Turn your heavy vehicle experience into a nationally recognised qualification. If you already service, diagnose, repair, and maintain trucks, prime movers, buses, trailers, road transport vehicles, or heavy commercial vehicles, you may be able to achieve the Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120) through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualification Code | AUR31120 |
| Qualification Name | Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology |
| Assessment Method | Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) |
| Qualification Type | Nationally Recognised Qualification |
| Training Package | AUR Automotive Retail, Service and Repair Training Package |
| Suitable For | Experienced Heavy Vehicle and Diesel Mechanics |
| Recognition | Australia-Wide |
| Industry | Automotive and Transport |
| Career Outcomes | Heavy Vehicle Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Truck Mechanic |
| Further Pathways | Heavy Vehicle Diagnostics, Workshop Management, Automotive Leadership |
AUR31120 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology RPL is a Recognition of Prior Learning pathway that allows experienced heavy vehicle mechanics to gain a nationally recognised qualification based on workplace experience.
The qualification recognises competencies developed through heavy vehicle servicing, diesel engine repairs, brake system maintenance, driveline repairs, steering and suspension work, electrical diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and vehicle inspections.
Through RPL, eligible applicants can have their skills assessed against nationally recognised competency standards without repeating training in areas where competency can already be demonstrated.
The qualification reflects the trade skills required to maintain and repair heavy commercial vehicles used across Australia’s transport, logistics, mining, construction, and infrastructure sectors.
Yes.
AUR31120 is a nationally recognised qualification within Australia’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) system.
The qualification is listed on training.gov.au as part of the AUR Automotive Retail, Service and Repair Training Package.
When issued by an authorised Registered Training Organisation (RTO), the qualification is recognised throughout Australia.
The qualification aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
Yes.
Experienced heavy vehicle mechanics may achieve AUR31120 through Recognition of Prior Learning if they can demonstrate competency against qualification requirements.
RPL focuses on:
Many mechanics already perform these responsibilities every day in workshops, transport depots, mining operations, and fleet maintenance facilities.
Many heavy vehicle technicians gain their skills through years of practical experience.
A nationally recognised qualification helps formalise those skills and demonstrate competency to employers, fleet operators, transport companies, and maintenance contractors.
Professionals commonly pursue AUR31120 to:
| Benefit | Outcome |
|---|---|
| National Recognition | Qualification recognised throughout Australia |
| Skills Recognition | Existing trade experience formally recognised |
| Career Development | Supports heavy vehicle career progression |
| Employment Opportunities | Demonstrates trade competency |
| Time Efficiency | No need to repeat existing skills |
| Professional Credibility | Nationally recognised qualification |
| Further Study Pathways | Supports advanced automotive qualifications |
You may be eligible if you have experience servicing and repairing heavy commercial vehicles.
Common applicants include:
Experience gained in Australia or overseas may be considered.
There is no fixed number of years required.
Eligibility depends on:
Professionals who regularly maintain and repair heavy vehicles often possess competencies aligned with qualification requirements.
Relevant experience may include:
Experience may come from:
Maintain trucks, trailers, and transport fleets.
Service passenger transport vehicles.
Maintain site vehicles and heavy transport equipment.
Service heavy commercial and support vehicles.
Maintain public transport and fleet vehicles.
Service manufacturer trucks and commercial vehicles.
The qualification develops practical heavy vehicle trade skills.
Key competency areas include:
These skills support safe and effective maintenance of heavy commercial vehicles.
| Occupation | Suitable |
|---|---|
| Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | ✓ |
| Diesel Mechanic | ✓ |
| Truck Mechanic | ✓ |
| Fleet Maintenance Technician | ✓ |
| Bus Mechanic | ✓ |
| Workshop Technician | ✓ |
| Mobile Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | ✓ |
| General Labourer | Usually No |
AUR31120 includes units covering heavy vehicle servicing, diagnostics, repair procedures, diesel systems, workplace safety, and mechanical technology.
| Unit Code | Unit Name |
|---|---|
| AURASA102 | Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace |
| AURAEA002 | Follow environmental and sustainability best practice in an automotive workplace |
| AURETR112 | Test and repair basic electrical circuits |
| AURHTD104 | Diagnose and repair diesel engines |
| AURHTD106 | Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle braking systems |
| AURHTD107 | Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle suspension systems |
| AURHTD108 | Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle steering systems |
| AURHTD109 | Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle driveline systems |
| AURHTD110 | Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle transmission systems |
| AURTTA121 | Diagnose complex system faults |
Note: Unit packaging requirements may vary. Refer to training.gov.au for current qualification information.
| Feature | AUR31120 | AUR40216 |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Level | Certificate III | Certificate IV |
| Focus | Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Trade Skills | Advanced Diagnostic Skills |
| Primary Role | Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | Diagnostic Specialist |
| Scope | Servicing and Repairs | Complex Fault Diagnosis |
| Career Outcome | Qualified Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | Senior Diagnostic Technician |
AUR31120 focuses on trade-level heavy vehicle repair and maintenance, while AUR40216 focuses on advanced diagnostic procedures and fault analysis.
Recognition of Prior Learning continues to grow as experienced tradespeople seek formal recognition of workplace skills.
Several factors contribute to increased demand:
Many experienced mechanics already perform trade-level work but do not hold a formal qualification.
Australia relies heavily on road freight, logistics, mining, agriculture, and construction industries.
Demand is influenced by:
Qualified heavy vehicle mechanics play a critical role in keeping Australia’s transport network operating safely and efficiently.
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia.
Maintain freight vehicles and transport fleets.
Support fleet maintenance and operational reliability.
Maintain site trucks and heavy transport vehicles.
Service heavy commercial and support vehicles.
Maintain buses and passenger transport fleets.
Support local council, state, and federal vehicle maintenance operations.
The timeframe depends on:
Many applicants complete the process within several weeks after submitting the required documentation.
Assessment costs vary according to:
A pre-assessment helps determine eligibility and applicable fees.
| Job Role | Industry Sector |
|---|---|
| Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | Transport and Logistics |
| Diesel Mechanic | Mining, Construction and Transport |
| Truck Mechanic | Commercial Vehicle Maintenance |
| Fleet Maintenance Technician | Transport Operations |
| Bus Mechanic | Public Transport |
| Mobile Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | Field Service Operations |
Heavy Vehicle Mechanics commonly earn between $85,000 and $140,000+ per year depending on industry, location, overtime arrangements, and experience.
FIFO roles, mining positions, and remote area maintenance roles may attract higher salaries.
| Job Role | Typical Salary Range* |
|---|---|
| Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | $85,000 – $120,000+ |
| Diesel Mechanic | $90,000 – $140,000+ |
| Truck Mechanic | $85,000 – $120,000+ |
| Fleet Maintenance Technician | $90,000 – $130,000+ |
| Mining Heavy Vehicle Mechanic | $120,000 – $180,000+ |
*Salary ranges vary by employer, industry, roster arrangements, and location.
Sources:
AUR31120 supports progression into advanced technical, supervisory, and management positions.
Common career pathways include:
Diagnose complex mechanical and electronic faults.
Coordinate technicians, maintenance schedules, and workshop operations.
Manage fleet servicing and maintenance programs.
Oversee workshop performance and customer service outcomes.
Manage maintenance teams and fleet reliability programs.
Yes.
Many professionals continue into:
Develop advanced diagnostic and fault-finding capabilities.
Additional pathways may include:
We assist eligible heavy vehicle professionals throughout:
Many experienced workers choose Care Connect Training Institute because of its commitment to quality assessment and candidate support.
Assessors understand heavy vehicle maintenance, diesel systems, and transport industry requirements.
Guidance is available throughout the assessment process.
Clear evidence requirements help applicants understand what is required.
Qualifications align with Australian training standards.
Assessment practices follow applicable vocational education and training requirements.
Get recognition for your skills and experience with our simple four-step process
Connect with RPL Fast Track to discuss your career goals, and let us assist you in identifying the qualifications that will enable you to achieve them.
Gather and prepare evidence of your prior learning, work experience, and relevant skills. This includes documents such as qualifications, work samples, employment records, and references.
After you submit your portfolio, one of our affiliated registered training organizations (RTOs) will evaluate it. If the assigned assessor requires more information, they will contact you. If any skill gaps are identified, the RTO may provide a trainer to help you enhance your skills at no cost.
Care Connect works with Registered Training Organizations to provide nationally recognized qualifications in Australia. These qualifications are equivalent to those obtained through full-time studies and can also be used for licensing applications.
These are the key documents you'll need to submit for your RPL application.
Includes documents like your passport, driver’s licence, Medicare card, or visa that add up to 100 points of identification.
Copies of your school, college, or training certificates like diplomas, transcripts, or qualifications.
Details about your past jobs—what you did, where you worked, and what skills you used or learned.
Extra documents that help your RPL case, like reference letters, photos, or work samples.
Yes. Relevant overseas experience can be assessed if it aligns with Australian industry competency standards.
Yes. Diesel mechanics working on trucks, buses, transport fleets, construction vehicles, or heavy equipment often have experience that aligns with AUR31120 requirements.
Yes. Truck servicing, diagnostics, repairs, preventative maintenance, and fleet support are directly relevant to this qualification.
Hear from individuals who have successfully qualified through our RPL services.
"Care Connect Training Institute" is not an RTO or a CRICOS registered organization. Our mission is to guide students in selecting the right course and college based on their future goals and needs. The information we provide regarding education providers and their specific courses and qualifications—whether via our website, email, live chat, in person, or over the phone—is intended for general guidance and should not be considered professional advice. Relying on the information we share is solely at your own risk. We offer our services at no cost to you and always strive to connect you with the appropriate provider to receive accurate information about the courses they offer.