Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership (CRICOS course code 102655A) is a Certificate III delivered by Compass Rose International College Pty Ltd over 46 weeks (~11 months). This vocational course equips students with practical skills to lead outdoor activities, manage risks, and guide groups in natural environments. It falls under the field of Sport and Recreation (092101) and holds the VET national code SIS30619. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students, ensuring quality education under the ESOS Act. Whether you aspire to become a tour guide, outdoor instructor, or camp leader, this program offers hands-on training in real-world settings. With indicative fees of A$10,846 total, it's an affordable pathway into Australia's thriving outdoor recreation industry. Delivered across two locations in Queensland—Miami and Steiglitz—students benefit from coastal and natural environments ideal for outdoor training. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
This Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership focuses on the field of Sport and Recreation Activities (092101). Students typically learn to plan and lead outdoor recreation activities, conduct pre-activity risk assessments, provide first aid in remote settings, and communicate effectively with groups. The curriculum covers environmental interpretation, navigation techniques, camp management, and equipment use. Graduates develop the skills to work as assistant guides, activity leaders, or outdoor education support staff in various settings such as national parks, adventure tourism companies, and schools. While the exact syllabus is set by Compass Rose International College, the training package (SIS30619) ensures nationally consistent outcomes. Practical sessions are likely conducted in the natural surroundings of the Gold Coast region, leveraging local beaches, forests, and waterways.
The course runs for 46 weeks (~11 months) as a single qualification with no dual qualification or foundation studies. The language of instruction is English. Students are expected to commit to full-time study, typically involving 20-30 hours per week of classes and practical training. This duration includes all learning activities scheduled by the provider. As a VET course, it focuses on hands-on skills development, so attendance at practical sessions at the delivery sites is mandatory. No work component is included, but students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term under their student visa, subject to visa conditions.
The indicative fees for this course are as follows: tuition A$9,997, non-tuition fees A$849, with an estimated total of A$10,846. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For the most current fees, always confirm directly with Compass Rose International College Pty Ltd via their website at http://www.goldcoastdivecentre.com.au. The provider may offer payment plans or scholarships, so it's advisable to inquire during the application process.
For entry into Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership, international students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency at IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications generally include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas schooling. Some providers may require a pre-training interview or a simple skills assessment. Compass Rose International College may also offer foundation or pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. It is essential to check the provider's specific entry criteria on their website or by contacting their admissions office. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places may be limited.
This course has no mandatory work component. While Certificate III programs in outdoor leadership sometimes include an optional industry placement, the CRICOS record for this course explicitly states 'No work component.' This means you will not be required to complete unpaid or paid work as part of the course assessments. However, you are free to seek part-time employment during your studies, subject to your student visa conditions. The absence of a work component may appeal to students who prefer a focused study schedule.
This course is delivered at two locations in Queensland: 2/54-56 Paradise Avenue, Miami QLD 4220 (a suburb of the Gold Coast) and OCEANICO POWERBOATS - 80 Cabbage Tree Point Rd, Steiglitz QLD 4207 (a rural area near the Gold Coast). Miami is well-connected by public transport, with bus services to Surfers Paradise and central Gold Coast. Steiglitz is more remote, likely requiring a car. The Gold Coast is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Living costs in the Gold Coast are moderate: indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is $200–$350, groceries $70–$100, and public transport $40–$60. The region offers ample outdoor recreation opportunities, aligning well with this course's focus.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of your course. Work rights are 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to specific visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire period, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for course fees, living costs, and travel. Living costs are estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student (excluding tuition). For detailed visa requirements, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for this course involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's free search tool to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider (Compass Rose International College Pty Ltd, CRICOS 03464K) and course (102655A) are registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the provider's website at http://www.goldcoastdivecentre.com.au to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, including proof of OSHC, GTE statement, financial evidence, and health insurance. Processing times vary, so apply early.
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Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership is a CRICOS-registered programme at Compass Rose International College 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.