Diploma of Hospitality Management (CRICOS course code 090981A) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students seeking to build supervisory and management skills in the hospitality industry. Based in Adelaide, South Australia, the course covers operational management, leadership, and service excellence. TAFE SA is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00092B) with a strong reputation for vocational training. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to manage a hotel, restaurant, or event venue, this diploma provides a pathway to higher qualifications or direct employment.
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The Diploma of Hospitality Management (090981A) is a nationally recognised qualification (VET national code SIT50416) offered by TAFE SA. It falls under the field of education 080319 – Hospitality Management (Management and Commerce). This level 5 diploma prepares students for roles such as restaurant manager, catering manager, or motel manager. The course is delivered entirely in English and does not include a mandatory work component. Students graduate with skills in financial management, marketing, human resources, and operational planning specific to hospitality. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the course duration is 26 weeks, with indicative tuition fees of A$5,875 and no non-tuition fees listed. Note that fees are subject to change; always confirm directly with TAFE SA. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, hosts over 30 CRICOS-registered providers and offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$300–A$400.
This diploma covers core hospitality management competencies. Students learn to manage finances, implement marketing strategies, oversee staff performance, and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety regulations. Topics include budgeting, roster management, customer service strategies, and food and beverage operations. While the exact syllabus is set by TAFE SA, graduates typically demonstrate the ability to lead teams, solve operational problems, and drive business performance. The course is aligned with the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Training Package. Assessment methods may include projects, case studies, and practical simulations. As a field, hospitality management in Australia is growing, with strong demand for skilled managers in hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
According to CRICOS data, the Diploma of Hospitality Management runs for 26 weeks (~6 months). It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies) and is instructed entirely in English. TAFE SA offers this course with a face-to-face delivery mode at the Regency Park Campus. There is no online or distance learning option listed. Students are expected to attend classes full-time to meet student visa conditions. The duration is fixed; however, some students may take longer if enrolled part-time, but student visa holders generally must maintain full-time enrolment. The course is not a packaged qualification, but it can lead to further study options at TAFE SA or other providers.
Indicative tuition for this course is A$5,875, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$5,875. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that fees are set by TAFE SA and are subject to change. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses – Australia requires at least A$29,710 per year for a single student (as per Department of Home Affairs); visa application charge – currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500. For the most current fee schedule, visit the TAFE SA international website: http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international. Adelaide’s cost of living is relatively affordable, with weekly expenses (rent, food, transport) estimated at A$350–A$550 for a student budget.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Equivalent English tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English are usually accepted – check with TAFE SA. For this diploma level, a minimum of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is expected. Some providers may require prior study in a related field or work experience. Foundation or pathway options are not directly listed for this course; however, TAFE SA offers English language courses and other preparatory programs. Always confirm specific entry requirements directly with the institution. Note that meeting academic requirements does not guarantee admission; you must also satisfy visa criteria including Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) and financial capacity.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions. While the course does not include placement, practical experience may be beneficial for future employment. Students can seek part-time jobs in Adelaide’s hospitality sector, which has a vibrant café and restaurant scene.
Diploma of Hospitality Management is delivered at TAFE SA's Regency Park Campus, located in REGENCY PARK, SA, a northern suburb of Adelaide. The campus is accessible by public transport, including bus routes and the Outer Harbor railway line (Regency Park station is nearby). Adelaide has a well-connected tram and bus network, making commuting easy. The city itself is home to around 1.3 million people and is known for its festivals, food markets, and affordable lifestyle. Other TAFE SA campuses across South Australia offer various courses, but this specific course is only at Regency Park.
International students enrolled in this course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE SA; Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement; sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC; English proficiency. While on a student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Post-study work rights may apply depending on further study. OSHC is mandatory for the visa duration; typical costs range from A$500–A$700 annually for single cover. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Hospitality Management at TAFE SA: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare providers like TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B) and their offerings. 2. **Apply directly to TAFE SA** – Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application via TAFE SA's international admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and a GTE statement. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once TAFE SA issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you can apply for a Subclass 500 visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you also arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Adelaide is a welcoming city for international students, offering a high quality of life and lower living costs than Sydney or Melbourne. It has a strong hospitality industry, with many restaurants, hotels, and event venues. Public transport is reliable, and the city is known for its safety and multicultural community. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, you have many study options. However, Adelaide’s job market is smaller than larger capitals, so networking and part-time work may require initiative. Consider your preferences for climate (Mediterranean) and lifestyle. The city hosts annual events like the Adelaide Fringe Festival and Food & Wine Festival, providing real-world exposure to hospitality.
Hospitality management requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a passion for service. Graduates can work in hotels, resorts, cruise ships, or restaurants. The industry in Australia is growing, with tourism and events driving demand. This diploma can also articulate into a Bachelor of Business (Hospitality) at some universities. However, work hours can be irregular, and the pace can be fast. Research the job market in your intended city. Adelaide has a diverse hospitality sector, but senior roles may require further experience. Always choose a CRICOS-registered course for visa compliance and ESOS protections.
Ready to start your hospitality journey? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to TAFE SA.
Diploma of Hospitality Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.