Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management

نظرة عامة على البرنامج

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Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management

Course Overview

Kick start your career in land management with this entry-level qualification. This course is perfect for people already working in the field looking to upgrade their skills.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, there is strong future growth predicted for people working as park rangers. Nearly a third of all positions are based in Queensland with employers looking for workers who can communicate clearly, have strong interpersonal skills, and can work well in a team.

This course will prepare you for anything the great outdoors can throw at you. You'll gain specialised skills in plant identification, seed collection and propagation, navigating trackless routes, operating machinery, and running revegetation projects. Our passionate industry experts are the best in the business and will give you the guidance you need to get ahead.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as a park ranger or on land conservation projects in a diverse range of settings.

What Can I Do?

• Pathway to Park Ranger
• Native Nursery
• Conservation Officer
• Bush Regeneration

Course Outcome

AHC31424 Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management

Hands-on Training

We take our lessons out of the classroom and into the field.

What You Will Study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 14 elective units from the list below.

Core Units

• UNIT CODE: AHCECR309
  • UNIT NAME: Conduct an ecological and cultural site inspection prior to works
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect a site for ecological, biosecurity, cultural and heritage risk and report discrepancies in planned works prior to commencing works.
• UNIT CODE: AHCWHS302
  • UNIT NAME: Contribute to workplace health and safety processes
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to contribute to workplace health and safety procedures, including applying policies and procedures, assisting in hazard identification and risk control, and observing safe practices during work operations.

Elective Units

• UNIT CODE: AHCBIO303
  • UNIT NAME: Apply biosecurity measures
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to interpret and apply control measures in a biosecurity plan to protect a site from the entry and spread of biosecurity threats.
• UNIT CODE: AHCCHM304
  • UNIT NAME: Transport and store chemicals
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely transport, handle and store liquid and dry chemical formulations across a broad range of industry sectors.
• UNIT CODE: AHCCHM307
  • UNIT NAME: Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseases
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely prepare and apply chemicals for the control of pests, weeds and diseases, using general application equipment.
• UNIT CODE: AHCECR301
  • UNIT NAME: Maintain native ecosystem areas
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and implement maintenance work within native ecosystem areas.
• UNIT CODE: AHCECR305
  • UNIT NAME: Collect native seed
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect, treat and store seed for native revegetation projects.
• UNIT CODE: AHCECR307
  • UNIT NAME: Read and interpret maps
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to read and interpret road and topographical maps for navigation or positioning and plotting purposes.
• UNIT CODE: AHCECR310
  • UNIT NAME: Implement assisted regeneration works
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist the regeneration of a degraded terrestrial or aquatic ecosystem harnessing potential from on-site components or colonisation from nearby areas, through ecological interventions and treatments specific to site.
• UNIT CODE: AHCECR311
  • UNIT NAME: Implement ecosystem reconstruction works
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the specialist skills and knowledge required to implement terrestrial or aquatic ecosystem reconstruction works on an ecological restoration site following a plan or brief.
• UNIT CODE: AHCFAU302
  • UNIT NAME: Identify fauna in the field
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to observe fauna characteristics for identification in the field using reference material. This is not an animal surveying unit; it focuses on observation skills and the identification of fauna from these observations.
• UNIT CODE: AHCINF307
  • UNIT NAME: Plan and construct conventional fencing
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and construct conventional fencing.
• UNIT CODE: AHCLPW311
  • UNIT NAME: Construct access tracks
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to construct access tracks and clear vegetation on rural land, and implement erosion control by using specialised earthmoving techniques at fine tolerances.
• UNIT CODE: AHCLPW312
  • UNIT NAME: Carry out inspection of designated area
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out an inspection of a designated area.
• UNIT CODE: AHCLPW313
  • UNIT NAME: Undertake sampling and testing of water
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and carry out sampling and testing of water quality as part of a monitoring program.
• UNIT CODE: AHCMOM213
  • UNIT NAME: Operate and maintain chainsaws
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely operate a hand-held chainsaw and maintain it in working condition.
• UNIT CODE: AHCMOM216
  • UNIT NAME: Operate side by side utility vehicles
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely operate a side by side utility vehicle including undertaking pre-start checks and shut down procedures.
• UNIT CODE: AHCMOM302
  • UNIT NAME: Perform machinery maintenance
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain machinery and equipment that is used principally in agriculture, horticulture, and conservation and land management work.
• UNIT CODE: AHCMOM304
  • UNIT NAME: Operate machinery and equipment
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate and maintain machinery and equipment.
• UNIT CODE: AHCMOM315
  • UNIT NAME: Operate chemical application machinery and equipment
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate machinery and equipment used for specialised liquid and granular chemical application in agriculture and horticulture sectors.
• UNIT CODE: AHCNSY207
  • UNIT NAME: Undertake propagation activities
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for plant propagation, assist with plant propagation and complete propagation activities.
• UNIT CODE: AHCNSY313
  • UNIT NAME: Implement a propagation plan
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to implement a propagation plan, including; preparing for, implementing and completing propagation of plants.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPCM204
  • UNIT NAME: Recognise plants
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise commonly encountered plants, including desired species and weeds, and to document and confirm plant identification.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPCM205
  • UNIT NAME: Fell small trees
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for tree felling, fell small trees and complete felling operations where hazards have been assessed as low risk.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPCM303
  • UNIT NAME: Identify plant specimens
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect and describe the features and attributes of a plant for the purpose of plant identification and providing information to a client or organisation. It applies to individuals who take responsibility for their own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPCM306
  • UNIT NAME: Provide information on plants and their culture
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify client issues or requirements, identify the preferred solution, and provide information and solutions to clients.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPGD307
  • UNIT NAME: Implement a plant establishment program
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to establish planting areas, including preparing, implementing, reviewing and completing plant establishment work, in new projects and in programs of extensive replacement and renovation works across a range of situations and environments.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPMG301
  • UNIT NAME: Control weeds
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and coordinate weed control activities using appropriate strategies to provide effective, economic control while minimising environmental damage.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPMG302
  • UNIT NAME: Control plant pests, diseases and disorders
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and assess the effect to plants of plant pests, diseases and disorders and plan and coordinate control measures.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPMG305
  • UNIT NAME: Survey Pests
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to survey pest abundance by conducting ground counts, aerial counts or both. Pests may be weeds, vertebrate or invertebrate pests or a combination of these. Work may be conducted as part of an emergency response to an incursion or as part of routine surveillance. It must be conducted to comply with the organisation's pest management plan, survey strategy and monitoring program and in accordance with established standards and protocols. This unit applies to individuals who work under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work. They use discretion and judgement in the selection and use of available resources. No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication. However all units of competency dealing with animals in the AHC Training Package have the requirements for animals to be handled humanely to minimise stress and discomfort.
• UNIT CODE: AHCPMG307
  • UNIT NAME: Apply animal trapping techniques
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to trap and hold live animals for release, transportation or destruction. Trapped animals can be native animals, domestic animals, animals determined to be pests or feral animals.
• UNIT CODE: AHCSOL304
  • UNIT NAME: Implement soil improvements for garden and turf areas
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect and test soil samples for their physical and chemical characteristics and take corrective action to improve the soil for garden beds and turf areas.
• UNIT CODE: AHCWRK322
  • UNIT NAME: Conduct site inspections
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to conduct a site inspection, including verification of the location, ownership, orientation and boundaries of a site.
• UNIT CODE: CPCWHS1001
  • UNIT NAME: Prepare to work safely in the construction industry
  • Unit description: This unit of competency specifies the mandatory work health and safety training required prior to undertaking construction work. The unit requires the person to demonstrate personal awareness and knowledge of health and safety legislative requirements in order to work safely and prevent injury or harm to self and others. It covers identifying and orally reporting common construction hazards, understanding basic risk control measures, and identifying procedures for responding to potential incidents and emergencies. It also covers correctly selecting and fitting common personal protective equipment (PPE) used for construction work.
• UNIT CODE: FWPCOT3301
  • UNIT NAME: Trim trees using a pole saw
  • Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to use a fuel or battery powered pole saw to trim tree branches within safe height and angle limits.
• UNIT CODE: HLTAID011
  • UNIT NAME: Provide First Aid
  • Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a casualty in line with first aid guidelines determined by the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and other Australian national peak clinical bodies. The unit applies to all persons who may be required to provide a first aid response in a range of situations, including community and workplace settings.
• UNIT CODE: HLTAID013
  • UNIT NAME: Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site
  • Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a casualty in a remote or isolated site over an extended period of time until medical assistance is provided, or evacuation occurs.

Ways to Study

• On campus
• Apprenticeships or traineeships

Choose Your Study Location

• Greater Brisbane
• Sunshine Coast
• Wide Bay Burnett
• North Queensland

Campus Information

Grovely

• Study Mode: On Campus
• Start Date: 27 Jan 2026
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time 4 days per week
• What You'll Pay:
  • Concession: $2,400
  • Subsidised: $3,075
  • Full fee: $6,225

Nambour

• Study Mode: On Campus
• Start Date: 14 Jul 2025
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time 3 days per week
• What You'll Pay:
  • Concession: $2,400
  • Subsidised: $3,075
  • Full fee: $6,225

Bundaberg

• Study Mode: On Campus
• Start Date: 14 Jul 2025
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time 3 days per week
• What You'll Pay:
  • Concession: $2,400
  • Subsidised: $3,075
  • Full fee: $6,225

Cairns

• Study Mode: On Campus
• Start Date: 14 Jul 2025
• Duration: 6 months
• Workload: Full time 4 days per week
• What You'll Pay:
  • Concession: $2,400
  • Subsidised: $3,075
  • Full fee: $6,225

Payment Options

• Payment plan
• Upfront payment

Entry Requirements

• There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
• You must have completed year 10 or equivalent.
• If you are under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions apply.

Resources Required

• It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• You will also be required to have access to and bring to class:
  • a light long sleeved shirt
  • long pants
  • protective footwear with safety toe cap and non-slip soles to AS2210
  • safety glasses
  • ear muffs or plugs
  • a sun safe hat
  • sunscreen
  • secateurs
  • rubber dishwashing gloves
  • gardening gloves
  • water bottle
  • 8GB USB

Assessment Methods

• Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course.
• You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning.

Pathways

• University pathways
• If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there.
• In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Related Courses

• Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management
• Upgrade your skills and knowledge of environmental sustainability with this advanced-level course, and make a world of difference in your career.
• Careers:
  • Community Project Coordinator (Land Care)
  • Senior Park Ranger
  • Natural Resource Manager
• Full Time: 1 year
• Next Start: 14 Jul 2025
• Certificate III in Horticulture
• Further advance or enhance your career options in horticulture with this course that will qualify you to work in nurseries and parks and gardens.
• Careers:
  • Nursery Worker
  • Parks and Gardens Worker
  • Horticulturalist
• Full Time: 6 months
• Next Start: 14 Jul 2025
• Certificate III in Nursery Operations
• Apprentices and trainees complete a qualification, learning skills at work and under the guidance of a training provider.
• We will work with you and your employer throughout your apprenticeship or traineeship to develop a training plan, deliver training, assess your achievement of skills and issue your qualification upon successful completion.
• Careers:
  • Production Nursery Tradesperson
  • Vegetable Grower