Diploma of Aquaculture (CRICOS course code 0100601) is a Diploma delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the aquaculture industry, covering fish and shellfish farming, hatchery operations, water quality management, and business skills. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00020G), Department of Training and Workforce Development is a government institution offering this course at multiple campuses in Western Australia. The course code 0100601 is your key to verifying this program on the official CRICOS register, ensuring you choose a legitimate pathway to study in Australia.
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The Diploma of Aquaculture falls under the field of Fisheries Studies (050701) within Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies. At AQF Level 5, graduates are expected to have specialist knowledge and skills for skilled work or further learning. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, typical coverage includes aquatic animal health, feed management, breeding and hatchery operations, farm infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and business planning. Students engage in practical and theoretical learning, preparing them for roles such as aquaculture farm manager, hatchery technician, or consultant. This course is ideal for those passionate about sustainable seafood production and marine conservation.
This course is registered on CRICOS as 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at one of the delivery locations. The course structure is designed to meet the requirements of the AQF and industry standards. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per their Student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for the Diploma of Aquaculture, sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, are: tuition A$13,140, non-tuition fees A$1,564, estimated total A$14,704. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the Department of Training and Workforce Development website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/). Living costs in Western Australia vary: weekly rent for a single person in Perth is around A$200–400, groceries A$80–150, and public transport will depend on location (students in Geraldton, Fremantle, or Beaconsfield may have different costs). Budget accordingly.
While specific entry requirements are set by the provider, a Diploma generally expects completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. English language proficiency is typically required at IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Students may also need to demonstrate relevant work experience or prior study in a related field. For foundation or pathway options, contact the provider directly. All international applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for visa purposes.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Remember that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and work cannot interfere with study.
The Diploma of Aquaculture is delivered at three locations in Western Australia: Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Campus (Geraldton, WA); South Metropolitan TAFE - Fremantle Campus (Fremantle, WA); and South Metropolitan TAFE, Fremantle Campus (Beaconsfield, WA — note: this is a separate campus in Beaconsfield, a suburb of Fremantle). Geraldton is a coastal city about 4 hours north of Perth, with a population of ~38,000, and is a hub for regional aquaculture. Fremantle and Beaconsfield are in the Perth metropolitan area, with good public transport (train and bus) from Perth CBD and surrounding suburbs. Choosing a campus depends on your preference for regional vs. city lifestyle. Each campus offers hands-on training facilities relevant to aquaculture.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements: maintain enrolment at a CRICOS-registered provider, maintain satisfactory course progress, hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa, and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Financial capacity must be demonstrated: tuition fees, living expenses (minimum A$21,041 per year), OSHC, and travel costs. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (may change). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight when course is in session, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. All visa conditions are subject to Department of Home Affairs rules. Consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personal advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Diploma of Aquaculture at Department of Training and Workforce Development: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify the course code 0100601 and provider code 00020G. Filter by course level, field (Aquaculture), and city (Geraldton, Fremantle, or Beaconsfield) to confirm your preferred campus. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Department of Training and Workforce Development website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/) for application forms, entry requirements, English test details, and deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), passport copy, and any relevant experience. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs (ImmiAccount). Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine intention to study.
Western Australia offers a unique environment for aquaculture studies. With a long coastline and major aquaculture industries (pearls, finfish, shellfish), WA provides real-world opportunities for practical training and employment. Perth, the state capital, has a diverse student population (over 50,000 international students from 150+ countries). The state has 23 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 1,500 courses. Living costs in WA are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, but vary by location. Geraldton offers a regional lifestyle with lower costs, while Fremantle and Beaconsfield provide city amenities and easier access to part-time work. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals when choosing a campus. Remember, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (as at April 2026) — you have options across the country.
Ready to start your aquaculture career? Check your eligibility and apply through the Department of Training and Workforce Development website.
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Diploma of Aquaculture is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.