Certificate II in Aquaculture (CRICOS course code 0100606) is a Certificate II delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 26 weeks (~6 months). This entry-level qualification is designed for international students seeking foundational skills in the aquaculture industry, covering finfish and shellfish production, hatchery operations, and aquatic environmental management. Delivered at two Western Australian campuses—Geraldton and Fremantle—this course provides hands-on training in one of Australia's fastest-growing primary sectors. As a CRICOS-registered government provider, Department of Training and Workforce Development offers international students access to quality vocational education and ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to work in aquaculture farms, hatcheries, or research facilities, this certificate sets the stage for further study or entry-level employment.
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The Certificate II in Aquaculture falls under the field of education 050701 - Aquaculture (within Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies). At AQF Level 2, graduates typically gain practical skills in aquatic animal husbandry, water quality monitoring, feeding and harvesting, and basic biosecurity measures. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider (Department of Training and Workforce Development), common learning outcomes include operating aquaculture systems, maintaining stock health, and applying workplace health and safety procedures. This qualification aligns with the national VET standard SFI20119, ensuring industry recognition across Australia.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes full-time at the chosen campus. Given the practical nature of aquaculture training, students should anticipate a mix of classroom theory and hands-on fieldwork. The single qualification structure allows students to focus entirely on building aquaculture competencies without additional academic prerequisites.
Course fees shown are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Certificate II in Aquaculture, tuition is A$6,570, with non-tuition fees of A$415, for an estimated total of A$6,985. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. Living costs in Western Australia vary; for example, in Perth (close to Fremantle), indicative weekly rent for a single bedroom apartment is around A$300–$450, groceries A$100–$150, and public transport A$40–$60. In Geraldton, costs are generally lower. Always confirm current fees directly with the Department of Training and Workforce Development on their official website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/) before applying.
International students must meet English language requirements set by the provider. While these vary, typical IELTS scores for Certificate II level range from 5.5 to 6.0 overall. Applicants should also have completed Year 10 or equivalent (Australian schooling) or possess relevant work experience. Specific academic prerequisites and English proficiency benchmarks are determined by Department of Training and Workforce Development; we recommend checking their website for the most current criteria. Foundation study pathways may be available for students who do not yet meet entry standards—consult the provider for options.
This course has no work component. It does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Gaining casual work in the aquaculture sector or related fields can complement practical learning.
Certificate II in Aquaculture is delivered at two campuses in Western Australia: - Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Campus — Geraldton, WA (regional coastal city, population ~40,000; key aquaculture hub) - South Metropolitan TAFE - Fremantle Campus — Fremantle, WA (south of Perth, vibrant port city with easy access to Perth's amenities) Geraldton offers a quieter, regional study experience with lower living costs, while Fremantle provides proximity to Perth's international community and diverse student life. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Western Australia hosts over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year as per 2026 guidelines), and travel. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund rights. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to secure your place in Certificate II in Aquaculture at Department of Training and Workforce Development: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the HeadStart Academy course finder to filter by course level (Certificate II), field (Aquaculture), and city (Geraldton or Fremantle). Verify the provider is CRICOS-registered (00020G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Department of Training and Workforce Development's website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/) to review entry requirements, prepare your English test results (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE—use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs.
Western Australia offers a unique blend of strong economic growth, especially in resources and agriculture, and a relaxed lifestyle. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, WA hosts major universities and TAFE colleges. The cost of living in Perth is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, while regional areas like Geraldton are even more affordable. Public transport in Perth is reliable (Transperth system), and Fremantle is well-connected by train. International students in WA enjoy a multicultural environment, beautiful beaches, and a gateway to the state's stunning natural wonders. However, consider the distance from other Australian capitals and the climate (hot summers, mild winters). Studying aquaculture in WA gives you direct exposure to a key industry sector, with opportunities for practical placements and employment.
Ready to start your aquaculture journey? Visit the Department of Training and Workforce Development's website to apply for Certificate II in Aquaculture (0100606) today!
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Certificate II 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.