Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 098370G) is a Certificate IV delivered by AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF HIGHER LEARNING PTY LTD over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification sits within the Food, Hospitality and Personal Services field, specifically Cookery (110109), and equips students with advanced kitchen skills, menu planning, and supervisory capabilities. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring you benefit from ESOS Act protections. If you're an international student aiming to work as a chef or kitchen manager in Australia, this course provides a solid pathway. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), so you can trust the accuracy of fees, duration, and provider details. Whether you're drawn to Melbourne's vibrant food scene or seeking a globally recognised qualification, this course offers hands-on training with a 12-week work placement.
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Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS 098370G) is a nationally recognised VET qualification (SIT40516) offered by Australian Academy of Higher Learning (CRICOS 02924F), a private provider. The course is delivered full-time in English over 78 weeks, including a mandatory work component. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not serve as a foundation studies program. Students will learn advanced cookery techniques, kitchen management, food costing, and workplace safety. The field of education (11 - Food, Hospitality and Personal Services) ensures a strong focus on practical skills demanded by Australia's hospitality industry. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses nationwide, this course stands out due to its industry-aligned curriculum and Melbourne location.
This Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery covers advanced culinary skills including preparing complex dishes, managing kitchen operations, designing menus, and leading teams. Students gain expertise in food safety, nutrition, and sustainable practices. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to work independently as a chef or supervisor in restaurants, hotels, or catering businesses. The course integrates theory with practical sessions, building on prior knowledge from Certificate III level. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, graduates exit with competencies aligned to Australian industry standards. HeadStart Academy recommends reviewing the full syllabus on the provider's website.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (78 weeks) on a full-time basis. All instruction is in English. It is a single qualification — no dual or nested awards. Students attend classes at the provider's campus in North Melbourne, with a mix of classroom learning and kitchen practicals. The duration includes a 12-week work placement (see Work Component section). International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions. The CRICOS register confirms the course length, so you can plan your study timeline accordingly.
Tuition fee: A$16,000 (total indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total course cost: A$16,000. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For 2026, living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year (including rent, food, transport). OSHC costs around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian Academy of Higher Learning as prices are subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall band of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) and successful completion of a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or relevant industry experience. Academic requirements vary — contact the provider for specific entry criteria. Foundation or pathway options may be available; consult the provider directly. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the institution assesses each application. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate English proficiency as per Department of Home Affairs standards.
This course includes a mandatory 12-week work placement (20 hours per week, total ~240 hours). This industry placement typically occurs in commercial kitchens, restaurants, or hospitality venues, allowing you to apply skills in real-world settings. It is an integral part of the qualification, counted towards course completion. The placement is supervised by the provider and may be arranged in partnership with local employers. This practical experience not only builds your resume but also meets the training requirements for the Certificate IV. Check with Australian Academy of Higher Learning for placement support and hosting arrangements.
Classes take place at 34 Steel Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051. North Melbourne is a vibrant inner-city suburb just 2 km from Melbourne's CBD, with excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses). Melbourne has over 130 CRICOS-registered providers and is home to a large international student community. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly lower than Sydney; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–A$300, with groceries A$80–A$120. The campus is close to restaurants, markets, and cultural hubs, making it ideal for cookery students.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity. Visa conditions include: work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course will be issued upon acceptance. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and ensures education quality. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to start your Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery at Australian Academy of Higher Learning:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses like this one. Filter by level (Certificate IV), field (Cookery), and location (Victoria) to compare options. All providers on our site are CRICOS-registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Meet the entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications). Submit your application through Australian Academy of Higher Learning's admissions portal. Provide certified documents and proof of English proficiency. Deadlines vary — check with the provider.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application online. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine intention to study. For visa assistance, seek a MARA-registered agent.
Contact Australian Academy of Higher Learning to discuss your application and secure your place in the Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery.
View the full AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF HIGHER LEARNING PTY LTD profile →
Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF HIGHER LEARNING PTY LTD. 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.