Certificate III in Aquaculture (CRICOS course code 0100603) is a Certificate III delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in aquaculture, a growing field in Australia's agriculture and environmental sector. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in fish farming, hatchery operations, and seafood production. The course is delivered at three campuses in Western Australia: Geraldton, Fremantle, and Beaconsfield, giving students access to marine environments and industry connections. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, including ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to work in aquaculture or pursue further studies, this qualification provides a solid foundation in sustainable aquatic practices.
Certificate III in Aquaculture (CRICOS course code 0100603) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification offered by the Department of Training and Workforce Development, a government-owned TAFE provider (CRICOS 00020G). The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) with English as the language of instruction. It falls under the field of Fisheries Studies (Aquaculture) and has a VET national code of SFI30119. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The indicative tuition fee is A$6,570, with non-tuition fees of A$1,050, totaling A$7,620. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees are not included. For the most current fees, always check the provider's website: www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au.
This course provides practical and theoretical knowledge in aquaculture, covering areas such as fish health management, water quality monitoring, feed management, and harvesting techniques. Students learn to operate aquaculture systems, maintain biosecurity, and apply sustainable practices. The curriculum aligns with industry standards, preparing graduates for roles in fish farming, hatcheries, and seafood processing. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, typical training includes hands-on activities in tanks, ponds, or cages, as well as classroom instruction on aquaculture science and business. This field of education is critical to Australia's growing aquaculture industry, which produces salmon, oysters, prawns, and more. Graduates may also use this qualification as a pathway to higher-level studies in marine science or fisheries management.
The Certificate III in Aquaculture is a full-time course with a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is conducted in English, and the course is a single qualification — not part of a dual or nested program. Study mode is full-time on campus, with no online or distance learning option for international students. The provider may offer flexible scheduling, but students should confirm exact timetables. This duration allows students to gain foundational skills quickly and enter the workforce or continue their education. International students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with student visa conditions.
Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are as follows: Tuition fee: A$6,570; Non-tuition fee: A$1,050; Estimated total: A$7,620. These fees are set by the Department of Training and Workforce Development and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For the most accurate and current fee schedule, always refer to the provider's official website: www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au. Fee payment plans or scholarships may be available; inquire directly with the provider.
For international students, the Department of Training and Workforce Development typically requires an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent, as this is a Certificate III level course. Prior experience in aquaculture or a related field is not mandatory but may be beneficial. Some campuses may have specific prerequisites or recommend foundation studies; always check with the provider. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. For visa purposes, students must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity. No professional year or work experience is required for entry.
This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. While the course itself does not arrange employment, students may seek part-time work independently to gain industry experience and supplement living costs. The provider may offer career services to help students find relevant opportunities. Always check your visa conditions before commencing any work.
The Certificate III in Aquaculture is delivered at three campuses in Western Australia: Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Campus (Geraldton); South Metropolitan TAFE - Fremantle Campus (Fremantle); and South Metropolitan TAFE, Fremantle Campus (Beaconsfield). Geraldton is a coastal city about 420 km north of Perth, with a population of around 40,000. It offers a regional lifestyle with lower living costs compared to Perth. Fremantle and Beaconsfield are both in the Perth metropolitan area, providing access to urban amenities and the port of Fremantle, a hub for maritime industries. Each campus has specific facilities such as aquaculture tanks and laboratory equipment. Students should consider proximity to marine environments and transport links when choosing a location.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: confirmation of enrolment (CoE) from the provider, valid health insurance (OSHC), sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is essential to maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress to keep the visa valid. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. For visa applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Aquaculture at the Department of Training and Workforce Development: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, passport, English test results). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Then apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget to arrange OSHC and prepare for genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment.
Western Australia is a prime location for aquaculture studies, with its extensive coastline and thriving seafood industry. The state produces high-value species such as rock lobster, pearl oysters, and barramundi. Studying here offers students exposure to real-world aquaculture operations, from hatcheries to open-water farms. Geraldton, home to one campus, is a center for marine research and fishing. Fremantle provides access to the Indian Ocean and a port with aquaculture processing facilities. Living costs vary: Geraldton's weekly rent is around A$200-300, while Fremantle/Beaconsfield range A$300-450. Public transport in Perth and Geraldton is available, but a car may be useful for field trips. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, this course stands out for its practical focus and government backing.
Ready to start your aquaculture journey? Explore Certificate III in Aquaculture on HeadStart Academy and connect with the Department of Training and Workforce Development today.
View the full Department of Training and Workforce Development profile →
Certificate III in 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.