Certificate III in Aviation (Ground Operations and Service) (CRICOS course code 103026M) is a Certificate III delivered by Airways Aviation Education Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is ideal for international students seeking entry-level roles in aviation ground operations, including baggage handling, ramp services, and passenger assistance. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00296A), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Students will gain practical skills aligned with the Tourism field of education (080701). The course is delivered across three campuses: Archerfield Airport and Gold Coast Airport in Queensland, and Lismore Airport in New South Wales. With an indicative tuition fee of A$9,980, it offers an affordable pathway into the aviation industry. International students are protected under the ESOS Act and must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This course does not include a work component, but students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. Studying in Australia's aviation hubs like Gold Coast or Lismore provides unique opportunities for hands-on training at active airports. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission fees — helping you compare CRICOS-registered courses. Data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses.
This course falls under the field of education 080701 Tourism (Management and Commerce). At Certificate III level, students learn foundational skills for ground operations, including aircraft handling, baggage management, passenger services, safety and security procedures, and communication within an airport environment. Graduates are prepared for roles such as ground handler, ramp agent, or customer service officer. The curriculum typically combines theoretical knowledge with practical training at airport facilities.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. This is a single qualification with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at one of the three campus locations, with instruction aligned to the VET national code AVI30319.
The indicative fees for this course at Airways Aviation Education Pty Ltd are: tuition fee A$9,980, non-tuition fees A$0, giving an estimated total of A$9,980. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student), and the student visa application charge are NOT included. Fees are subject to change — always confirm with the provider.
The minimum English language requirement for this Certificate III course is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). You should have completed Year 12 or equivalent for entry. Some providers may have additional prerequisites such as a medical or security clearance. For specific requirements, refer to Airways Aviation Education Pty Ltd's admissions page. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help you gain industry exposure and offset living expenses.
The course is delivered at three campuses: - Archerfield Airport Campus, Archerfield QLD - Gold Coast Airport, Bilinga QLD - Lismore Airport, Loftville NSW Archerfield is a suburb of Brisbane, a major city with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Gold Coast Airport is in the tourist hub of the Gold Coast, known for its beaches and student-friendly lifestyle. Lismore is a regional city in NSW, offering a quieter study environment. All campuses are at active airports, providing real-world exposure. Public transport options vary by location; Gold Coast has a light rail and bus network, while Lismore relies on regional bus services.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. OSHC is mandatory for international students — see our OSHC guide. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. As a CRICOS-registered course, you and your provider are covered by the ESOS Act, which protects your tuition fees and ensures quality education. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify that Airways Aviation Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00296A) meets your needs. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through Airways Aviation's admissions portal. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs.
With campuses in QLD and NSW, you can choose based on lifestyle and career goals. Queensland campuses (Archerfield and Gold Coast) are near Brisbane and the Gold Coast — both offer vibrant cities, warm climate, and many aviation industry connections. Lismore in NSW is a regional city with lower cost of living (weekly rent around A$200–300 vs. A$300–450 on the Gold Coast). Consider transport: Gold Coast Airport is accessible by tram and bus; Lismore Airport is a short drive from town. All campuses offer airport-based training. HeadStart Academy's state guides provide more details on living costs and student numbers.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered providers and then applying directly to Airways Aviation.
Certificate III in Aviation (Ground Operations and Service) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Airways Aviation Education 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.