Certificate III in Horticulture (CRICOS course code 092538D) is a Certificate III delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 1 year. This qualification, governed by the official CRICOS register, equips students with practical skills in horticulture—from plant care and propagation to landscape maintenance. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE (CRICOS 01985A) is a government provider based in Mildura, Victoria, a prime location for outdoor and agricultural learning. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are guaranteed ESOS Act protections. With an indicative tuition fee of A$14,000 and entry requiring IELTS 5.0-5.5, this program is ideal for those seeking hands-on training in Australia's horticulture sector. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed choice.
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Certificate III in Horticulture (CRICOS course code 092538D) is a Certificate III delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 1 year. This course sits at AQF Level 3 and falls under the field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies (05), specifically Horticulture and Viticulture (0503). The VET national code AHC30716 underpins the curriculum. The program is designed to provide foundational and intermediate skills in horticulture, including plant identification, soil management, pest control, and workplace safety. Graduates may pursue roles such as horticultural assistant, garden technician, or nursery worker. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the qualification is recognised across Australia. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, a government provider with CRICOS 01985A, has a long history of vocational training in regional Victoria. Mildura, with its warm climate and agricultural economy, offers a unique environment for hands-on learning. International students benefit from the ESOS framework, ensuring quality education and consumer protections. This course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may seek part-time work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term under their student visa.
The Certificate III in Horticulture covers a broad range of theoretical and practical topics aligned with the Horticulture field of education (050301). Students learn plant biology, propagation techniques, irrigation systems, and sustainable horticulture practices. The curriculum includes units on workplace health and safety, environmental sustainability, and communication in the workplace. While the exact syllabus is set by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, typical learning outcomes include: applying fertilisers and soil conditioners, maintaining garden areas, operating machinery, and identifying plants. This level (Certificate III) prepares graduates for supervisory roles or further study at diploma level. Practical sessions are conducted at the Mildura campus, which features dedicated horticulture facilities. The program emphasises real-world skills in a hands-on environment, reflecting Australia's strong agricultural and horticultural industries. Students also develop English language proficiency and cross-cultural competencies.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. Delivery is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The study mode is typically full-time, face-to-face at the Mildura campus. As an international student, you'll need to maintain a full-time study load as per visa conditions. The duration allows for intensive theoretical and practical training. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE may offer flexible timetables; contact the institute for details. Studying in Mildura also offers a balanced lifestyle with lower living costs compared to major cities. The campus is accessible via public transport. Remember, headstartacademy.com.au provides this information as a free resource; always confirm details with the provider.
Indicative fees for Certificate III in Horticulture at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE are: tuition A$14,000, non-tuition fees A$0, estimated total A$14,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fees and potential scholarships, visit the provider's website at www.sunitafe.edu.au. Living costs in Mildura are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$150–200, groceries A$80–100, and public transport A$30–40. Budget accordingly. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; all financial decisions should be made with up-to-date information from official sources.
English language: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Year 12 or equivalent; some practical experience may be beneficial. No foundation studies option is offered. For specific academic requirements and any prerequisites, always refer to Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. Applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. English test alternatives like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted—check with the provider. If you need to improve your English, consider pathway programs. Remember, entry requirements are set by the institution and may change. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are conditioned on maintaining course enrolment and satisfactory attendance. While the course itself has no placement, students may seek voluntary work or internships in the horticulture industry to gain experience. Mildura's thriving agricultural sector offers seasonal work opportunities, especially in fruit picking and vineyard management. Always comply with visa work conditions and ensure work does not interfere with studies.
This course is delivered at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE - Mildura, located in Mildura, Victoria (VIC). Mildura is a regional city in northwestern Victoria, known for its Mediterranean climate, irrigation-based agriculture, and proximity to the Murray River. The campus is accessible by local bus services. Mildura has a population of about 50,000 and a growing community of international students. Living costs are moderate, with shared accommodation around A$150–200 per week. The region is a major producer of citrus, grapes, and almonds, providing a real-world context for horticulture studies. Only this one delivery location is listed on the CRICOS register for course 092538D. Studying in a regional area may offer additional visa benefits, such as longer post-study work rights. For transport and campus facilities, visit the provider's website.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Mildura's cost of living is lower than in metropolitan cities, so budget estimates can be more modest. The visa application fee (currently A$710 for the main applicant) is not included in course fees. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) for visa matters.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Horticulture at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (Sunraysia Institute of TAFE: 01985A) and confirm the course code 092538D.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Review entry requirements (including English test scores and academic qualifications). Prepare your documents (transcripts, passport, English test results) and submit an application before the deadline. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE may have intake dates multiple times a year; check their website.
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 a visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include your OSHC evidence, financial documents, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant statement. For visa assistance, contact a registered migration agent.
Mildura offers a unique study environment for horticulture students. As a regional centre in Victoria, it provides lower living costs, a tight-knit community, and abundant outdoor activities. The city is home to several CRICOS-registered providers, but Sunraysia Institute of TAFE is the only one offering this specific course. Mildura's economy is driven by agriculture, making it a practical learning ground. However, students should consider the warmer climate and smaller city lifestyle compared to Melbourne or Sydney. Public transport is limited, so many students cycle or drive. Weekly rent is around A$150–200, and part-time work is available in hospitality and farming. For those seeking a quieter, hands-on study experience, Mildura could be ideal.
Horticulture is a hands-on field that suits students who enjoy working outdoors and with plants. Australia's agricultural sector employs thousands of workers, and there is demand for skilled horticulturists. However, the work can be physically demanding and seasonal. Consider your interest in sustainability and environmental management. Certificate III is entry-level; you may need further study (e.g., Diploma) for advanced roles. CRICOS-registered providers like Sunraysia Institute of TAFE ensure quality training. Check the provider's facilities, graduate outcomes, and support services. Also, understand that regional study may affect your post-study work visa options. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses objectively.
Ready to start your horticulture journey? Explore more courses in Victoria or contact Sunraysia Institute of TAFE directly. Use HeadStart Academy to compare over 26,000 CRICOS courses.
Certificate III in Horticulture is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. 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.