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Short Course in Backflow Commissioning and Testing

SA4BKFLW26

Length

3 Days (part time)

Study Mode

On Campus

Short Course in Backflow Commissioning and Testing - SA4BKFLW26

Course Overview

Course start dates are indicative and are subject to change. Students will receive information from their teacher upon enrolment including a confirmed start date and timetable. If applicable, students will also receive information about a course induction and directions on where to go on the first day.

The Short Course in Backflow Commissioning and Testing provides individuals with the skills and knowledge required to test, commission and maintain backflow prevention devices in water services. It is designed for qualified plumbers looking to obtain a licence in backflow commissioning and prevention devices through the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).

Careers & study pathways

Where can this course take me?

Roles individuals may be eligible for include:

  • Plumbing contractor

Further study

After graduating, participants might like to undertake further study in the:

Course details

Upcoming dates and times

Choose a location below to learn more about when this course is offered and on which days you’ll need to attend.

Starts On: 23-Mar-2026 - Part time - Monday & Tuesday - 8.30am - 3.30pm - On Campus - Applications Close: 16-Mar-2026

Starts On: 20-Jul-2026 - Part time - Monday & Tuesday - 8.30am - 3.30pm - On Campus - Applications Close: 13-Jul-2026

Starts On: 14-Sep-2026 - Part time - Monday & Tuesday - 8.30am - 3.30pm - On Campus - Applications Close: 07-Sep-2026

Study units

Take a look at some of the subjects you’ll be studying when you take this course.

  • CPCPWT4022 Commission and maintain backflow prevention devices

Attendance & commitment

General public face-to-face delivery | 3 days course length | Part-time study load

Students are expected to:

  • Attend all classes on campus for 2 days (Monday - Tuesday) from 8.30am – 3.30pm (6 hours per class). There will be one additional day to undertake the VBA assessment (up to 3 hours).
  • Spend approximately 6 hours per week working through their course materials, research, revision and completion of assessment.

Assessment methods

Assessment methods may include:

  • Knowledge questions
  • Projects
  • Simulated demonstrations

Before you begin

Entry requirements

Mandated entry requirements

Student must hold the following pre requisite units:

  • CPCPCM2043 Carry out WHS requirements, within the qualification
  • CPCPWT3027 Install backflow prevention devices

GOTAFE Entry requirements

Before being accepted to this course applicants must:

  • Complete a Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) online test to ensure the required literacy & numeracy levels for the course are met.
  • Undertake a Pre-training Review by interview to ensure the course suits their needs and aspirations, and that they are likely to complete the course successfully.

Inherent requirements

To undertake training in backflow commissioning and testing to a safe and competent standard, students must be able to:

  • Read a site or building plan and identify water supply lines and locations.
  • Identify testing and commissioning requirements.
  • Read, interpret and apply manufacturer specifications for installing backflow prevention devices.
  • Understand the range of backflow prevention devices available and select those applicable to the hazard rating.
  • Perform accurate measurements and calculations and document results of work undertaken.

Student resources

Students must have:

  • Appropriate work attire.
  • A laptop/computer with internet access.
  • General stationery (Pens, pencils, rulers).
  • AS/NZS 2845.1 – Water Supply – Backflow prevention devices.
  • AS/NZS 2845.3, Part 3: Field testing and maintenance of testable devices.
  • AS/NZS 3500 National plumbing and drainage.

Enrolment

How to Apply

  1. Explore – Review the course details to check the fit for your goals. Our team is here from 8:30 – 5pm Monday to Friday on 1300 468 233 if you’d like to talk it through.
  2. Prepare – Gather any documents you may need, like photo ID, concession or eligibility evidence, residency or visa details, prior study or credit evidence, or your USI (we can help you find or create this).
  3. Apply – Click Apply Now and complete your application – its quick and easy.
  4. Skills Check – Some courses include a language and numeracy evaluation so we can tailor the right support before you start.
  5. Offer – We’ll review your application, contact you if we require anything else, and send you an offer. To secure your place, accept your offer and make any required pre-commencement payment.
  6. Welcome to GOTAFE – We’ll finalise your enrolment and share everything you need to feel ready. You may be asked to attend an online or in person induction session where we’ll outline the support available to you from day one.

Skills recognition / Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Skills Recognition is an assessment only process that may result in credits towards a part or full qualification. There is no formal training involved, although you may choose to complete further training as a result of the assessment process.

You can apply for Skills Recognition before you enrol in the qualification you are seeking. You can apply for Skills Recognition through one or both of the following processes:

  • Credit Transfer for formal training that might be equivalent to a new qualification or partial qualification.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for people who have relevant and current skills and knowledge that they have gained through non-formal or informal learning i.e. work or life experience.

Fees and payments

Student support

As an enrolled student at GOTAFE you may access a wide range of academic support services to assist you to meet the academic challenges of your course from our Learning Support Unit.

Learning support

A free and confidential service to help you build the foundation skills you need to be successful at TAFE. Improve your english language, maths and/or writing skills; enhance your computer, exam and study skills.

Learn more about our learning support services

Library

Our library team are passionate about supporting students to achieve their study goals. They have subject guides, referencing help, and online resources to assist you with you assessments.

Find how to reach out to our library in Shepparton

Jobs and study options

Our Skills and Jobs Centres can assist and talk through options for courses, careers, assistance with job applications and more.

Reach out to our Skills and Jobs Centres

Contingent Study Arrangements

Where a situation arises that prevents campus attendance (such as COVID restrictions, natural disasters, etc.) and it is deemed an appropriate response in protecting the health and safety of staff, students, and visitors, this course will adapt to alternative training arrangements, possibly using online methods of teaching and/or communication while students engage from home with their Trainers. Any required practical components of the course will be moved to a more appropriate time.

Whether you need support with time management, your mental health, grief and loss, a diagnosed disability, financial hardship, or any other challenge life throws your way, we are here to help.

Support for personal issues

We have a dedicated team to ensure students have the help they need with personal issues impacting studies such as homelessness, family problems & setting up payment plans.

Find out how the Student Experience Team can help you

Disability support

Get access to the supports and adjustments you need for your disability or medical condition to be successful in your studies.

Seek support from our Equitable Learning Advisors

Counselling services

We offer free counselling services to help you work through life's challenges including grief and loss, mental health or relationships.

Learn about our Student Wellbeing Advisors

Koorie Unit

The Koorie Unit is a culturally safe space on our Shepparton Fryers Street Campus for all Koorie students enrolled and studying through GOTAFE, or with one of our education partnering organisations.

Learn how the Koorie Unit can support your studies

Refer to the Student Handbook for information regarding Learner’s Rights Student Handbook.

Further information is provided at course induction.

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