information, contact our administration team prior to enrolment.
This qualification is available to eligible students across designated Queensland Government regions under the Career Start Program.
For students enrolled in the general pathway, delivery includes a five-week practical training block at the Pet Stylist Academy, where students attend the Academy to complete hands-on training and practical skill development. Students undertaking the qualification through a traineeship pathway complete their training and workplace-based learning within their local area, supported through their approved workplace and training arrangements.
Eligible Queensland Government regions: Brisbane, Cairns, Central Queensland, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Logan–Beaudesert, Mackay–Isaac–Whitsunday, Moreton Bay North, Moreton Bay South, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Townsville and Wide Bay.
Students can only access a maximum of two subsidised training places through the Career Start Program. This means you may complete one general Certificate III qualification and one apprenticeship or traineeship, or alternatively undertake two apprenticeships or traineeships, including school-based options.
Once you have used these two subsidised opportunities, you cannot receive additional Career Start funding for further qualifications. This limit ensures fair access for all eligible Queenslanders and encourages careful selection of your training pathway.
Full course fee — $8,000
Pay in six instalments:
Queensland funding fees (co-contribution)
Co-contribution $3,240 (17 units at $191 per unit). Concessional funding is offered at a reduced cost for eligible students, such as those with concession cards, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students, people with a disability, or adult prisoners.
Invoice option
Enrolment invoice $240, then 3 × $1,000 instalment invoices
Payment plan option
Co-contribution $4,080 (17 units at $240 per unit). Non-concessional funding applies to all other eligible students who do not hold a concession card but still meet the eligibility criteria.
Invoice option
Enrolment invoice $480, then 4 × $900 instalment invoices
Payment plan option
Seventeen units make up this qualification — seven core units that everyone completes, and ten electives that form the Pet Grooming specialisation.
| Code | Unit title | Type |
|---|---|---|
| ACMBEH301 | Identify behaviours and interact safely with animals | Core |
| ACMGEN315 | Communicate effectively with clients and team members | Core |
| ACMGEN303 | Assess welfare status of an animal | Core |
| ACMGEN304 | Promote positive wellbeing for self and others in animal care workplaces | Core |
| ACMGEN309 | Provide basic animal first aid | Core |
| ACMINF301 | Comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care work | Core |
| ACMWHS301 | Contribute to workplace health and safety processes | Core |
| ACMGRM201 | Bath, dry and brush domestic dogs | Elective |
| ACMGRM303 | Perform sanitary and hygiene grooms for companion animals | Elective |
| ACMGRM304 | Provide grooms on cross breed dogs | Elective |
| ACMGRM305* | Groom dogs to meet breed style and coat requirements | Elective |
| ACMGRM403 | Enhance companion animal coat and skin condition | Elective |
| ACMSPE316 | Provide general care of domestic dogs | Elective |
| ACMGEN310 | Provide reception services for an animal care facility | Elective |
| ACMBEH302 | Provide enrichment for animals | Elective |
| ACMGEN311 | Maintain and monitor animal health and wellbeing | Elective |
| BSBCMM211 | Apply communication skills | Elective |
* ACMGRM305 carries a prerequisite unit requirement.
Unit codes and titles are drawn from the ACM Animal Care and Management Training Package. You can verify this qualification and our scope of registration at training.gov.au under RTO 41462.
Three of our qualifications are funded under the Queensland Government Career Start Program. Eligible students pay a co-contribution instead of the full course fee.
| Concessional | Non‑concessional | Full fee | |
|---|---|---|---|
| You pay | $3,240 | $4,080 | $8,000 |
| Per unit | $191 × 17 | $240 × 17 | — |
| Who it applies to | Eligible students including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with a disability, and adult prisoners | All other students who meet Queensland funding eligibility | Students not eligible for Queensland funding |
| Payment options | Invoice or weekly plan from $21/wk | Invoice or weekly plan from $26.50/wk | Instalments or weekly plan from $50/wk |
Five quick questions to give you an indication of which fee applies to you.
1. Do you live in Queensland?
2. Are you an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen?
3. Are you 15 or over and no longer attending school?
4. Have you completed a Certificate III or higher qualification in the last 10 years?
5. Do you hold a concession card, identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, or have a disability?
This is an indicative guide only. It is not a funding assessment, determination or guarantee. To confirm your eligibility you must complete the formal eligibility form, and your eligibility is verified by NSTI during enrolment against Queensland Government criteria.
Everything students ask us about the qualification, work placement, online study and recognition of prior learning.
Yes, all courses offered by the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI) are nationally accredited in Australia. Our programs meet the rigorous standards set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), ensuring that our students receive high-quality, industry-relevant education and training that is recognised nationwide.
NSTI is a Registered Training Organisation and our number is 41462. You can view our registration details on the Australian Government’s training website, training.gov.au, which provides information on registered courses and training providers. We highly recommend using the RTO website to research any training organisation you are considering.
At the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), we understand the importance of flexibility in education. That’s why we allow students to start their course at any time. Enrol today and begin your journey with NSTI at your convenience.
Yes, you can finish the course faster than the set duration. Our courses are designed to accommodate different learning paces. If you are committed and dedicated to your studies, you may be able to complete the course more quickly. Your progress will depend on your individual effort and the time you are able to dedicate to your coursework.
We understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may need more time to complete your course.
Yes, you can extend the duration of your course if you do not finish it in time. We typically do not charge any fee for this extension, as we believe in supporting our students through their learning journey without added financial stress. If you find yourself needing an extension, please reach out to our support team and we will guide you through the process.
Competency-based training is an educational approach that focuses on equipping learners with the specific skills and knowledge required to perform tasks to industry standards. Rather than traditional time-based education, competency-based training allows students to progress at their own pace, ensuring they master each competency before moving on.
This method is highly practical and outcome-focused, making it ideal for vocational education and training. By emphasising real-world application and hands-on experience, competency-based training ensures that graduates are job-ready and meet the performance expectations of their chosen industry.
Work placement, also known as Structured Workplace Learning, is an integral part of many of our courses. This practical component allows students to apply and expand their learning in a real-world setting, providing invaluable hands-on experience.
During your work placement you will undertake tasks and be assessed on your performance, ensuring you develop and demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have acquired in your course. This experience not only enhances your learning but also helps you build professional connections that can be beneficial for your future career.
Yes, you can complete your practical training at more than one workplace. This flexibility allows you to gain diverse experiences and insights from different environments. However, we recommend limiting your placements to no more than two organisations to maintain a consistent learning experience.
When selecting your workplaces, ensure that your practical placement aligns with the species-specific unit you have chosen as your elective. A signed Workplace Approval Form is required for each placement to confirm its suitability for your studies.
Students are assessed through a comprehensive Practical Task Portfolio during their work placement. This portfolio includes a logbook and practical assessments such as workplace assignments, which may involve case studies, photographs, written descriptions of workplace procedures, and video evidence of practical tasks.
Each unit also features Practical Task Worksheets that outline specific tasks to be completed during the placement. Supervisors sign off on each task once it is successfully completed. All practical assessments must be submitted via our online learning platform for evaluation by our tutors. Students must also maintain an attendance record signed by their supervisor to verify the completion of required placement hours.
If you are already working in a role that aligns with your field of study, you may be able to complete your work placement with your existing employer, provided they agree. This option is viable if your current workplace can fulfil all the requirements of the Structured Workplace Learning component of your course. If it cannot, you will need to complete the necessary hours elsewhere.
Your work placement must be supervised by a suitably qualified individual who has been approved by the National Skills Training Institute.
Yes, you can volunteer at an organisation for your work placement for an animal qualification. Many of our Animal Studies and Animal Care students complete their required hours in a voluntary position, whether at an animal or wildlife shelter or an animal-related business.
Before starting your work placement you will need to submit a Workplace Supervisor Form. Once we receive this form our teaching team will assess the organisation to ensure it meets the workplace criteria for your course.
Online learning at NSTI offers flexibility and convenience that sets it apart from traditional classroom-based courses. With online study you have the freedom to learn from anywhere — there is no need to be physically present on campus. You simply log on to our online learning portal to access all your learning materials and assessment tasks.
Our online courses are designed without set deadlines, allowing you to build your knowledge and skills at your own pace, as long as you complete your course by the specified expiry date. This self-paced model makes it easier to balance your studies with other commitments.
If you are new to studying or have not done so in a while, it is natural to feel uncertain about online learning. However, online study is designed to be accessible and flexible, making it a great option for almost everyone.
We provide all your learning materials and assessments through our online campus, so everything you need is in one convenient place. With just a computer and internet connection you can start your learning journey. Our dedicated Student Support team is here to assist you with any questions, time management tips, or study advice you might need.
With our custom-designed learning platform you can complete your coursework using a computer, laptop, tablet, or even a mobile device. Our platform is mobile responsive and user-friendly, allowing you to study anywhere, anytime.
All coursework is automatically saved, providing you with the flexibility to continue your studies without interruption.
Our online courses are designed to be accessible to individuals with varying levels of computer proficiency, from beginners to advanced users. Basic computing skills you will need include the ability to create, save and edit documents, access and search the web, and upload and save documents.
Having additional abilities can enhance your learning experience — participating in online discussions and webinars, uploading documents through websites, compressing image files, and creating different file types such as Word documents and PDFs.
Online study offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to learn when and where it suits you best. Delivering course materials through a customised online learning platform means students avoid the need to travel to a physical campus, saving both time and money. This is particularly advantageous for those balancing family, work or personal commitments.
Online study also promotes independent learning, catering to various learning preferences and paces. It is ideal for those who need to manage other responsibilities alongside their education and prefer a more self-directed approach.
Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) is a process used by Registered Training Organisations in Australia to assess and formally acknowledge the skills, knowledge and experience that an individual has acquired through previous education, work and life experiences.
RPL allows individuals to gain credit towards a qualification without having to complete the entire coursework. This helps to avoid redundancy in learning, enabling learners to fast-track their education and reduce the time and cost required to achieve a formal qualification.
Credit Transfer is a process that allows students to receive formal recognition for the competencies they have previously achieved through other accredited education or training programs. We acknowledge the qualifications and units of competency you have completed elsewhere, ensuring that your prior learning and achievements are not duplicated.
This means you can progress through your course more efficiently, avoiding unnecessary repetition and potentially reducing the time and cost required to complete your qualification.
To apply for credit transfer you need to provide certified copies of your previous qualifications and transcripts, which will be assessed by our academic team. Once submitted, our team will review your application and determine the eligibility of your previous studies for credit transfer.
Tell us where you are up to and we will come back to you with an honest answer, including whether you are likely to qualify for Queensland funding.
