What Is a Cert 3 in Makeup?
A Certificate III in Make-Up (Cert 3 Makeup, or Cert III Makeup) is a government-recognised qualification delivered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in Australia. It's the standard entry-level credential for makeup artists who want a formal, nationally recognised qualification — typically taking 6–24 months through TAFE or a private RTO.
Bela Beauty College does not offer a Cert III — we're not a government RTO, and we won't pretend to be. What we offer instead is an industry-recognised certification through the Aesthetic Beauty Industry Council, a full makeup kit shipped to your door, and business training built to get you earning fast. If you specifically need a Cert III for a workplace or visa requirement, an RTO is the right path. If you want to work as a makeup artist and start earning as quickly as possible, keep reading.
What Does a Cert 3 Makeup Typically Cover?
Course content varies by provider, but a standard Cert 3 Makeup curriculum covers:
- Skin analysis and preparation
- Day, evening and special occasion makeup
- Bridal and formal makeup
- Airbrush application
- Corrective and camouflage makeup
- Client consultation
- Workplace health and safety
- Business basics for freelance artists
Bela's Makeup Artistry Course covers the same practical ground — bridal, everyday, special occasion and colour theory — plus a heavier focus on the part most Cert III courses skim over: how to actually find clients, price your work, and run a profitable freelance business.
How Bela's Certification Is Different From a Cert III
| Cert III Makeup (RTO) | Bela Makeup Artistry Course | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Registered Training Organisation (government-recognised) | Bela Beauty College, certified by the Aesthetic Beauty Industry Council |
| Format | Mostly in-person or blended, fixed terms | 100% online, self-paced, start anytime |
| Duration | 6–24 months | As little as 3–6 months, self-paced |
| Kit included | Varies by provider | Yes — a full kit shipped to your door |
| Business training | Limited, varies by provider | Built into the course |
| Best for | Roles that legally require a government qualification | Starting or growing a freelance or business-based makeup career fast |
How Long Does Bela's Makeup Course Take?
Because it's self-paced and online, most Bela students complete the full course in 3 to 6 months studying consistently — a fraction of the 6–24 months a Cert III typically takes through TAFE or a private RTO. You work through video training and practical assignments on your own schedule, submitting photo and video evidence for tutor feedback as you go — the same way most working freelance makeup artists actually operate.
How Much Does Makeup Training Cost in Australia?
- TAFE Cert III: government-subsidised places in some states, from $0–$3,000 depending on eligibility
- Private RTO Cert III (in-person): $2,000–$6,000+
- Bela Beauty College Makeup Artistry Course: AUD $2,400, kit and business training included, with payment plans available
Is a Cert 3 — or Bela's Certification — Worth It?
If you want to work professionally as a makeup artist, some form of recognised training is worth it:
- Credibility: clients and agencies expect trained, certified artists, especially for bridal and commercial work
- Insurance: most professional liability insurers require evidence of training — check your specific insurer's requirements before you decide which path to take
- Skill depth: proper training covers skin, colour theory and technique at a level YouTube tutorials don't
- Career pathways: opens doors to salons, sets, agencies or your own freelance business
The real question isn't "Cert III or nothing" — it's speed. If you want to be booking paying clients in months, not years, Bela's course gets you there faster, with the business skills a Cert III usually leaves out.
How to Get Started With Bela Beauty College
- Browse the Makeup Artistry Course
- Check what's included — no prior experience needed
- Choose your payment option
- Start studying immediately — no term dates, no waitlist
Enrol in the Makeup Artistry Course →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bela Beauty College a Cert III or RTO?
No. Bela Beauty College is not a government Registered Training Organisation and doesn't issue a Cert III. Our Makeup Artistry Course leads to an industry-recognised certification through the Aesthetic Beauty Industry Council, plus a full kit and business training — built for people who want to work and earn fast, not spend a year or two in a classroom.
Do I need any experience to enrol in the Makeup Artistry Course?
No. It's designed for beginners — no prior makeup experience required.
Can I work as a makeup artist without a Cert III?
Yes. There's no legal requirement to hold a Cert III to work as a makeup artist in Australia. What matters to clients and insurers is that you've completed genuine, recognised training — which Bela's course provides.
How is the Bela Makeup Artistry Course assessed?
Through practical assignments — you submit photos and video of your work for tutor feedback as you progress through each module.
Can I study part-time while working?
Yes — the course is fully self-paced. Most students study evenings and weekends around existing work.
